Conversations was the people’s choice winner during Shellharbour Marina’s PromenArt exhibition. Photo: Keeli Royle.
Beginning with the PromenART outdoor sculpture walk and finishing with a dating night with a difference, there’s a distinct spring flavour to this week’s social calendar in the Illawarra.
A pop-up market, exhibition and series of workshops combine in one event in Kiama, and Wollongong heats up with a fire festival. There’s a spring race day for Illawarra’s combined Rotary clubs, and the Kiama Picnic Train is snaking its way back down its usual coastal path.
There’s a bit of culture, a bit of sport, and even something for the four-legged member of the family. Here are our top nine picks for the week.
All week
Don’t miss this year’s PromenART sculpture walk. Photo: PromenART Facebook.
PromenART
When: Now until Wednesday 30 October, various times
Where: The Waterfront Shell Cove, Cove Boulevard, Shell Cove
Cost: Free.
This extended exhibition features over 30 contemporary works and offers a chance to discover, learn about, and experience some of Australia’s most talented sculptors at a truly spectacular location. The works are complemented by live art demonstrations, activities and more. Enjoy live music every Saturday of the exhibition. Artists include Mark Crotti, Glenn Whitehall and Dyllan Floyd.
Friday
With a pop-up market, art workshops and an exhibition, “Against the Tide Artists” has something for everyone. Image: Kiama Art Society.
Against the Tide Exhibition
When: Friday 13 to Wednesday 18 September, 10 am to 3 pm
Where: The Old Fire Station Kiama, 40 Shoalhaven Street, Kiama
Cost: Various | Book via eventbrite.
“Against the Tide Artists” will feature local artists, makers and photographers. The week will include a pop-up market, art workshops and an exhibition. Workshops include:
- Saturday 14 September, 1 to 3 pm – Art of Rock Wrapping
- Sunday 15 September, 11 am to 1 pm – Weaving Connections
Saturday
Don’t miss out as this kid friendly festival hits Wollongong. Photo: Wollongong Fire Festival Facebook.
Wollongong Fire Festival
When: Saturday 14 September, 5 to 10 pm
Where: Lang Park, 1 Marine Drive, Wollongong
Cost: General admission $10 | Under 12s free | Book via Trybooking.
Get ready to witness breathtaking fire performers and thrilling fire stunts that will leave you in awe. Enjoy mesmerizing fire shows and groove to the rhythm of live music that will keep you on your feet all night long. As the sky lights up with flame performances, experience the thrill of amusement rides and bounce around in jumping castles. Indulge in a variety of delicious treats from food trucks and pick yourself up a souvenir at the merchandise stalls.
The Combined Rotary Clubs of the Illawarra Race Day takes place at Kembla Grange this Saturday. Photo: stocknshares.
Combined Rotary Clubs of the Illawarra Race Day
When: Saturday 14 September, 11 am
Where: Kembla Grange Racecourse, Princes Highway, Kembla Grange
Cost: From $10 | Book via Moshtix.
You’re invited to spend the day trackside at Kembla Grange Racecourse for the Combined Rotary Clubs of the Illawarra Race Day. Expect live racing and luncheons at Bert Lillye Lounge, Grandstand Bistro and Members Dining Room (booking essential). General admission will include access to snack bars and bars, with limited seating available upon arrival.
Sydney FC is a seasoned provider of community football events, promoting participation at all skill levels. Photo: Sydney FC.
Sydney FC Kiama Football Festival
When: Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 September, 9 am to 5 pm
Where: Kiama Sports Complex, Blue Haven Hostel, 1 Havilah Place, Kiama
Cost: Team $300 | Send expressions of interest to [email protected].
There’s still a chance for young footy players to celebrate the end of the winter season and experience the thrills and excitement of a football gala. Sydney FC is visiting Kiama for this festival for kids aged six to 12. Teams will need a squad of eight to 10 players, so clubs are encouraged to gather their team and get ready for a fun football trip away. The format is mixed six-aside, with a minimum of six games per team, open to all teams. There will be kids’ activities and trophies for winning teams.
Sunday
Hauling the Kiama Picnic Train™ this time will be a diesel locomotive. Image: The Picnic Train Facebook.
Kiama Picnic Train – Heritage Diesel Day
When: Sunday 15 September, 11:20 am departure, 4:20 pm return
Where: Wollongong Train Station, 5 Lowden Square, Wollongong
Cost: Private Compartment $550 | Four Seater Booth $360 per group | Single Ticket $110 per person | Book via Trybooking.
Come along for a special diesel-hauled trip out on the signature Picnic Train journey from Sydney to Kiama and back (via Wollongong). Settle back in your heritage carriage as the train leaves the Sydney suburbs behind and travels through the Royal National Park. Take in the spectacular views of the coastline along the way to the seaside town of Kiama.
After arrival at Kiama, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the many charms of this picturesque coastal town. Take a walk up to the famous Kiama Blowhole, relax at the surf beach or browse the many stores. Pack a picnic or book a lunch in Kiama.
Thursday
Don’t miss out on this free, informative session with South Coast Dog Training Club. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Dog Training Talk
When: Thursday 19 September, 3:30 to 4:30 pm
Where: Kiama Library (upstairs), 7 Railway Parade, Kiama
Cost: Free | Book via Trybooking.
Got a pup, an old dog who could use some new tricks or thinking about getting a canine companion? Meet a special furry guest star and learn more about how you can enjoy some fun and build a strong bond with your furry pal as the South Coast Dog Training Club gives a talk on obedience, agility and flyball and answers all your training questions.
Yindyamarra Cultural Experience is offering males of all ages the chance to learn how to play the yidaki (didgeridoo) Image: Yindyamarra.
Learn to play the Yidaki
When: Thursday 19 September, 11 am to noon
Where: City Library, Shellharbour Civic Centre, 76 Cygnet Avenue, Shellharbour City Centre
Cost: $5 | Book via Shellharbour City Libraries.
This session is open to males of any age who wish to learn how to play the yidaki (Digeridoo). Brendan from Yindyamarra Cultural Experience will be coming in to teach you how to play and the cultural meaning behind the instrument. There’s no need to bring anything (unless you have your own Yidaki) and no experience is required. Follow Yindymarra on Instagram for information on this and other cultural experiences.
This series of events is low-pressure and relaxed, so you can be yourself. Photo: Wollongong Singles.
Wollongong Singles Events
When: Thursday 19 September, 6 to 8 pm
Where: The Prince, Globe Lane, Wollongong
Cost: $35 | Book via Humanitix.
Are you tired of dating apps or the same old speed dating routine? Looking for a more relaxed, inclusive and supportive way to meet new people and potentially find a romantic connection? Wollongong Singles Events are for people of all ages, backgrounds or genders, but this one is for ages 20 to 35. Organisers have ditched the high-pressure format of traditional speed dating and replaced it with fun, facilitated activities that make connecting with others easy and enjoyable.
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