Council casts Lake Illawarra opportunity line, invites bites
Lake Illawarra users are invited to apply for a new Marine Estate Champions pilot project is delivered by Wollongong City Council, Shellharbour City Council and the NSW Marine Estate
Media release from Wollongong City Council, 24 November 2025
Calling all users of Lake Illawarra! Got an idea to help protect it but don’t know where to start? Let’s work together to lake it happen!
The Marine Estate Champions program is a free, community initiative which empowers residents to get hands-on to protect and restore Lake Illawarra.
This initiative is delivered by Wollongong City Council, Shellharbour City Council and the NSW Marine Estate as a pilot project.
Participants will join four evening workshops exploring Lake Illawarra’s ecology, dynamics, challenges and opportunities, take a catchment-to-coast field trip with local experts and pitch their own project idea at a celebratory graduation event.
One outstanding project will also be selected to receive mentorship and support to help turn their ideas into action.
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said the program was a fantastic opportunity for passionate, local people to step up and become community leaders.
“These Champions will not only build knowledge and confidence for our community but also help create real change for the health and future of Lake Illawarra,” said Cr Brown.
“I encourage all lake users to apply, whether you enjoy fishing, kayaking, swimming, picnicking or walking.”
The program, to run from March to May 2026, is delivered by the NSW Marine Estate Education & Stakeholder Liaison Team, Wollongong City Council and Shellharbour City Council. It is part of the NSW Marine Estate Education Strategy and supports actions in the Lake Illawarra Coastal Management Program.
Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer echoed the sentiments, adding:
“Our community cares deeply about Lake Illawarra. It’s part of our story, where memories are made and many of us grew up,” said Shellharbour Mayor Chris Homer.
“This is a chance to turn that care into action. Whether you’ve got a big idea or just want to learn more, this program is about locals leading the way to protect something for the next generation.”
Applications are open to residents eager to learn, connect and contribute from both Wollongong and Shellharbour local government areas.
The Marine Estate Education Strategy program is funded by the NSW Government under the Marine Estate Management Strategy.
