Dee Kramer is a multi-award-winning landscape photographer based in the Illawarra region of New South Wales. He has built a remarkable collection of images capturing the beauty of Australia’s natural landscapes, from the Illawarra and Southern Highlands to the Far South Coast, Canberra, Tasmania, and beyond. Driven by a deep appreciation for the outdoors, Dee’s…
The Wollongong Visitor Centre Souvenir and Gift Shop offers a curated selection of locally made products and unique gifts that highlight the beauty of Wollongong and celebrates Indigenous Aboriginal Culture. Visitors can explore a variety of items, including a wide range of souvenirs, artwork, clothing, and local gourmet treats. The shop features products sourced from…
This is Booderee, or in the local Dhurga language, Walawaani Njindiwan Njin Booderee. Booderee is home to one of Australia’s most stunning national parks. Crystal-clear waters meet beautiful white sand beaches, while high cliffs and historic relics overlook the majestic Pacific Ocean. Booderee National Park features extraordinary native wildlife and is adorned with expansive botanic…
Gumaraa is an Aboriginal cultural experience and education company that delivers authentic Indigenous experiences for all, based on the traditions of the Dharawal and Yuin Nation. The programs and tours serve to immerse and educate the wider community on Indigenous culture, traditions and history. Feel the land and its stories and experience the oldest surviving…
Coomaditchie United Aboriginal Corporation (CUAC) is a place where culture, creativity, and community come together. Located in the heart of the Illawarra, we invite you to visit, connect, and learn. Their art space showcases powerful works by local Aboriginal artists—each piece telling stories of Country, culture, and community. You’ll find original artworks alongside thoughtfully made…
At Saunaus, they have curated a haven dedicated to the ancient practice of hot and cold contrast therapy. As tensions dissolve and your body finds solace, the sauna becomes a sanctuary where time slows down, and deep relaxation takes center stage. But Saunaus offers more than just the embrace of heat. Venture into their invigorating…
Experience sweeping coastal views and discover the deep cultural significance of Bass Point Reserve through the self-guided Cultural Walk. Along the trail, a series of interpretive signs share the rich history of First Nations presence in the Shellharbour region, offering insights into how the land was used and respected for thousands of years. The walk…
Discover the Historic Homestead at Bundanon. Visitors can step back in time at the historic Homestead, where the interiors have been faithfully restored to reflect the era of Arthur and Yvonne Boyd, when the property served as both a family home and a creative sanctuary. Inside, guests will find an impressive display of original works…
Bundanon is many things. An art museum embedded in the landscape. A wildlife sanctuary set on 1000 hectares. A gift to the Australian people. The vast array of experiences at this South Coast art destination means every visitor’s journey here will be different. Embedded in the landscape, the award-winning Art Museum and Bridge for Creative…
The Early Start Discovery Space is the world’s first dedicated children’s museum based on a University campus. As an interactive, public access and playful learning venue, the Discovery Space is dedicated to embracing diverse communities to experience the power and importance of play, interaction and connection. The Discovery Space provides interactive experiences, stimulating, evidence informed…
9:00am – 3:00pm, Sat 18th November 2023 – Sun 19th November 2023 The Wollongong Makers Market is a gathering of creators of artisan goods, showcasing their unique and wonderful work at the UOW Innovation Campus in North Wollongong. The market features a variety of handmade items such as jewellery, pottery, blacksmithing, fine art, sewing, knitting,…
8:00am – 3:00pm, Fri 19th August 2022 – Fri 9th August 2024 The Crown St. Markets is a bustling hub of Wollongong’s best independent growers, food producers, designers, makers, artists and creative entrepreneurs.They’re open every Friday it’s the best, place to come together and experience the energy of the area.
