Gearing up for Australia Day

An evening of entertainment, food and fireworks will mark the Australia Day public holiday at Wollongong Harbour.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said the day was one to reflect on our Nation’s past, respect our individual contributions and come together as a community.

“Australia Day carries a different meaning for everyone in our community. As we continue to debate as a Nation about its significance and place, we will consider these discussions in our future planning,” said Cr Bradbery.

This year’s event will look a little different to what was offered before Covid-19.

“While supply issues mean there will be no carnival rides and fewer food vendors, attendees can still enjoy ten different savoury and sweet food offerings, roving performers, a DJ, and an historic aircraft flyover.”

Activities will start at 5.00 pm across Osborne Park and Wollongong Harbour.

The night will wrap up at 9.00 pm with fireworks over the harbour.

Council and the CRAM Foundation are activating an Accessible Viewing Area for people with accessibility requirements, and their families, to watch the fireworks. Book your spot here.

To plan your day, including road closures and transport options, visit Australia Day 2023.

Other Australia Day activities and events include:

• MMJ Aquathon
  The annual MMJ Aquathon will make a splash from 8am until 11am at Belmore Basin. For more information, visit Aquathon’s website. Wollongong City Council sponsors this event.

• Citizenship Ceremony
  Cr Bradbery said he looks forward to receiving 120 new Australian citizens who will take their pledge locally. The group hail from 38 different countries including Iran, India, Syria and the UK. “It’s an honour to welcome Australia’s newest citizens. Their skills and cultures will be wonderful additions to Wollongong’s already diverse community,” he said.

• City of Wollongong Australia Day Awards
  The annual Australia Day Award ceremony, which acknowledges the people and organisations who make Wollongong a better place, will be held on Friday 20 January 2023. The awards cover nine existing categories and two categories new for this year, the Environmental Achievement Award and Rising Star Award.

The Australia Day event is brought to you by Wollongong City Council, National Australia Day Council and supported by Novotel, i98FM, the Illawarra Mercury and the Cram Foundation.

Visit our Australia Day page for full details.