National Henry the Bunyip Day
22 June 2026
Celebrating all Henry the Bunyips everywhere.
Henry the Bunyip was created more than five years ago. First, he was an idea. Bunyips don’t always get a very good wrap — they are often seen as mean creatures.In the world, there are many types of Bunyips. Some are characters, like Alexander the Bunyip by Michael Salmon. There’s another little Henry who is mentioned in one of Eleana Paige’s books. A Bunyip even comes out of his cave in Murray Bridge.There’s Bunyip Tours, Bunyip Toys, Bunyip Bay (a fictional town in Rachael Johns’ books), Bunyip Soap and Soda Co. from 1890, Bunyip Biscuits, Bunyip Wine, and many more.But then there’s Henry the Bunyip.His namesake is Henry McSwane Rodger, Bunyip’s baker from 1903. Henry was first sketched by an 11-year-old girl named Amelie. Amelie is now continuing her art through beautiful murals. She is a very talented young artist, and her work can be seen along the Gippsland Rail Trail.Next, Henry was sketched sitting forward. I then had the pleasure of working with Jazzie, and together we designed how I wanted Henry to look.
Jazzie’s designs were sent to Budsies, a Florida company that turns drawings into soft toys. One big Henry was made, stories were created, adventures were had, and then Henry was produced in a 25 cm size.My Henry is from the original sample, and more than 150 Henrys have since been made. He has grey fur, bright blue eyes, and a friendly smile. He is a cheerful little fellow who loves hugs.Henry’s lovely jackets are made by his dear friend Queenie (Heather). Thank you for your kindness.Henrys are now found all over Australia and around the world.
Henry lives in the United Kingdom, the United States, Ireland, Japan, China, South Korea, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and most parts of Australia.Jazzie and I then designed the characters for the A to Z book. Drawing each character took time, as we worked to create them exactly as I envisioned them.Jazzie did a wonderful job, and now Henry and his A to Z characters are part of her legacy. Thank you, dear Jaz 🕊️For the Numbers and Colours book, a few of Jazzie’s characters were used, while some new ones were created as well.
Special thanks to BV for her dedication in helping with this book. Her lovely characters are bright, colourful, and friendly.
Henry’s bookmarks and his two books, A to Z and Numbers and Colours, were printed by Bec Ledger at Drouin’s original printers.
As you can see, a lot of effort, creativity, and enthusiasm from many people has gone into the creation of Henry the Bunyip.
today, as we celebrate five years of Henry,
we would like to personally thank everyone who has supported us in any way — whether by owning a Henry or one of his books, contributing to our page, or simply following along on the journey.
Please accept our heartfelt thanks for being part of Henry’s story.
Happy National Henry the Bunyip Day!
#lovealwayshenry ♥️