The market boasts over 90 bespoke stalls at the iconic location in the Northern suburbs of the Illawarra. It is a great place to meet family and friends, grab a coffee and delicious pastry, and enjoy the market day vibe. With plenty of parking at this location, pony rides, a Face painter and a sand…
10:00am – 2:00pm, Sun 5th November 2023 – Sun 3rd December 2023 Experience the charm of a delightful country market featuring a selection of locally sourced honey, jams and preserves, salamis and a selection of deli goods, unique arts and crafts, plants and fresh flowers, Aboriginal Art, Tarot readings, competitions and lots more. Come and…
Sat 28th January 2023 – Sat 25th November 2023 Welcome to Boutique Market Day at The Wentworth 10km South of Wollongong on the Iconic Wentworth St, Port Kembla. The Wentworth is a relaxing urban sanctuary set in a beautiful outdoor courtyard of artists, designers, creatives and makers. The Wentworth Markets are on the Last Saturday…
Look no further than the mouth-watering delights of our local street food scene! Whether you’re craving savoury or sweet, vegan or carnivorous, we’ve got it all – and so much more. Our talented food vendors serve up a diverse range of fresh, flavourful fare that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest palate. From locally-sourced ingredients…
Held the first Saturday of every month, this boutique market is focused on your holistic health, environmental sustainability and happiness! In addition to our range of specially selected stalls is an Art Gallery and free Tai Chi/Meditation/Mindfulness classes. They also host a range of workshops and demonstrations throughout the day. Enjoy supporting local stallholders whilst…
Nestled within Wollongong Town Hall, The Music Lounge is a premium venue with a rotating schedule of world-class performers and events, from comedians and musicians to dance events and festivals. Run by the not-for-profit Merrigong Theatre Company, which produces and curates diverse entertainment across theatre, dance and the arts, The Music Lounge showcases incredible talent…
Walk or cycle the Lake Illawarra Art Trail to explore local history, Aboriginal heritage, flora and fauna. The artworks were created by local artists in collaboration with the community in response to the lake, its history and its people. The local artists use natural and fabricated objects and various techniques such as woodcarving, painting, mosaic…
Come aboard The Picnic Train – a living museum on rails. This is travel as it used to be – a little slower and a lot more fun! Their dedicated and talented volunteers are from a wide range of backgrounds and come from far and wide with just one thing in mind – to provide…
The Lighthouse Church has been serving the people of the Illawarra for 5 decades, establishing itself as an integral part of the community. They have a number of community initiatives, venues to hire, courses available to enrol in and are the perfect place to visit if you are looking to grow your faith – they…
Discover more about the Illawarra’s history and museums at Lost Wollongong, including the Wollongong Museum Trail. Join the Lost Wollongong Facebook group and you’ll be part of 50,000 members sharing photos and memories for everyone to enjoy. Find out more at www.lostwollongong.com
Take a journey into the Illawarra’s past on the Wollongong Museum Trail. Wollongong is home to a diverse range of museums that highlight all aspects of the region’s history and more: Illawarra Museum Wollongong – Shellharbour City Museum – Black Diamond Heritage Centre Bulli – Illawarra Light Railway Museum – Australian Motorlife Museum – HARS…
Just 13 minutes’ drive south of Wollongong centre you’ll discover the Green Connect Farm. On the beautiful 11-acre farm, they use organic principles to produce abundant harvests of fruit, vegetables, herbs, eggs, honey and free-range meat. Green Connect hosts visitors to the farm for a range of fun and educational activities. They run a weekly…
The Northern Illawarra region has long been known for its art. Many fine artists have gravitated to the area due to its natural beauty, from the bush of the Royal & Dharawal national parks, to the magnificence of the landscape of the Illawarra Escarpment all surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. Come immerse yourself in the…
The considerable changes in technology, developed alongside the motor vehicle from 1880 – have changed the way we live. The museum proudly embraces this technology and provides a showcase of many of these items alongside the vehicles of the period! The museum hosts 3000 square metres of display area and is the second-largest museum and…
