You can contact us by phone on

+61 2 42 275545
or 1800 240 737

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A big welcome to 2009 to all our industry colleagues and associates!  

Following on from a successful 2008 we are excited by what's installed for 2009. We kicked off the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display and are now back in to business concentrating on the Southern Gateway Centre, the Grand Pacific Drive marketing campaign, Wollongong Conference and Events and international trade. 

Thanks to all those who attended the Tourism Wollongong Christmas party at Novotel Wollongong Northbeach. A fabulous evening was had by all and the team enjoyed catching up with their industry peers.   

Wishing you all a bright and positive year ahead.

Until next month
Greg Binskin
General Manager
 

The Blue Mile Opens...

Stage one of the Blue Mile is now open, complete with bright and cheery play equipment for children! The $2 million dollar improvements to Belmore Basin includes viewing platforms, an amphitheatre and a promenade complete with picnic furniture and landscaping. 

The newly developed Belmore Basin now provides a setting for both the community and visitors to enjoy.   

Chinese Officials support Wollongong

Tourism Wollongong and the Illawarra Regional Development Board (IRDB), supported by Illawarra Chinese Chamber of Commerce welcomed a 25 strong Chinese Tourism delegation to Wollongong on Monday 22 December. The study tour focussed on tourism as an economic driver how key stakeholders worked together to benefit the region. The delegation from Qinghai and Haibei met at Five Islands Brewery to experience Wollongong first hand; a destination seen for its beauty and attractive tourism features.  

For many years the IRDB has been developing strong relationships with the business community from provinces of China and as a result, now presented with opportunities to work closely with the north western provinces. 

Be a real Aussie!

Why not celebrate Australia Day with your family and friends at Osbourne Park and Lang Park and enjoy a variety of activities around the Harbour and Foreshore areas. 

You could also soak up the sun at Belmore Basin and come cheer on the participants of the Australia Day 2009 Illawarra Aquathon; Wollongong’s largest and favourite fitness event.

Check out what to these summer holidays...

Need some ideas to keep the family entertained this summer break? Here are ten exciting activities to get you started; 

1. Feed our furry friends at Symbio Wildlife Park or horse ride at Otford Farm
2. Cruise the waters of Jervis Bay with playful dolphins 
3. Head to Knights Hill to wonder at the panoramic views at the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk
4. Ride a bike ride along Wollongong's coastline. Need a bike? Contact Mobile Bike Rental 
5. Spend a day splashing about at Jamberoo Action Park or racing on the kart track at Wollongong City Raceway 
6. Explore the Science Centre and Planetarium hands on exhibits
7. Try a surf lesson with Taupu Surf School or lean how to indoor rock climb at Hang Dog Climbing Gym 
8. Hire a boat with Boab Boat Hire and go fishing on Lake Illawarra
9. Take a relaxing walk in the Botanic Gardens
10. Take a scenic Grand Pacific Drive!

Click here for more information on school holiday/summer break activities.

What's on...

What: 66th Sharpie Nationals
When: Sunday 28 December 2008 - Wednesday 7 January 2009 
Where: Sailing on Lake Illawarra
Info: Phone 02 6255 3408 or www.sharpies.com.au 

What: Wollongong AHM Hawks vs. New Zealand Breakers
When: Friday 2 January 2009
Where: WIN Entertainment Centre, Corner Crown and Harbour Streets, Wollongong
Info: Phone 02 4220 2828 or www.wec.org.au

What: Illawarra Folk Festival 2009
When: Thursday, 15 January 2009 - Sunday, 18 January 2009
Where: Slacky Flat, Bulli Showground, Princes Hwy, Bulli
Info: Phone 1300 887 034 or www.illawarrafolkfestival.com.au

What: 153rd Annual Dapto Show 
When: Friday 16 January 2009 - Saturday 17 January 2009
Where: Dapto Showground, Heininger Street, Dapto
Info: Phone 02 4261 1080 or visit www.daptodogs.org.au 

What: Delta Goodrem - Believe Again Tour
When: Thursday 22 January 2009 
Where: WIN Entertainment Centre, Corner Crown and Harbour Streets, Wollongong
Info: Phone 02 4220 2828 or visit www.wec.org.au 

What: Thirroul Surf Life Saving Fundraising Race Day
When: Saturday 24 January 2009
Where: Kembla Grange Racecourse, Princes Highway, Kembla Grange  
Info: Phone 0412 171 658