2008 Pacific School Games Mascot

Bidja the Bunyip

Meet Bidja the Bunyip, the official mascot of the 2008 Pacific School Games. The colourful and playful Bunyip, is a mythical aboriginal creature and has been extremely popular with the Canberra community since its launch in late July.

Extensive research using focus groups from schools around Canberra was undertaken to find a mascot which would portray the undying spirit of friendship during the 2008 Pacific School Games. The name ‘Bidja’ which means ‘mate’ in Wiradjuri, was selected amongst over 900 competition entries.

 

Did you know? 

• Aboriginal legend has it that Bunyips (more commonly known as Yowies) were creatures that lurk in swamps, creeks, waterholes and riverbeds.

• Stories suggest the Bunyip emerges at night principally to prey on women and children as well as animals.  Many white settlers also claimed encounters with the Bunyip.

• It is thought the Bunyip legend originated from the era of 1932, during The Great Depression.

• According to Aboriginal beliefs, bunyips laid large, pale blue eggs larger in size than an emu's.

• There have been reports that Bunyips have been sighted in the Darling Downs, in the Lachlan River, in Midgeon Lagoon, in the Murrumbidgee River, in Lake Alexandria and in the Great Lake in Tasmania. None of these sightings or findings has ever been substantiated.