Destination Wollongong and the Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation (IAC) have initiated a tourism Attraction that promotes and informs visitors of the people, places and stories of the Dharawal Country. The principal element of the Dharawal Country Experience is Dharawal Country, a new nine-screen video screen array that will display bespoke videos, telling the history, culture and…
Helensburgh Library is a cosy and welcoming space on the main street of Helensburgh, just a short stroll from local shops. An inclusive and safe space, the Library is home to a collection of books, films, magazines and music, with free technology and internet access, and friendly expert staff on hand. The Library hosts events…
Your Library, your place. The largest library in Wollongong’s northern suburbs, the spacious and light-filled Thirroul Library is located with the Thirroul District Community Centre and adjacent to local shops and cafes. An inclusive and safe space for everyone, the Library is home to an extensive collection of books, films, music and magazines, with free…
An inclusive and safe space for everyone, Dapto Library is located on level one of the Ribbonwood Centre, in the town centre adjacent to Dapto Showgrounds. A much-loved community hub, the Library is home to a large collection of books, films, music and magazines, with free technology and internet access, and friendly expert staff on…
Your library, your place. An inclusive and safe space for everyone, Warrawong Library is located on level one of a retail complex on the corner of King and Hoskins Sts, just south of Darcy Wentworth Park playing fields. A welcoming community hub, the Library is home to a large collection of books, films, music and…
Your Library, your place. An inclusive and safe space for everyone, Unanderra Library is located on the southern end of the township, next door to the Unanderra Community Centre. A small but much-loved community hub, the Library is home to a collection of books, films, music and magazines, with free technology and internet access, and…
Your library, your place. Situated within the Corrimal District Community Centre, Corrimal Library is a spacious, light-filled and much-loved space in the heart of the town centre, adjacent to local shops and the Corrimal Heated Swimming Pool. An inclusive and safe space for everyone, the Library is home to a large collection of books, films,…
Whether it’s a copy of the latest novel, free internet, a comfy spot to escape the weather, or learning a new skill, Wollongong Library is your place. An inclusive and safe space for everyone, Wollongong Library is spread over two floors of the Wollongong City Council building in the heart of Wollongong’s CBD. The Library…
What began in 1972 as a provider of music education with classes run out of a local church building in the mall, the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music has become an icon of the community. For over 50 years, WollCon has been changing people’s lives through music. Thousands of musicians – of all ages and backgrounds…
Since 1975, MCCI has been working to deliver services and programs that promote equity, harmony, and social inclusion, and that build community capacity. Our vision is for a cohesive multicultural society that embraces, celebrates and values diversity. Recognised by Multicultural NSW as a regional peak body, MCCI’s deep connections to the community are strengthened by…
Bulli Rock Pool and toddlers’ pool are overlooked by a stunning headland, with popular beachside cafes nearby. It’s also just a short walk from Bulli Tourist Park. The rockpool dates back to the 1930s and sits against the cliff on the headland with sandy beaches to either side. Waves breaking against the wall of this…
Clifton School of Arts is a unique Victorian landmark with spectacular ocean views. Clifton School of Arts is a historic building, superbly positioned just south of the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge in Clifton New South Wales. This much-loved institution has served the local community as a cultural and events facility for over 110 years. With…
The Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation (IAC) is an Aboriginal community-controlled, not-for-profit organisation. Based in Port Kembla and working across the region, we are driven to achieve excellence in providing advocacy and culturally appropriate services to meet the needs of the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Their shared vision is to live in a just,…
Step into the world of early settlers and unravel the rich tapestry of local history at the Illawarra Museum Wollongong. Discover the latest addition to the museum – cutting-edge voice-activated technology that brings some displays to life. The Illawarra Museum proudly presents an extensive collection of furniture and artifacts originating from the Wollongong region. This…
