Illawarra Guides Attractions Events in New South Wales

Discover the rich history of the Albion Park Township. See the relics left behind by the pioneers, and the foundations of the future. The heritage trail starts at the Tongarra Museum in Russell Street Albion Park, where you can pick up a brochure before you begin your journey of the past.

Today Albion Park is an expanding area which holds an appreciation for its historical roots. During November enjoy the launch of the Albion Park Spring Festival and Ball.

Austinmer is a residential and parkland area, thought to be named after Henry Austin, a Director of the Board of the Illawarra Mining Company. It was previously known as Sidmouth, North Bulli and Austermere.

Austinmer is bounded by Lady Fuller Park, Wards Creek, the railway line and the locality of Coledale in the north, the Tasman Sea in the east, the locality of Thirroul in the south and the Illawarra Coast Range in the west.

Major features of the area include Lady Fuller Park, Austinmer Beach, Austinmer Boat Harbour, Austinmer Beach Park and Glastonbury Gardens.

Balgownie is a residential area, with undeveloped areas in the west. Neighbouring residential suburbs are Tarrawanna and Fernhill.

Balgownie was named after a town in Scotland. Founded in 1989, the Balgownie Heritage School Museum aims to preserve the history of the Illawarra through the conservation of artefacts, documents, and photographs of the local area.

Major features of the area include the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area and Balgownie Heritage School Museum.

Berkeley is an established residential area, with a small commercial area. Berkeley is neighbouring suburbs of Unanderra, Lake Heights and is walking distance to Lake Illawarra.

Major features of the area include the Wollongong City Memorial Gardens and Crematorium and Nan Tien Buddhist Temple, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
Wollongong was chosen as the site for the Temple because of the ideal location of Mt Keira and Mt Kembla in relation to the site.

The translation of Nan Tien is Paradise of the Southern Hemisphere. 'Wollongong' also has significance in the way that it is a tribute to a Chinese man of great intelligence named Wollongong.

Bulli is a residential seaside area but also extends to Bulli Tops which situated within the Illawarra Escarpment.

Bulli was thought to be named from the Aboriginal word Bulla or Bulla Bulla meaning two mountains or white grubs. It was previously known as Bull Eye and Bowmans.

Major Features or of the area include the Southern Gateway Centre, Bulli Lookout , Sublime Point, Sandon Point Beach, Bulli Beach, Illawarra Escarpment Conservation Area, Bulli Showground and Racing Complex now holding major events such as the Annual Illawarra Folk Festival.

Bulli Tops is an undeveloped area in the north west area of Bulli.

Bulli Tops is bounded by the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, Bulli Pass Scenic Reserve and access to Bulli Tops is via Princes Highway.

Bulli Tops features the Bulli lookout which has certain facilities such as, picnic tables/facilities, flush toilets, drinking water, cafe/kiosk and lookout viewing point. Major features of Bulli Tops include Bull Pass Scenic Reserve Lookout, Lady Fuller Park and Bulli's lower Escarpment Management Trail for bush walking.

Calderwood Valley is Wollongong's superb public golfing facility. Modelled on the executive style American courses, it has something for every type of golfer. The challenging par 70 layout was designed by McKay and Sons. Each of the 18 holes has its unique features, combining clear creeks, and stunning scenery. The breathtaking surrounds feature the rugged Illawarra escarpment as a backdrop.

The course is open to the public, visitors, or social clubs from dawn till dark every day of the year. Bookings are required for the weekends, and recommended for Fridays. Visitors can book midweek or weekends as far in advance as required.

The club house has food and beverages, club and buggy hire, and pro shop equipment. Groups can take advantage of their large covered gazebo, and picnic area. Being a family owned business, they take pride in their course and the service they provide.

Coalcliff is a rural and residential area, and is known to be one of the first sightings on the east coast coal seam located underneath the Sea Cliff Bridge.

Coalcliff originated in 1797 when survivors of a wreck set out to find Sydney and found coal here which they used to make a fire for warmth. George Bass was sent by Governor Hunter to investigate and found several seams that extended for some distance. The Illawarra coal seams had been observed at Coalcliff as early as 1797.

Major Features of the area are Coalcliff Beach, Coalcliff Coke Works, Sea Cliff Bridge and Coalcliff Rock Baths.

Together with Stanwell Park it belongs to the Little Bulli indentation of the northern Illawarra coast strip.

Corrimal was officially recorded as a place in 1839 when a grant of 50 acres was made to Hugh Kennedy and described as being "at Corrimal".

