In the heart of Melbourne city, you’ll encounter an iconic symbol that ties deeply into the Aboriginal culture. This symbol is the great Bunjil, revered and respected by the Kulin Nations, which comprises of five indigenous tribes who lived around present day Melbourne. According to the indigenous people’s ancient narrations, Bunjil is their spiritual ancestor, their creator. He is depicted as an enormous eagle who soars the skies, watching over his people with sharp, paternal eyes.
Bunjil crafted the lands, the humans and gave them the lore – the laws they were to abide by for a harmonious existence. He formed the mountains, forests, rivers and all life within; even the sacred Yarra River was supposedly carved by the talons of his eagle form. Bunjil then created the Kulin people out of the earth and air, teaching them the skills and wisdom necessary for survival.
One popular story tells of the day when Bunjil, satisfied with his creations, departed from the earthly realm. After ensuring his people would respect his lore, Bunjil and his two dingoes transformed into an eagle and two stars. They then ascended toward the sky, where they exist to this day. The giant eagle seen in the sky is Bunjil, and the two brightest stars on the Southern Cross are his dingoes.
These legends of Bunjil are still told and retold today, bearing significant cultural and spiritual importance within the indigenous community of Melbourne. They underpin their connectivity to the land, sky, and nature, forging an unbroken link between the past, present and future generations.