The Yarra River, which coursing through Melbourne, has long been a source of fascination and inspiration. Its meandering path and tranquil waters have witnessed centuries of history. But long before the city’s foundations were laid, the river was steeped in Aboriginal lore, particularly focusing on a legendary creature: the Bunyip. This story intersects both folklore and zoological intrigue. The Bunyip, reportedly dwelling in the Yarra River, was a central part of Aboriginal mythology. Appearing in different forms across various tribal lore, the Bunyip was often depicted as an aquatic creature or sometimes as a fearsome boogie man. It was often used as a cautionary tale for children to keep away from the river’s dangerous currents. The Bunyip’s appearance remains ambiguous, with descriptions varying from dog-like face, a crocodile-like head, dark fur, a horse tail to flippers and tusks. European settlers in Melbourne grappled with this lore, blending in their own understanding as they sought explanations for the curious animal bones they frequently excavated in the area. There have been various ‘sightings’ reported over the years, contributing to a sense of foreboding ambience around the river as well as fascination with Australia’s unique fauna. However, the Bunyip remains elusive, embodying the peculiar, inexplicable side of Melbourne’s history. While scientific rationale may dismiss the creature as mythology, the Bunyip represents an irreplaceable fragment of Aboriginal cultural heritage, seamlessly fused with the story of a city in its evolutionary journey.