Four of Lake Illawarra’s hidden gems

Although Wollongong’s beautiful coastline gets most of the fanfare (and rightly so!) in the summertime, it’s not the only place for fun by the water.

We’re spilling the beans on another hot weather highlight – Lake Illawarra.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said the 36km² lake offers space for everyone to explore and enjoy, especially over the summer holidays.

“It’s no secret our beaches and parks can get pretty busy on hot days, and even the hardiest of beachgoers can be keen for a change of scene,’’ he said.

“Why not try the lake? It has something for everyone, from parks and shared pathways along the foreshore to water-based activities like boating, fishing and sailing. Plus, its size means there’s room for everyone to find their chill-out spot.

“We are so lucky to live alongside this natural wonder.”

Dodge the traffic and head to one of Lake Illawarra’s hidden gems:

• “Dapto Beach”, Kanahooka
  Jerrets Point, at the entrance to Mullet Creek, is a great spot to take the dogs for a walk Leave the car or bike at Purrah Bay playground and enjoy a leisurely stroll (1km return) through Purrah Bay Reserve to the point. Bird lovers can spot superb fairy-wrens and red-browed finches in the peaceful marshland.
• Holborn Park, Berkeley
  Look no further for your holiday picnic! Berkeley’s Holborn Park covers all bases with one of the region’s best skate parks, barbecues, picnic tables, toilets, a playground and the Tuggerah Bay Jetty. There is plenty of grass for lawn games and paved pathways for kilometres in both directions.
• Rocky Point, Tallawarra
  The spit and wharf at Tallawarra Power Station are perfect spots to throw a in a line for bream, flathead and blackfish. If you have a boat, you can launch that too. Plus, there’s a walk/bike/scooter track with a fun boardwalk section just 200 metres from the carpark.
• Purry Burry Bay Jetty, Primbee
  If rhyming jetty names are your jam, you can’t go past Purry Burry Bay Jetty in Primbee (try say that fast!). The jetty was upgraded last year with non-slip mesh. It’s best visited at high tide when the sun is setting over the escarpment.

Cr Bradbery encouraged everyone visiting the lake to do so in a safe and respectful manner.

“If you are heading out, pack the hat and sunscreen and always leave your rubbish in the bins provided. Protecting our lake is everyone’s responsibility.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy Lake Illawarra now and into the future,” he said.