Bundaberg mourns the loss of Lee Fleming, iconic brewed drinks co-founder

A pioneering Queensland businesswoman is being remembered for her passion and kindness along with the instrumental role she played in the success of a legendary ginger beer.

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Co-founder Lee Fleming.

The Bundaberg community and beyond is mourning the loss of Lee Fleming, the beloved co-founder of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, who passed away at the age of 82.

Mrs Fleming died at the Friendlies Society Private Hospital on August 8 surrounded by her family.

She left behind a legacy of kindness, community spirit and a remarkable contribution to the region’s business landscape.

Late of Woongarra Scenic Dr, Bargara, and formerly of Rockhampton and Bundaberg, Mrs Fleming was the cherished wife of Cliff Fleming.

She was a devoted mother and mother-in-law to Rae-Lee, John and Michael and Belinda.

As a loving “Ma Lee,” she adored her grandchildren Bronte, Pia, Astor, Eli and Sacha.

Lee was the dearly loved daughter of Arthur and Chris Evans and the cherished sister and sister-in-law of Barry and Marie Evans, Lorraine and Brian Urry, and Ray Fleming, as well as a beloved aunt to their families.

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Co-founder Lee Fleming.

A Bundaberg Brewed Drinks spokeswoman wrote in a statement that the business was sad to announce the co-founder’s death.

“Lee was instrumental in founding Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, brewers of Australia’s favourite ginger beer, in 1968,” it stated.

“Bundaberg Brewed Drinks is now exported to over 60 countries worldwide and is a proud fourth-generation business.

“Lee is survived by her husband, Cliff Fleming, daughter Rae-Lee Fleming, son Michael Fleming, son-in-law John Mclean, daughter-in-law Belinda Fleming and her grandchildren, Bronte, Pia, Astor, Eli and Sacha.”

Bundaberg mayor Helen Blackburn expressed her condolences.

“Lee was certainly a community-minded person,” she said.

“Much loved and will be sorely missed by all who knew her.”

Residents also expressed their sorrow on social media upon hearing the news of the stalwart’s death.

Brenda Barber said Mrs Fleming was an “iconic and admired lady” in the region.

“She had an absolutely beautiful soul, so full of life, happiness, huge smiles, fun, laughter and utter kindness,” she said.

The Fleming family is mourning the loss of wife, mother and grandmother Lee Fleming (front) aged 82.

Janette Dawes reflected on her personal connection with Lee.

“Lee was such a special person to me,” she said.

“We worked closely together for many years.

“She was a very smart, sassy woman whom I admired so much.

“She was more than a work companion to me, though.

“Now a little link in my life’s journey has broken.”

Relatives and friends of Lee and her family are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service to be held in the chapel, ‘Branyan Gardens’, Cummins Rd, Branyan on Wednesday, August 14, 2024 starting at 1pm.

Originally published as Bundaberg mourns the loss of Lee Fleming, iconic brewed drinks co-founder