The Morning Wave: Beachfront Debates and Creative Spirits Rise in Wollongong

Morning Briefing: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Good morning, Wollongong. As the city wakes up this Tuesday, we find ourselves at a crossroads of summer recovery and future planning. Following a weekend of intense weather and significant local announcements, here is what you need to know to start your day.

The Mood: Resilient Recovery

The city is currently in a state of cautious relief. After a drenching weekend that saw parts of the Illawarra lashed by heavy rain and damaging winds—with some areas recording up to 200mm of rainfall—the weather has finally eased. However, a somber note hangs over the region following the tragic death of a woman hit by a falling branch on Macquarie Pass during the storms. As the SES finishes the bulk of its cleanup calls, the mood today is one of resilience. Residents are busy clearing debris and checking on neighbors, while the sun begins to peek through, signaling a return to more typical summer conditions.

The Talking Point: The Battle for North Beach

The biggest conversation at the water cooler today centers on the North Wollongong Beach Seawall. Lord Mayor Tania Brown officially announced that construction for Stage 2 of the seawall project and the extension of the Emma McKeon Promenade is set to begin in late February. While the project aims to provide essential coastal protection against climate change and storm surges, a local debate has ignited.

• The Project: Construction will replace the aging crib wall between the North Wollongong Surf Club and the Bathers Pavilion with new concrete bleachers and stairs.
• The Concern: Local geotechnical experts have raised questions regarding the "sacrifice" of the sandy beach, estimating that the new structure could extend nearly 10 meters onto the existing sandy area.
• The Vision: This project is part of a broader "A Stronger Wollongong: 2026" vision, which also includes advocacy for a Port Kembla cruise terminal and significant upgrades to the WIN Entertainment Centre.

Feel-Good Story: Unleashing Creativity at the Hive

If you are looking for a reason to smile today, head toward the Wollongong Art Gallery. Today marks a highlight of the Hive Festival, a collaborative arts celebration for young creatives. The gallery is hosting the "Plushie Pals" drop-in workshop from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, where children can design and create their own textile companions. If that’s not enough, Wollongong City Libraries are hosting "Pet Rock" sessions this afternoon, proving that even after a weekend of wild weather, the city’s spirit of play and community remains unshaken.