Community-led environment conservation volunteer programs are gaining support across the Illawarra. Bushcare is one of the seven volunteer programs run by Wollongong Council to help restore natural vegetation. The program offers free environmental workshops, events and training. Bushcare coordinators said the program encourages participants to be involved in the restoration of natural areas and dunes on community land. In addition to Wollongong City Council initiatives, the Australian Government’s Green Army program has encouraged young people to be hands-on in developing conservation strategies. The program started in 2014 and includes projects on re- vegetating river catchments, constructing boardwalks, pest animal management, monitoring…
Author: Sally Krajacic
You could catch your next wave on low-cost custom fins, if a team of University of Wollongong has its way. The UOW researchers have 3D-printed fins that they claim allow surfers to perform better in the water. Head of the project, Professor Marc in het Panhuis has rethought traditional surf fin design and manufacturing techniques. While custom fin designs may be costly and time-consuming, the UOW research team said prices could drop at the hands of 3D printing.
Former rugby league star Mario Fenech opened up last month about the brain damage he has suffered from too many hits to the head. Having played in an era where rules surrounding concussions and player welfare were less strict, the man affectionally known as ‘The Maltese Falcon’ has warned today’s players to put common sense ahead of bravery. He told the Sydney Morning Herald how his own health suffered by choosing to stay on the field after a serious collision. “I would’ve been knocked out eight or nine times a season. I knew that I was going to pay a price one day,” Fenech…
“What we feared has happened,”Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel said after Tuesday’s back-to-back attacks in Brussels. Tragedy struck in the metro and the airport, with bombs killing 34 people and wounding many more. ISIS has since claimed responsibility for the attacks. People around the world came together and showed support for Brussels via social media. University of Wollongong students were asked to describe in one word the attack and how it has made them feel. Many expressed concerns for their own security. Heartbroken by recent events, students acknowledged that, in times of crisis, we need to unite.
The Wollongong art scene is set to receive a boost after the release of the Council’s new public art strategy. Animating Wollongong aims to promote high quality public art in new developments around the city. This means developers may need to incorporate public art into building projects to secure council approval. The guidelines place priority in supporting ideas and talents to help deliver public art. The art will display Wollongong’s diversity, with a strong emphasis on culture and urban design. “The document provides a framework for public art for the city as well as a process for big developers to have…