Opinion: Celebrating 60 years of Delightful Choc Beetle Mania

Australia’s Favourite Chocolate Beetle Turns 60

Celebrating a Sweet Milestone

In a country known for its love of chocolate and sweet treats, one snack has stood the test of time and captured the hearts of Australians for six decades. Bertie Beetle, Australia’s favourite chocolate beetle, celebrated its 60th anniversary this year. Created in 1963 by confectionary manufacturer Hoadley’s, Bertie Beetle was born out of a desire to compete with Cadbury’s popular Freddo Frog.

A Chocolate Insect with a Sweet Inspiration

The story behind Bertie Beetle’s creation is as unique as the chocolate treat itself. Inspired by a children’s character from the 1930s, this crunchy beetle was made with chocolate and leftover honeycomb shards that didn’t make it into Hoadley’s famous Violet Crumbles. Combining these delectable ingredients, the confectioners at Hoadley’s created a truly Aussie delight that would soon become a beloved snack across the country.

From Showbags to Store Shelves

As Bertie Beetle made its debut, it appeared in both showbags and stores nationwide. However, it was in 1972 when Tommy Carter, affectionately known as the Showbag King, made an exclusive Bertie Beetle bag that the snack truly became an iconic part of Australian culture. Carter’s goal was simple—to create something affordable and bring happiness to everyone. The bags initially sold for a mere 40 cents, but today, the cheapest ones are priced at $5 per bag.

A Rite of Passage for Show-Goers

With its exclusivity, Bertie Beetle quickly became a rite of passage for show-goers across the nation. The snack disappeared from shop shelves, making it an even more coveted treat—one that was eagerly sought after during show season. At events like the Melbourne Show, Bertie Beetle sales reach their peak, with Chicane Showbags spokesperson Brendan Williams noting they sell “probably a semitrailer’s worth every day or so.”

An Iconic Symbol of Australian Childhood

Over the years, Bertie Beetle has become an iconic symbol of Australian childhood and nostalgia. Its enduring popularity and the joy it brings to people of all ages have solidified its status as a national phenomenon. From its humble beginnings as a small beetle-shaped treat, Bertie Beetle has grown into a cherished part of Australia’s cultural fabric.

Looking Ahead: Embracing Celebration and Nostalgia

As Bertie Beetle celebrates its 60th anniversary, it is a time to reflect on the significance of this chocolate insect in Australian society. Its enduring appeal speaks to our love of nostalgia and the joy that simple pleasures can bring. In a world that often feels complex and overwhelming, embracing moments of celebration and indulging in treats like Bertie Beetle can provide a welcomed respite.

Advice: Embrace the Sweetness of Life

In the midst of our busy lives, it is important to take a step back and appreciate the little things that bring us happiness. Whether it’s indulging in a beloved childhood snack or creating new memories with loved ones, moments of celebration and nostalgia can help us find joy in the everyday. So, let us all raise a bag of Bertie Beetle and toast to 60 years of chocolatey delight—and to many more sweet moments to come.