Official Notice: Australia Day Long Weekend Public Safety and Service Roundup

Intense Heatwave Health Advisory

NSW Health and the Bureau of Meteorology have issued an official advisory as a prolonged and intense heatwave is forecast to sweep across the Illawarra region this long weekend. With temperatures expected to climb significantly on Sunday, 25 January, residents are urged to take proactive measures to prevent heat-related illness. Health officials recommend staying indoors during the peak UV hours, maintaining high fluid intake, and never leaving children or pets in parked vehicles. Community members are encouraged to look out for elderly neighbors and those without air conditioning. If you or someone you know shows signs of heat exhaustion, such as heavy sweating, rapid pulse, or dizziness, seek shade and cool water immediately.

Wollongong Beach Patrol and Water Safety

Peak season patrol hours remain in effect at Wollongong’s 17 patrolled beaches. For Sunday, 25 January, Wollongong City Beach will be monitored by professional lifeguards and Surf Life Saving volunteers from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Due to the forecast heatwave, high crowd volumes are anticipated at all coastal locations. The City Council issues a critical reminder to swim only between the red and yellow flags. Beachgoers should also be aware that lifeguards may close beaches at short notice due to hazardous surf conditions or nearby lightning activity. To ensure a safe environment for all, the consumption of alcohol on public beaches is strictly prohibited.

Advance Traffic Notice: Australia Day Road Closures

While the primary community celebrations are scheduled for Monday, Wollongong City Council has activated traffic notices regarding significant road closures in the Wollongong Harbour and Belmore Basin area. These closures are designed to facilitate event setup and manage the influx of visitors over the long weekend. Residents and visitors should prepare for the closure of Cliff Road, Harbour Street, Hector Street, and sections of Smith and Campbell Streets. Parking in the CBD and foreshore areas will be extremely limited. The public is strongly advised to utilize the Free Gong Shuttle, which connects the city center and the university to the harbour every 10 minutes, or to plan for active transport options such as cycling.

Current Development Applications on Exhibition

Public notices for the following Development Applications (DAs) are currently active. Residents are invited to review the plans and lodge submissions via the Council’s website:

• DA-2026/15: Proposed works at Bellambi Lane, Bellambi. Public exhibition closes 18 February 2026.
• DA-2026/2: Development proposal for Walker Street, Helensburgh. Public exhibition closes 18 February 2026.
• DA-2025/932: Proposed residential changes at George Avenue, Bulli. Public exhibition closes 11 February 2026.

Wollongong Botanic Garden Discovery Tour

The Wollongong Botanic Garden will host a guided Discovery Walking Tour today, Sunday, 25 January. The tour is scheduled to run from 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm, starting from the Murphy’s Avenue entrance in Keiraville. This free service provides participants with an expert-led exploration of the garden’s summer collections and conservation efforts. Participants are advised to wear sun-safe clothing and bring water in light of the current heat advisory.