A point on the range nearby was known as Mount Corrimal after the aboriginal warrior Kurimul" kori-mul).

Corrimal is named from an Aboriginal word "Kurumul", meaning "a dreamtime warrior". It was previously known as Bellambi and Pallamba.

Major features of the area include the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, Corrimal Court Shopping Centre, Corrimal Pool, Corrimal Memorial Park, Mountbatten Park, Robert Ziems Oval and one school.

Dapto is a developing residential area, Dapto is thought to be named from Aboriginal word meaning "water plenty" or "tap toe", used to describe the way a lame Aboriginal elder Walked.

The village of Dapto was once a mining, timber cutting and farming community, and today is a large town with many shops, schools and beautiful parks.

Significant development did not occur until the post-war years. The population has declined slightly since the early 1990s, a result of some new dwellings being added, but a decline in the average number of persons living in each dwelling. Growth is expected in the future due to the West Dapto project.

Major features include Dapto Greyhound Racing Club, Dapto Mall and Parkside Plaza, Dapto Markets every first Sunday of the month located at the showground.

Darkes Forest Land was used mainly for farming, grazing and shale mining. Growth was minimal until the 1880's and 1890's. Coal Mining was established in 1911, with townships growing up around the coal mines.

Major features of the area include Boomerang Public Golf Course, Illawarra Golf Course and Darkes Forest Riding Ranch.

At the northern end a large car park backs the surf club, while a road runs the length of the beach past Bulli Park to the residential area in the south. Good access via walkways is provided the length of the beach.

Fairy Meadow is an established residential, institutional and parkland area.

Fairy Meadow was named to describe the area, with grassed open meadow and stream of fresh water, noted for its "fairy-like" beauty. It was previously known as Para Meadow and Ferrah Meadow. The population was relatively stable during the 1990s, and then increased slightly between 2001 and 2006, a result of new dwellings being added to the area.

Major features of the area include University of Wollongong, (innovation Campus), Science Centre Planetarium, Wollongong Surf Leisure Resort, North Dalton Park, Fairy Meadow Beach and Thomas Dalton Park.

The village of Gerringong is located just 10 minutes south of Kiama. Take Scenic Drive Number Three and see the surrounding farmlands, mountains, the pristine Pacific Ocean and Seven Mile Beach National Park. Spectacular views can be seen from the lookout at Mount Pleasant and native wildlife can be spotted on the six kilometre coastal walk from Werri Beach Lagoon to Love's Bay, Kiama. The Gerringong Village Markets are held on the third Saturday of every month, with local produce, craft and antiques, the markets are one thing you can not miss while in Gerringong. Werri Beach is ideal for surfing, rock pool swimming or beach walks at every time of year.

The village of Gerroa is located just 10 minutes south of Kiama and is surrounded by farmlands, mountains and the pristine Pacific Ocean. South of Gerroa
stretches the magnificent Seven Mile Beach. This spectacular beach is protected within its own National Park and is backed by beautiful stands of grand
forests and other native vegetation.

Spend a day visiting the wildlife refuge, a special habitat for kangaroos, emus, wombats and colourful parrots plus many more of Australia's fantastic native
flora and fauna, or spend the day on the water swimming at Gerroa Beach or hire canoes and paddle your way up Crooked River.

Helensburgh is a rural and residential area, thought to be named after the town in Scotland or after Helen Harper, daughter of the Cumberland Coal Miner's Manager.

It was previously known as Camp Creek. Population was minimal until 1880's spurred by the establishment of coal mining and the construction of the railway line.

The most significant development occurred during the post-war years, with growth from the late 1950s through to the early 1990s. The population has been relatively stable since the mid 1990s, a result of some new dwellings being added, but a decline in the average number of persons living in each dwelling.

Major features of the area include Royal National Park, Garawarra State Conservation Area, Tall Gums Environment Farm, Sri Venkateswara Hindu Temple, Symbio Wildlife Park, Helensburgh Hall, The George Wheen Conference Centre and Uniting Church Camp, Just Cruisin' Motor Cycle Tours and Ultimate Skirmish Paint Ball Centre.

The Illawarra is a key region of Australia, contributing considerable resources to the national economy. Sub-regions: Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven and Wingecarribee.

The Illawarra region is a leading grain and coal exporter, home to the largest integrated steel plant in the Southern Hemisphere, a national centre for metal fabrication and engineering and has emerged as a centre of excellence in advanced technology research and development.

