Official Notice: Severe Heatwave Warning and Sunday Service Updates

Public Health Alert: Severe Heatwave Warning

The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a severe heatwave warning for the Illawarra region, active through Sunday, 1 February 2026. Maximum temperatures are expected to reach the low 40s in inland areas and the low-to-mid 30s along the coast. While conditions are expected to begin easing by late Sunday evening, residents are advised to take immediate precautions to manage heat-related risks.

Health officials recommend that community members stay hydrated, minimize physical activity during the peak heat of the day, and utilize air conditioning or fans where available. It is particularly important to check on vulnerable neighbors, including the elderly, and ensure that pets have access to shade and plenty of fresh water. Residents should monitor for signs of heat exhaustion, such as heavy sweating, rapid pulse, and dizziness.

Council Planning and Development Notices

Wollongong City Council has several development applications (DAs) currently on public exhibition. These proposals are open for community feedback and can be reviewed via the Council’s planning portal. Notable applications active this Sunday include:

• Boat Harbour Motel, Wilson Street, Wollongong: Proposed works are open for comment until 9 February 2026.
• George Avenue, Bulli: Residential development proposal open for exhibition until 11 February 2026.
• Bellambi Lane, Bellambi: New development application open for public feedback until 18 February 2026.
• Walker Street, Helensburgh and Dam Road, Wombarra: Both applications remain on exhibition with a closing date of 18 February 2026.

Additionally, Council is seeking formal quotes for a significant infrastructure project involving the reinstatement of the coastal footpath and stairs at 127 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Austinmer. This project aims to remediate damage caused by natural disasters to ensure long-term stability and public safety. Tenders for this work close on 10 February 2026.

Upcoming Council Meeting

Residents are reminded that the first Ordinary Meeting of Council for the month is scheduled for Monday, 2 February 2026, at 6:00 pm. Business to be discussed includes internal reporting updates and the 2026 meeting calendar. Members of the public are welcome to attend the gallery or view the proceedings via the official livestream.

Public Service and Health Notifications

NSW Health continues to maintain a state-wide alert regarding increased measles activity. Residents who have recently returned from overseas or visited transit hubs such as Sydney International Airport are advised to monitor for symptoms, including fever, sore eyes, and a blotchy rash, for up to 18 days after exposure. If symptoms develop, please call ahead to your GP or emergency department before visiting.

Furthermore, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) has announced scheduled maintenance for its website on Sunday, 1 February 2026. The portal and most online services will be unavailable from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm AEDT. The public Register of Practitioners will remain accessible throughout the maintenance period.