Buckley's Bunyip

Buckley's Bunyip grahamstewartwalker (Atlas Obscura User)

Located in Aireys Inlet, part of the Great Ocean Road resides this magnificent sculpture.

William Buckley was deported from the United Kingdom to Australia as a convict. He was bound for a convict settlement, however, he escaped into the bushland. While hiding in the region barely able to survive, he befriended the local Wathaurong People.

Buckley became immersed in their culture and claimed to have seen a Bunyip on multiple occasions, which is a legendary water monster from Aboriginal folklore. This sculpture stands as a tribute to Buckley’s encounters.

Know Before You Go

The sculpture is located near the entrance to the Allen Noble Sanctuary, a relaxing wetlands-style parkland in Aireys inlet. There is adequate parking near to the sculpture. Well worth a stop, away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular spots on the great ocean road. Visitors can also walk around the wetlands lake and see multiple examples of local wildlife.