The region also possesses extensive livestock, wood and maritime enterprises, an internationally recognised university, substantial tourism capacity, a population of more than 400,000 and a labour force in excess of 170,000 people.

The region's stunning physical beauty makes it an ideal place to combine outstanding business success with a great lifestyle.

The natural attractions of the region are well supplemented by high standard tourism services and facilities. The region provides a wide range of accommodation, restaurants, entertainment and conference facilities.

Jamberoo is a delightful little village full of history and is a quiet sanctuary close to natural splendours. Jamberoo is surrounded by emerald green pastures
and set against the forested cliffs of the escarpment. Minnamurra Rainforest and Barren Grounds Bird Observatory and Nature Reserve, two of the State's
natural treasures, are both close to Jamberoo. To the west is Budderoo National Park, another wild jewel and the town is also within easy reach of the surf
beaches around Kiama.

'Kiama' is from the Aboriginal word Kiaram-a, to which some sources give the meaning 'where the sea makes a noise' -reference to the famous Kiama Blowhole. The first recorded reference to the district was by George Bass who anchored his 28 foot whaleboat in the sheltered bay (now known as Kiama Harbour) in December 1797.

Cedar getters were the first to the area, among those was David Smith, who became the first permanent white settler, he built a residence in Kiama in 1832. The site of Kiama Township was reserved by the Government in 1826 and proclaimed in 1836. Kiama was proclaimed a municipality in 1859.

In the 1870s the dairying industry was supplemented by basalt (blue metal) quarrying, one of the district's major income earners alongside tourism.

There are many historical buildings in Kiama and a heritage walks leaflet is available at the Kiama Visitors Centre on Blowhole Point.

Kiama Downs is a local township located a few minutes drive north of Kiama. Linked by cycle ways and foot paths to Bombo Beach in the south, and Minnamurra River in the north, Kiama Downs is a scenic and peaceful place.

Just five minutes north of the Kiama township is Jones' Beach, another popular surfing beach featuring a north-easterly aspect. For your safety the beach is patrolled by the local Surf Lifesaving Club.

Pack a picnic lunch and take a walk from Jones' Beach south to the stunning Cathedral Rocks, a distinctive rock formation that has been shaped by years of weathering and erosion. Enjoy the stunning views that this rocky outcrop provides and don't forget your camera as this is a great spot for a picture!

Kiama Heights is a quaint residential community located south of Kiama. It features some of the best views and scenery of the area. Kiama Heights is within easy walking distance of East's Beach, a secluded beach suitable for families and with beautiful views of Marsden Head. The Little Blowhole off Tingira Crescent is a natural wonder not to be missed. Here you can see vigorous sprays of water emanating from a natural rocky cove which reach remarkable heights when the sea conditions are right.

Cast a line off Easts Beach or from the rocks around the Little Blowhole for an incredible fishing experience. For a breath takingly beautiful experience, take the Kiama Coastal Walk from Love's Bay in Kiama Heights to Werris Beach in Gerringong. Experience stunning views of the ocean, rolling hills, sea caves and rock platforms as you walk the six kilometres of coastline.

Lake Illawarra is a large tidal, salt water lake with a surface area of 35 square kilometres and a 37 kilometre shoreline. The Lake is shallow although over 70 per cent of the lake is navigable. Home to flocks of majestic black swans, pelicans, the royal spoonbill and a host of other water birds. The Lake is also a good prawning ground.

One of the best family outing locations is Reddall Reserve, offering plenty of picnic and bbq facilities, which make it an ideal and safe playground for the families.

On the shores of Lake Illawarra is the Illawarra Yacht Club, host to the National Sailing Titles and the Windsurfer Class World Championship.

Minnamurra, which means 'plenty of fish' in the local Aboriginal language, is an area of exceptional natural beauty in the north of the Kiama region.

The Minnamurra River winds down the Illawarra escarpment through the rainforest and Jamberoo Valley to the sea. The mouth of the river creates a perfect spot for snorkelling or fishing. From there, it is just a short kayak across to Mystics, a beach famous among the surfing community.

Enjoy lunch at the local cafe or take a picnic lunch to one the river or headland.

Mount Kembla is a developing residential area. Kembla is named from an Aboriginal word meaning "wild game abundant" or "plenty of game".

Kerosene mining was established in the 1860's, operating until 1880. Growth took place in the 1880's, aided by the establishment of coal mining and the construction of the railway line.

