Written By Koda Way and Harrison Mellare When it comes to entertainment in the Illawarra, the times change like the lyrics of Dylan’s famous ballad. Once used for greyhound races, the Wollongong Showground was a staple of entertainment, hosting rugby league matches and marches. But people wanted more. Settling on the area directly next to the showground, construction on a regional entertainment centre began in 1997, and $26 million later, Wollongong’s pièce de résistance was finished. The WIN Entertainment Centre — or as locals would name it, the WEC — burst to life with Bob Dylan on his Never Ending…
Author: Koda Way
A Woonona surfer has received a wildcard into the surfing masters championship to be held in Central America next week. Surfers from around the world will compete in the ISA World Masters Surfing Championship, the seventh annual event hosted by Surf City in El Salvador on October 18. Woonona surfer, Kim Woolridge, 52, was shocked to hear the news of her invitation to compete in the global event. “Haven’t done a comp since 2016 so I’m pretty excited to be back,” Ms Woolridge said. “It’s my first time representing Australia since 1991 in my amateur days.” Ms Woolridge was honoured…
Radio streaming provides listeners with on-demand access to content and a more personalised experience, but it also allows creators to reach wider audiences, fostering an ecosystem of voices and genres. Radio Host, Kevin Barron, 37, said streaming provided more accessibility for listeners, particularly when they don’t have access to radio outlets. “Sometimes we are all people have, especially with the older generation,” Mr Barron said. Streaming radio is vital for accessibility, allowing listeners to connect with their favourite stations and programs, regardless of location or access to traditional radio devices, Mr Barron said. “It’s amazing how much accessibility there is to…
First 2 Strike martial arts school in Woonona has launched a new women’s self-defence program to raise awareness about domestic abuse. Owner of First 2 Strike, Vince Serra, 52, said he has always wanted to introduce a women’s self-defence program and was encouraged by the response from the public. “With encouragement from my peers I was able to make this happen straight away,” Mr Serra said. “In Woonona I feel like we needed to find something more for women’s needs in regards to protection.” Mr Serra has explained that self-defence for women needed to be a long-term commitment so as…
As Year 12 students prepare for the HSC exams, mental health concerns are rising with just over a month until the final assessments begin. The last round of exams will start on October 15, marking a critical period for senior students across New South Wales. Woonona High School student Asha Simpson, 17, said she was feeling stressed and anxious about the exams. “I feel this pressure of the exams defining who I will be next year,” Miss Simpson said. “Coming up to the exams the year group has become a bit sour with anxieties flying through the roof.” Miss Simpson…
The introduction of more social groups in aged care has decreased the self isolation rate for the Illawarra’s elderly. With companies such as the Bay and Basin Community Resources (BCR), Wollongong senior residents are being presented with the opportunity to connect with other people within aged care. BCR Aged Care Executive Manager Lorriane Williams said the added community events have been beneficial, on top of the one-on-one services that already exist. “We are able to now expand and provide from outside peoples homes,” Ms Williams said. “A lot of older people want to still explore the world but unfortunately can’t…
Dangerous winds have left an intersection in Woonona without power, leaving drivers deciding when to enter the high-speed road. On August 28, during peak hour traffic, the electricity along Memorial Drive failed, leaving drivers to use the ‘give way’ system. Disability support worker Zac Treglown, 18, was driving a. mini-van to work when he encountered the power outage on Memorial Drive. “It was quite stressful for myself because I had eight participants in the car when entering the intersection,” Mr Treglown said. “I was scared that the drivers would risk pushing through and take that risk of driving through with…
An IIllawarra influencer has risen to fame to become the Illawarra Dragons number one supporter through TikTok. Julian Ali, 18, has gradually become the St George Illawarra Dragons’ number-one supporter through his viral online content Mr Ali became involved with the National Rugby League (NRL) community, specifically the Illawarra Dragons, posting social media content about the Illawarra Dragons. Being flooded in a footy background, Mr Ali became obsessed with the Dragons and the NRL at an early age, which led him to his obsession with the Dragons. “Started from scratch in 2023 and built my way up…this account means a…
Wollongong metal heads Gosika has begun its tour around Sydney and Canberra, exciting heavy metal fans. The Gosika tour started at Canberra’s Pot Belly Bar on August 15, to promote their new EP “Ancient Magicks”, which was released earlier this month. Vocalist Mr Hedges was thrilled to see many newcomers to metal rock music attend their concerts. “Even if it’s the start to your metal journey, it’s still a lot of excitement and energy that gets put into that environment,” Mr Hedges said. “These are the first shows after the release, so hopefully, people can get behind it.” Gosika formed…