Science Space is the only dedicated, immersive science experience in New South Wales where anyone, young and old, can come and discover hands-on exhibits and exciting events that spark curiosity and a passion for science in all ages. Founded on the principles of education, hands-on learning and accessibility to all, Science Space boasts over 90…
Project Contemporary Artspace is open to the public and has art exhibitions with artworks for sale throughout the year. It is a not-for-profit, artist run initiative operated by a management committee made up of volunteers. The Gallery was originally opened in 1995 by three local artists who recognised the need for artists of the Illawarra…
Merrigong Theatre Company manages the Wollongong Town Hall which is the city’s key civic and community venue and is located within Wollongong’s Arts Precinct. It comprises four meeting and performance spaces, including the 824-seat main auditorium. Smaller rooms are able to accommodate 30 to 270 people. The Wollongong Town Hall is suitable for a variety…
Wollongong Central is located in the beautiful Illawarra and is the leading retail/lifestyle destination in the region. Wollongong Central is home to leading brands such as David Jones, H and M, Target, Coles, Rebel, Anaconda, JB Hi-Fi Home, Mecca Maxima and over 220 leading specialty retailers. Plus, enjoy the array of wonderful eateries from which…
Located on Dharawal Country, Wollongong Art Gallery is one of the largest regional art museums in Australia. Entry is free and they welcome everyone to visit the Gallery. There is a range of exhibitions, events, activities, and workshops designed for all ages and abilities. Wollongong Art Gallery is a service of Wollongong City Council.
Wollongong Harbour’s Breakwater lighthouse has been inactive since 1974 (a decorative light is displayed on special occasions). It stands 12 metres (40 feet) high and has a tapered round wrought iron tower with lantern, painted white. The lighthouse was seriously deteriorated before a restoration in 1978 and 1979 stabilised its condition. In 2000 to 2002,…
The 665 metre long Sea Cliff Bridge is a highlight along the Grand Pacific Drive. A drive which takes in 140 kilometres worth of coastal scenery from the Royal National Park, Loftus down to Nowra. The bridge has become an icon to the people of Wollongong and the world, once again welcoming tourists annually to…
Port Kembla Beach is regarded as one of Wollongong’s most prestigious beaches. It is located approximately 11 kilometres south of Wollongong CBD. The surf club was established in 1910, with bathing at Port Kembla Beach dating back to the 1900s and the first dressing sheds erected in 1912. The surf club is perched on the…
Experience the awe of Nan Tien Temple, a must-see destination in Wollongong. Where towering Buddha statues, vibrant temple halls, lotus ponds, and sweeping gardens create an atmosphere of peace and wonder. Just 90 minutes south of Sydney, it is the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere and a State Heritage–listed landmark, recognised for its…
The Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (IPAC) is the region’s premier performing arts complex and is conveniently located in the Wollongong Arts Precinct. It is also home to The Social, a unique café and bar boasting an impressive al fresco space. Merrigong Theatre Company manages the IPAC and presents a variety of professional theatre productions. Visit…
Hill 60 Lookout is reached via a narrow but well formed established walking track and offers spectacular views up and down the coast line. A series of post and rail guards can be found at this interesting and spectacular spot. Just below the lookout are beaches fished commercially by local Aboriginal fishermen up until the…
An aviation museum, located at Shellharbour Airport, is just over one hours drive south of Sydney, providing the unique opportunity to access many aircraft and to see restorations in progress. Highly acclaimed collection of lovingly restored aircraft including: Lockheed Super Constellation Boeing 747-400, City of Canberra – London to Sydney non stop record holder F-111C…
The Breakwater Lighthouse is located at Wollongong Harbour just up from Belmore Basin. It was commissioned in 1872 and the height of the tower is 42 feet (12.8 metres). This now disused lighthouse was initially powered by vegetable oils and in the 1910s by gas. It was a prefabricated structure. A larger, improved lighthouse on…
Belmore Basin played a large part in Wollongong’s early development as a busy seaport. There are tables and picnic facilities, restaurants, cafes and a playground. All overlooking the picturesque harbour, Belmore Basin is studded with lighthouses and Norfolk Island Pines and flanked by golden surfing beaches. Belmore Basin is home to a large fishing fleet…
