In the shadow of Melbourne’s bustling cityscape bends the meandering Yarra River, a place of great significance to the Aboriginal people who have inhabited the area for thousands of years before European settlement. One tale that encapsulates the history and spirit of the area is the legend of the Bunyip. According to local Aboriginal lore, the Bunyip was a malevolent water spirit that lurked in swamps, billabongs, creeks, riverbeds and waterholes. The name ‘Bunyip’ translates as ‘devil’ or ‘evil spirit’. However, it is considered a very complex creature that cannot be completely understood by human minds, blurring the line between animal and spirit. It has been described as having a canine face, dark fur, a horse’s tail, flippers, and tusks or horns. By night, it was said to let out blood-curdling cries and devour anyone who dared to approach its lair, particularly women, and children who strayed from their camp. The Aboriginal tribes believed the Bunyip was a punisher of those who committed evil deeds, and protector of the wildlife, water sources, and the environment. Despite the fearsome reputation, the story of the Bunyip also carried a crucial educational purpose, teaching tribal members to be wary of the treacherous river currents and the danger of deep waters. The Bunyip serves as a tangible symbol of Australia’s rich and storied Aboriginal heritage, reminding people of the spiritual connection the indigenous people share with the land, and their enduring respect for the environment.