Wollongong

Adorned by rainforest-covered escarpment and the stunning golden beaches of the South Coast, NSW’s third-largest city is a fun, vibrant and delicious urban centre that offers diverse appeal. Dial up the adventure by going skydiving, playing golf or cycling, or discover beautiful botanic gardens, relaxed cafes and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene.

Wollongong is located just south of Sydney and the drive takes around 90 minutes. For the scenic option, journey via the Grand Pacific Drive. You can also catch the train from Sydney, which also takes around 90 minutes.

Port Kembla is a working industrial port and cruise ships dock at a dedicated terminal. Because of this, it’s considered a ‘closed port’ and you can’t walk around the area. A free shuttle bus meets the cruise ships and takes passengers into the city centre, where they will be met by friendly local ambassadors. You can also book a taxi or private car.

(Words courtesy of Visit NSW)

Articles within the Wollongong area

the illustrator who came to stay

When Felicity Gardner moved to Shellharbour, it unlocked a new source of inspiration - the Illawarra itself.

last drinks

Hearing the word ‘pub’ in Australia evokes a classic image; the local watering hole that welcomes one and all to indulge in a crisp cold beer. This is the world that Noni Hazlehurst draws audiences into in The Lark.

shop smart, shop local

Sick of filling your trolley with grocery “specials” that don’t feel special at all? Take control of your spend (and where it ends up) by supporting the Illawarra’s local providers.

ISSUE NO. 31: WINTER 2026

everyone’s a local

Bulli’s main street is home to pretty much anything you could need, from butchers to bakers. While not quite the candlestick maker, the Heritage Hotel might be an even better find; a pub that welcomes all.

a centenary of stories

In 2026, celebrated the centenary of the first auction of the 280 blocks of land in Werri Beach. This was an initiative of local dairy farmer James Muir Miller. The development was certainly ahead of its time as it was marketed primarily to prospective buyers from Sydney as a holiday destination.

all killer, no filler

WAH-WAH Australia is a Knitwear brand that walks the walk and talks the talk, designer Kaylene Milner shares the muses and the message behind the merino wool.

a local café by day, a global taste of India by night

Samina and Baljinder’s Helensburgh café transforms each evening into a vibrant celebration of Northern Indian flavours.

a brilliant musical

Few stories feel as intrinsically Australian as Miles Franklin’s literary classic My Brilliant Career, yet this new musical adaptation proves that even the most familiar narratives can evolve into something startlingly fresh.

meet lee robinson

Behind our Issue 30 cover is Lee Robinson — a Wollongong photographer with a fresh eye for the familiar.

ISSUE NO. 30 : AUTUMN 2026

ISSUE NO. 06 – FAMILY

meet ethel hayton

Imagine hosting a supper party for an entire orchestra in a flat so small you have to bring guests in waves because that’s the only way to fit them inside. You’ve got champagne taste, a beer budget, and absolutely no shame about it. That was Ethel Hayton. She was unapologetically theatrical, wildly determined, and absolutely dedicated to shaping (and let’s be honest – setting up!) Wollongong’s arts and cultural scene.

ISSUE NO.01 : WEDDING 2024

YEAH THE GIRLS

In the digital age, businesses can seemingly set up shop anywhere. That’s what makes Thames Street in West Wollongong, home to six female-owned businesses, special.

choose your own adventure

With unique food and wine pairings, Park Road Wine is the latest spot in Bulli to enjoy a summer spritz.

still sailing strong

After weathering eight years of storms, shutdowns and shifting tides, Thirroul’s South Sailor has found its sea legs – emerging as a local favourite for fresh, coastal fare.

working class anthem

Indie rock quartet Pacific Avenue have been turning heads in the Australian music scene since 2017. Their latest single, Working Class Hero, is a heartfelt tribute to their hometown of Gerringong. We sat down with Ben to chat about their upcoming album, sharing the stage with their idols and the summer festival season.