Our Story

Bourkies Bakehouse is a country-style bakery and cafe where you can grab a quick bite to eat or sit and savour your coffee and cake. Established in Woodend in 1989, we've seen thousands of locals, Victorians and international visitors through our doors. Most have become friends, and we're now fondly referred to us as 'Bourkies'.

Adam Bourke started Bourkies Bakehouse after learning the bread and pastry trade. He has a passion for baking, and under his leadership, we make pies, cakes, bread, pastries and beverages. Over time we've become renowned for our old-fashioned cakes and catering for events and special occasions. On top of this, we're also most famous for our multiple award-winning vanilla slice.

Passers-by know they can get quick service. You can eat-in or takeaway without a long wait, and the streamlined flow manages the steady daily trade for breakfast, lunch and morning/afternoon teas. Bourkies Bakehouse operates seven days a week, and weekends are consistently busy. Our cafe allows for 30 people seated inside and 16 outside.

From an original staff of 12, the business has grown to now employ 42 staff, including 11 full-time and 31 part-time. Since 1989 more than 200 Woodend residents have been employed in retail, production, administration and cleaning roles.

Some visit for the pies, others for the long johns, no matter the reason, you're sure to receive speedy service and tasty bakery fare at Bourkies.