After stepping away from a long and demanding career in forensic investigations, Phil Bunker set out to explore the remote Australian countryside with his family. One such journey led them to Lightning Ridge — a place of deep personal connection, where his wife had attended school in the 1980s and where stories of adventure and resilience run deep.
After a day spent digging for opal without success, Phil returned to camp as the sun set and rewarded himself by the fire with a glass of whisky. Reflecting on the day, he remarked, “I didn’t find opal, but I found liquid gold.” That moment became the spark — an idea born from exploration, reflection, and reward.
Inspired by the freedom of the outback and the simple ritual of enjoying a great spirit after a hard-earned day, Phil dreamed of creating a distillery that celebrated adventure and craftsmanship in equal measure. Leaving behind a career shaped by darkness and destruction, he chose to pursue something life-affirming: crafting Australian spirits designed to be the reward at the end of the journey.
Bunker Distillery is an Independent, family owned distillery located at Spring Grove, in the Northern Rivers NSW. Bunker spirits are made using traditional distilling methods and real fruit and natural ingredients, delivering vibrant, authentic flavour without compromise— a commitment that has earned industry recognition.
Today, Phil produces award-winning Australian spirits recognised with gold medals and trophy titles nationally and internationally — made to be discovered, shared, and enjoyed as a reward for living adventurously.
Phillip Bunker
Phil Bunker is an award-winning Australian distiller and the driving force behind Bunker Distillery. With a passion for craft spirits and a deep-rooted commitment to excellence, Phil has garnered recognition for his innovative approach to distilling, producing some of Australia’s finest Gins, Agave, Whisky, and other spirits.
Phil’s dedication to the craft is evident in every aspect of his work. He combines traditional distilling techniques with modern innovations, ensuring each product is meticulously crafted to showcase the unique flavours of the Northern Rivers.
Phil is particularly known for incorporating native Australian botanicals giving his spirits a distinctly local character that resonates with both Australian and international drinkers.
Under Phil’s expert guidance, Bunker Distillery has earned multiple prestigious awards, cementing its reputation for quality and creativity. His commitment to small-batch production ensures that every bottle reflects his high standards and attention to detail.
Phil is also a strong advocate for sustainability, using locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices in every part of the distillery’s operation. This dedication to environmental responsibility, coupled with his innovative spirit, has helped Bunker Distillery thrive in a competitive industry.
Phil Bunker’s unwavering passion, craftsmanship, and dedication have not only propelled Bunker Distillery to success but have also made him a respected figure in the Australian distilling community.
His work continues to set new standards in the world of craft spirits.
FAQ’S
At Bunker Distillery, we use locally sourced ingredients, including botanicals from our own land, mineral-rich spring water, and traditional distilling techniques that bring out the best in each spirit. Every batch is crafted with a commitment to quality and a deep respect for the land we call home.
Our small-batch approach means we carefully oversee every step of production. From sourcing to distillation and aging, we’re hands-on throughout the process, ensuring that each bottle meets our high standards for flavour, purity, and craftsmanship.
Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. We aim for zero waste by repurposing by-products through local partnerships, supporting nearby farms, and using environmentally friendly methods wherever possible.
Bunker Distillery’s spirits are inspired by adventure and the wild beauty of Australia. From the outback’s rugged landscapes to the lush Northern Rivers, every bottle reflects a spirit of exploration and discovery. Our goal is to capture that sense of adventure and the essence of Australia in every pour.
