Friday the 13th: Why Wollongong is Feeling Lucky Today

The Morning Briefing: Friday, 13 March 2026

Good morning, Wollongong. As we shake off the literal tremors of yesterday and head into a classic Friday the 13th, the city is buzzing with a mix of resilience and excitement. From the racecourse to the rescue shelter, today is about redefining luck in the Illawarra.

The Mood of the City: Shaken, Not Stirred

The primary topic of conversation over morning coffees today is undoubtedly yesterday’s magnitude 4.4 earthquake. Centred near Boorowa but felt distinctly across Wollongong and the wider Illawarra, the tremor provided a startling mid-week wake-up call. While no major damage was reported locally, the event has fostered a shared sense of community as residents check in on neighbours and compare notes on how much their windows rattled. The mood is one of relieved reflection, with a communal sense of gratitude that the region remains safe.

Key Talking Point: The Race for Glory Begins

While some are wary of the date, local racing fans are embracing it as the 2026 Kembla Classic Autumn Carnival officially kicks off today. Kembla Classic Day at the Kembla Grange Racecourse is the headline event, marking the start of a season-long celebration of sport and social connection. Beyond the track, there is a strong sense of local pride following this week’s "Made in the Illawarra" expo at Parliament House, where 21 local businesses and University of Wollongong researchers showcased our region’s leadership in clean energy and manufacturing to the nation’s leaders.

Feel-Good Story: Turning Superstition into Second Chances

Wollongong City Council is challenging the Friday the 13th stigma with a heart-warming animal adoption drive. Dubbed the "CATalyst for good luck," the initiative encourages residents to look past old superstitions and consider adopting one of the many black cats currently in Council’s care. Highlighting the drive is Shadow, a handsome 11-year-old senior cat who is looking for a quiet home to spend his golden years. It is a timely reminder that even on the supposedly "unluckiest" day of the year, there is a chance to change a life for the better.

What to Watch Today

• Weather: Expect a cooler, damp day with a top of 21°C and light rain showers forecast throughout the afternoon.
• Community: The Wollongong Botanic Garden is hosting the "Garden Discovery Buggy Tour" this morning, offering a relaxing way to explore the grounds under the clouds.
• Alerts: Following the recent "Operation Spoiler" traffic blitz, police remain highly visible on regional roads, so keep an eye on your speed and drive to the conditions.