The Post-Australia Day Briefing: Big Dreams for the Foreshore and Celebrating Local Legends

The Morning After a Harbour-Side Celebration

Good morning, Wollongong. As the city wakes up on this Tuesday, January 27, there is a tangible sense of communal pride and relaxation in the air. Yesterday’s Australia Day festivities at Wollongong Harbour saw thousands gather for the 26th edition of the MMJ Aquathon and a day of family fun. Despite concerns over ocean swells that mirrored the New Year’s Eve cancellation, the city’s contingency planning paid off. The 9pm fireworks were successfully launched from Flagstaff Hill, lighting up the sky and providing a triumphant end to the long weekend for those gathered at Belmore Basin and Osborne Park.

A Glimpse into the Future: The $17 Million Game-Changer

The primary talking point across the Illawarra this morning is the massive redevelopment plan for our sports and entertainment precinct. Just before the long weekend, the NSW Government unveiled a $17 million commitment to progress the next stage of planning for a world-class upgrade to WIN Stadium and WIN Arena. The center-piece is a brand-new state-of-the-art arena that will nearly double its capacity—from 5,300 to 9,500 seats. This "once-in-a-generation" investment is expected to generate roughly $550 million in economic activity by hosting up to 150 events annually, cementing Wollongong as a premier destination for major concerts and sporting fixtures.

Celebrating Our Own: 13 Illawarra Residents Honored

In a major feel-good story for the region, 13 of our neighbors have been recognized in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List. Among the recipients is Helensburgh’s Gary Laker, who was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal for nearly 50 years of service with the Stanwell Park Bush Fire Brigade. Gary, who joined the brigade at just 14 years old, admitted he was "speechless" at the news. Another standout is Samara Abbott, manager of the Wollongong Community Corrections Office, who received the Australian Corrections Medal for her transformative work in improving workplace culture and outcomes for Aboriginal clients. These honors remind us of the incredible depth of dedication within our community.

What’s on Today in the Gong

As we transition back into the post-holiday routine, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy the summer weather and school holiday programs:

• Guided Summer Cultural Canoe Tour: For those seeking a serene morning, a 14-seat canoe tour is taking place on the Kangaroo River, featuring Indigenous storytelling and local treats.
• Dungeons & Dragons Crawl: Teens can head to the Dapto Library from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm for a standalone adventure hosted by an experienced Dungeon Master.
• Voices of Insight Exhibition: Visit the Wollongong Library to view this moving photographic exhibition documenting lived experiences of adversity and resilience.
• Sunset Cinema: Enjoy the warm evening with an outdoor movie experience at the Botanic Garden, starting at 7:00 pm.