The Bunyip is said to be a mysterious, mythical creature. But I can tell you right now, bunyips do exist – right here in Leitchville – and they have done for 60 years! 

In 1961 a group of Melbourne and Leitchville men were fishing at the Bunyip Hole on the Edward River. Discussions led to the formation of the Leitchville Bunyip Sporting Club. A club had also been formed in Melbourne and still exists today. Members from Melbourne would visit the Leitchville club and it was not long before the need for a club house was realised. 

Phil Hildebrand’s old shearing shed was transported to the Bunyips’ new patch of land, donated by the Jenkinson brothers. The ‘Bunyip Hut’ was renovated to suit their needs and in 1962 an impressive mural was painted by Christine Hawken, Heather Cherry and Judy Jenkinson. It spans two walls of the hut and depicts indigenous Australians. Even after 59 years you can’t help but stand in awe as you study the artwork. 

Alongside the hut was a clay target installation that satisfied another common interest of both the Melbourne and Leitchville members. No longer used, it was once a popular venue for interclub shoots, raising money for local charities and organisations. The hut is adorned with shields relating to these shooting events. The many photos and honour boards on display in the hut is testament to the club’s appreciation for its members, past and present. Outside is a granite monument remembering members who have passed away from both clubs.

Past and present members gathered at the hut on the weekend to celebrate 60 years of fun, sporting feats and camaraderie. Many a tale was told and the Bunyip ethos is strong. 

In the early days there were camping trips to the Edward River and Barwon Heads. Phil Moore, who originally joined the Melbourne club in 1971 moved to Leitchville to take on the caretaker role in 1995. He explained that the Melbourne Bunyips would host their country counterparts at Barwon Heads, and the Leitchville Bunyips reciprocated, hosting their city counterparts for cod opening on the river. 

Other members reminisced about camping, fishing, clay target shoots, music nights and bunyip calling competitions. It is clear that while the club’s background is sport related, there is a strong theme of camaraderie, and age is no barrier, with members ranging from their 20s to 90s.  Colin Davies said, “I find it absolutely fantastic. Almost a brotherhood of blokes here, it’s really good companionship. There’s always something going on somewhere, someone going fishing. It’s a real good social club, a good social atmosphere.” 

The Bunyips have combined their love of sport with raising funds for individuals and families, and all kinds of community groups and organisations, from the hospital to schools. You may know the Bunyips for their delectable camp oven meals. Noel Schwencke said that at the height of catering at the Cohuna Show they were catering for up to 300 people. In fact, catering has taken them all around the district. Noel estimates that at least $30,000 has been donated to various groups.

President, Trevor West, said, “We do a lot of catering for different things, a lot of volunteer and charity stuff. We give a lot of money to the Cohuna Hospital. We were the first ones to do the catering at the Bridge to Bridge. We have also catered at Barham and Cohuna Shows, North Haven, Murray Haven, Probus Club and the Police and Citizen’s Day.” 

The Bunyips’ main events these days are fishing competitions which are usually well attended by Melbourne members and locals, although cod closing in August last year was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions. Funds raised at these competitions are distributed throughout the Leitchville and Cohuna area. 

This year’s fishing competition will be held as a virtual event in August. Anyone can register and fish from their favourite fishing hole. Details can be found on the Bunyip’s Facebook page.

If your interest in this unique group has been piqued, call the secretary, Ray Heap, on 0428 505 093.