For more than a century, Chanel No. 5 has been one of the world’s most iconic perfumes. It has graced dressing tables around the globe and was immortalised when Marilyn Monroe famously revealed it was all she wore to bed.
But what is the secret behind its unmistakable scent?
Is it kept under lock and key in a Paris laboratory? Do you need to venture into the deepest jungles of Southeast Asia in search of a rare tropical flower?
Not at all. You simply need to book a ticket on the steam train at the Bundaberg Botanic Gardens.
While lining up to board the Australian Sugar Cane Railway, few realise they’re standing just metres from one of the region’s most unexpected treasures.
Hidden in plain sight beside the station grows a rare ylang-ylang tree. Native to tropical regions including northern Queensland, its sweet, exotic flowers are one of the signature ingredients that helped make Chanel No. 5 so famous.
Created in 1921, Chanel No. 5 revolutionised the perfume industry. Rather than capturing the fragrance of a single flower, it blended dozens of ingredients to create something entirely new.
Among them was the distinctive ylang-ylang flower, prized for its rich, sweet aroma with hints of jasmine, banana and tropical blossoms.
More than a century later, it remains one of the most recognisable fragrances ever created.
The ylang-ylang tree is just as remarkable.
Growing up to 20 metres tall, its elegant green-yellow flowers release their strongest fragrance during the warmer months, filling the air with an unmistakable tropical perfume.
While most people associate the tree with exotic destinations and far-flung islands, Bundaberg locals have the rare opportunity to experience it right here in their own backyard.
Before the whistle blows next spring, take a few moments to wander over and discover this remarkable tree for yourself.
Breathe in the intoxicating fragrance that has captivated the world for generations, then climb aboard the steam train for a leisurely ride through one of Bundaberg’s most beautiful parks.
After your journey, why not make an afternoon of it?
Wander through the Botanic Gardens, enjoy a picnic beneath the shady trees, feed the birds, or simply relax and appreciate one of the region’s favourite green spaces.
Don’t be surprised if your partner falls in love with the fragrance.
Husbands, you may want to budget for one final stop on the way home… a bottle of Chanel No. 5 might suddenly find its way onto the shopping list.
One final piece of advice… unlike Marilyn, we’d recommend wearing a little more than Chanel No. 5 before boarding the steam train.
Published August 2026 Chitchat Newspaper.