Wollongong will be one big party later this month, thanks to Australia Day celebrations that range from a silent disco to a loud explosion of fireworks.
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January 26 will begin with the annual aquathon from 8am, with a jam-packed program of events that stretch along the Blue Mile to follow throughout the day.
There’s plenty on offer, including a silent disco truck, surfing academy, sand sculpture event and mobile laser skirmish – just to name a few. Thousands of people are expected to line the foreshore to witness the 9pm fireworks display explode over Belmore Basin.
Police have reminded partygoers the area is an alcohol-free zone. “We won’t be tolerating any drunken or antisocial behaviour,” Wollongong duty officer Inspector Mark Walker said.
“Australia Day doesn’t give people a licence to harass, intimidate or offend other people.” The city’s 2016 Australia Day Ambassador is Scott Radburn, best known as a member of The Four Kinsmen. Fashion stylist Donny Galella will join Shellharbour’s celebrations.
“It’s a time to celebrate and reflect who we were in the past, our history, who we are today, but most importantly as a multicultural community, a diverse community, who we are together,” Mr Radburn said.
Wollongong Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said the events were a “truly Aussie” celebration.
“The surf, sun and sand … I think Wollongong does it in a very unique way,” Cr Bradbery said.
Getting to Wollongong’s Australia Day celebrations
Bus: Visitors can drive to JJ Kelly Park and catch a free bus between the park and the WIN Sports & Entertainment Centre.
The buses run every 15 minutes from noon until 11pm.
The free Gong Shuttle will run from 6am-11pm, but will be re-routed via Corrimal Street due to road closures.
Car: An overflow car park will be operating at Stuart Park. Parking fees apply and the car park closes at 9.30pm.
Parking is also available at Dalton Park, where you can catch the free Gong Shuttle bus.
Train: North Wollongong is the closest train station. Commuters are reminded trains run to a weekend/public holiday timetable on January 26.
Australia Day road closures
5am to 10.15pm: Marine Drive; Flagstaff Hill; Cliff Road between Marine Drive and Bourke Street; Bourke Street between Cliff Road and Kembla Street; Harbour Street between Smith Street and Cliff Road; Robertson, Hector and Hinton Streets.
5am to 10.15pm: Fish Shop and Inner Harbour.
5am to 10.15pm: No access into Campbell Street from Corrimal Street eastbound .
8.30am to 10.15pm: Crown Street between Harbour Street and Marine Drive; gates to Flagstaff Hill.
Vehicle access passes are mandatory for entry to the event site.