The Mt Kembla Mining Heritage Festival has become one of the Illawarra's premier community events in recent years, attracting thousands of local and interstate visitors.

Major features of the area include the Illawarra Escarpment State Conservation Area, Mount Kembla Mine Picnic Area, the Illawarra Range, Mount Kembla Park and Mount Kembla Mining Heritage Inc.

Shellharbour on the New South Wales South Coast is the place for lovers of water sports. Whatever it is you care to do in blue water there's a spot here
for it, be it surfing, fishing or boating. Shellharbour is one of the most thriving towns on the South Coast as a result, where people flock to indulge the
senses and let loose for a while on a coastal holiday.

Stanwell Park is a rural and residential area, Stanwell park is thought to be named after the villages of Stanwell on the south side of London.

Major features of the area include, Stanwell Park Beach and reserve, Bald Hill Headland Reserve (hang gliding take off point), Ultimate Skirmish Paint Ball area, Tops Christian Conference Centre, Stanwell Park Dam, Lawrence Hargrave Memorial, Bald Hill Lookout, The Garden of Peace and the Wodi Wodi Track.

Stanwell Tops is a rural and residential area bounded by Otford and Lady Wakehurst Drive in the north, the locality of Clifton, the Illawarra Escarpment, the Wodi-Wodi Track, Stanwell Creek and the locality of Maddens Plains in the south and the Southern Freeway in the west.

Stanwell Tops is well known for its beautiful coastal and cliff views, beaches, picnic areas and great surfing beaches.

Major features of Stanwell Tops are Kelly's Falls, Wodi Wodi Track, Bald Hill Lookout, Henry Halloran Park, Hindu Temple, The Garden of Peace and Tops Christian Conference Centre.

Some may say Stanwell Tops is a hang gliders paradise.

Thirroul is an established residential and parkland area, Thirroul is named from an Aboriginal word meaning "the place or valley of the cabbage tree palms".

Land was used mainly for farming and timber- getting. Growth took place 1880's, spurred by the construction of the railway line and coal mining.

Major features of the area include Thirroul Beach the resting place of the famous shipwreck Amy, Lady Fuller Park, Taupu Surf School, Thirroul Seaside and Arts Festival, Hanglideoz, Canoe and Kayak Adventures and Warren Windsports.

Located at the entrance to Lake Illawarra, Warilla is a good step-off point for fishing and boating, just a couple of the many activities that take place at Lake Illawarra. Circled with many scenic picnic areas and children's playground equipment, Lake Illawarra is the perfect location for outings with family or friends.

Werri Beach is a family and dog friendly beach located in the most scenic coastal town on the South Coast, Gerringong. Gerringong and Werri Beach itself features stunning panoramic views of the Rose Valley and ocean. The beach is located on a sweeping stretch between two rocky headlands, with a natural lagoon at one end and rock pools at the other. Werri Beach is ideal for active or those who simply seek to unwind. Surfers and body boarders have access to some of the best waves on the South Coast. Access off Pacific Avenue, Gerringong.

Windang is an established residential area with substantial parklands. Windang is named from an Aboriginal word meaning "scene of a flight".

Primbee is located approximately 12 kilometres south of the Wollongong City Centre. It is a residential suburb just south of the Warrawong Westfield Shopping Centre

Windang is located on the southern tip of the peninsula guarding the ocean entrance to Lake Illawarra. Windang is popular for its fishing, prawning, boating, windsurfing and yachting.

Major features of the area include the coastal recreation reserves, Perkins Beach, Port Kembla Golf Course, Illawarra Golf Range, Warrigal Aboriginal Arts, Korrongulla Swamp, Boronia park, Pine Tree Park, Primbee Park, Ray Crump Oval, Wetherall Park, Windang Beach and Garden Playground, Windang Foreshore Park and Windang Peninsula Heritage Park.

Wollongong is an established residential and commercial area, settlement of the area dates from the 1820's, with growth taking place in the 1880's into the early 1900's, spurred by the opening of the railway line. Australian history buffs will definitely want to discover facts about Wollongong's major foundation
in coalmining and one of it's main establishments Port Kembla Steel Works (Blue Scope Steel).

Major features in the area include Wollongong Crown Street Mall, Wollongong Central Shopping Centre, Wollongong City Gallery, Illawarra Museum,
Illawarra Performing Arts Centre (Merrigong Theatre Company), WIN Sports Entertainment Centre, WIN Stadium and a whole lot more.