The Big Bunyip
Height
3 meters
Year Built
2010
Address
Gungahlin Town Centre, ACT 2912
The Lowdown
The Big Bunyip in Gungahlin celebrates one of Australia's most fascinating mythological creatures - the bunyip, a fearsome water-dwelling beast from Aboriginal Australian folklore. This impressive sculpture brings the legend to life, depicting the creature that was said to lurk in swamps, billabongs, and waterholes across Australia. The bunyip has been described in various ways throughout history - sometimes as a giant starfish, sometimes as a creature with a dog-like face and a horse's tail. The Big Bunyip captures the mystery and imagination surrounding this creature that terrified early settlers and features prominently in Indigenous Australian oral traditions. Located in one of Canberra's growing northern suburbs, it adds a touch of Australian mythology to the planned city.
Did you know?
"Some researchers think bunyip legends may be based on prehistoric megafauna"
History
The Big Bunyip was installed as part of Gungahlin's urban development, adding local character and a connection to Australian folklore. Bunyip legends date back thousands of years in Aboriginal oral traditions, with the creature described as inhabiting waterways and billabongs. Early European settlers reported sightings, adding to the mystery.
More Fun Facts
- •The bunyip appears in Aboriginal folklore across many different nations
- •Early settlers reported hearing mysterious sounds attributed to bunyips
- •Some researchers think bunyip legends may be based on prehistoric megafauna
- •The word 'bunyip' is thought to come from the Wemba-Wemba language
- •Bunyips were said to make booming or bellowing calls at night
Visiting Tips
- 💡Learn about Aboriginal mythology at the National Museum of Australia
- 💡Gungahlin Town Centre has cafes and shops nearby
- 💡The ACT has many wetland areas that inspired bunyip legends
- 💡Great sculpture for photos with kids who love monsters
- 💡Combine with a visit to Lake Ginninderra
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
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