Organisers of the fast-approaching World Triathlon Championship Finals have responded swiftly to concerns raised by locals living on the cycling route that they weren't getting enough information about road closures and other disturbances.
In one month's time, Wollongong will again be the focus of the sporting world when more than 5,000 elite and aspiring athletes will descend on the city, together with their supporters and families.
The city and region proved in 2022, as we emerged from the pandemic lockdowns and restrictions, that we could host world-class events. The UCI Cycling World Championships went off without a hitch and images of our spectacular coastline and rugged escarpment were beamed across the world.
While the event did create some disruption to residents due to street closures and changed traffic conditions, the city threw its support behind the event, turning out in big numbers to cheer on the competitors.
Concerns raised by locals
Four weeks out, and again, there's been some concern raised about the course and how locals will deal with a number of days where they'll have no vehicular access to and from their homes for lengthy periods.
One local who will be impacted told the latest meeting of Neighbourhood Forum 5 that many people living in the vicinity of inner-city streets – including Harbour, Smith, Wilson, Campbell and Corrimal streets – will be without car access during all-day road closures from Thursday, 16 October to Sunday, 19 October. Significant impacts could include access for home-care services and to get to and from medical appointments.
In response, residents have now received a detailed update on the impacts of the event from the race organisers, Elite Energy. Over the next three weeks, starting on Friday, special information sessions will be conducted in two central locations.
"The event has undergone a rigorous, multi-agency approval process ahead of its delivery," the event organisers say.
There will be disruptions
"To support this international event there will be some changes to access, parking and traffic arrangements in Wollongong," locals were told in a two-page notice.
"We understand events of this nature can disrupt daily routines and we appreciate any adjustments you make to support this opportunity to showcase Wollongong on the world stage.
"Please be assured we've plans in place to ensure emergency services can access homes and businesses throughout the event."
Pedestrian access will be maintained
Temporary road closures will be in place around Wollongong Harbour, Marine Drive, Endeavour Drive and surrounding streets at various times between Wednesday, 15 October and Sunday, 19 October. Pedestrian access within the precinct will be available at all times. Pedestrian access will also be maintained at all times for residents, the race organisers have assured locals.
"There will be special event clearways operating in key locations," the organisers say. "When parking check for Special Event Clearway signage as vehicles will be towed away at the owner's expense.
"For carers and NDIS providers, if you require carers or similar to access your property during the event, please make sure that they are aware of the road closure schedule, carpark closures and special event clearways ahead of time. They may need additional time to park and walk to your property.
"For essential appointments between 15 and 19 October, please contact us at community@triathlon.com so we can work with you on access. We recommend rescheduling non-essential appointments where possible."
Change of route for free bus
On street parking in areas outside of the road closures will be available and the Gong Free Shuttle will operate to an amended timetable that will be confirmed closer to the event.
On the 2025 World Triathlon Championship Wollongong website you can find a fabulous interactive map under 'Local Access' and all the details you need to know about road and carpark closures and clearways for race days.
Starting this Friday, 19 September, those with questions or concerns about the impact of the event can visit one of six community and business information sessions.
Friday Markets, Wollongong Mall
10am-2pm, Friday 19 September 2025
10am-2pm, Friday 26 September 2025
10am-2pm, Friday 11 October 2025
Blue Mile (adjacent to Levendi Cafe)
10am-12 noon, Sunday 21 September 2025
10am-12 noon, Sunday 28 September 2025
10am-12 noon, Saturday 11 October 2025
Race organisers say they're also happy to discuss anyone's concerns between now and the event beginning. Call during business hours on 02 4423 7775 or email at community@wollongongtriathlon.
Letterboxed information updates also call for support. "If you're keen to step up, volunteering opportunities are available. Please email volunteers@
The World Triathlon Championship Finals are supported by the NSW Government, Wollongong City Council, Destination NSW and Destination Wollongong.
