Wollongong is on the eve of 'a brilliant window of opportunity' says tourism boss
Since his appointment as general manager of Destination Wollongong nearly nine months ago, Jeremy Wilshire has enjoyed a busy year full of many highlights
Since his appointment as general manager of Destination Wollongong nearly nine months ago, Jeremy Wilshire has enjoyed a busy year full of many highlights. These include the successful delivery of the 2025 World Triathlon Championships, the opening of world-class mountain biking trails at Mount Kembla, the release of a prospectus for a Port Kembla-based cruise terminal, and the launch of a cheeky, and highly successful new marketing campaign.
Jeremy Wilshire can be well pleased with his first year in the hot seat but he’s determined to make every post a winner in 2026 and beyond with several “game changing” projects in the offing. He wants the city and the region to take a bolder approach in developing exciting new tourism products.
“We need to put behind us talk of Wollongong being a city of potential,” Jeremy said. “I’m a bit sick of hearing the potential word.
“Let’s be bold in our vision and execute it. That’s what we’ve got to do. Enhancing our brand should be explored relentlessly.”
Jeremy cited a number of big tourism opportunities that he hopes can reach fruition over the next couple of years. “Things like a film studio, a cruise terminal and a convention centre would really change the game for Wollongong.”
A year of highlights has included the the release of a prospectus for a Port Kembla-based cruise terminal and the opening of world-class mountain biking trails at Mount Kembla. Photos: Jeremy Lasek
He believes the political planets aligning with a Labor Lord Mayor, and Labor state and federal members presents a unique chance to kick some significant goals.
“Absolutely, now is the time. There can be great ideas but they may come at the wrong time. Whereas I really think this is a brilliant window of opportunity for us to take advantage of, if we’re bold enough and organised enough to do so.”
Jeremy sees great potential for Wollongong’s Botanic Garden and Destination Wollongong lodged a submission as part of the recent master planning exercise in support of a cafe on site.
“There’s a need for a commercial nature-based activity, a significant food and beverage offering acting as a central hub.”
Destination Wollongong GM Jeremy Wilshire would like to see more events held in historic manor house Glennifer Brae and its gardens
He also sees untapped potential for the historic manor house Glennifer Brae, which sits above the botanic garden.
“A forgotten gem is a great way to describe it,” Jeremy said. “It’s our only grand building that should have public access. Let’s celebrate that part of our history.” He believes both the building and the magnificent gardens that surround Glennifer Brae should be activated for events and activities.
Also on Jeremy’s radar for a new tourism offering is the proposal championed by a former Kiama mayor, Neville Fredericks, to extend the Great Southern Walk south from Sublime Point above Austinmer.
“They’re currently contemplating another stage through to Mount Kembla and then another to Kiama. Market trends suggest that the long walks are in vogue but they need to be accessible and safe.
“As a longer-term plan, why not celebrate the escarpment for what it is, and ensure we’re providing some of those longer format hiking options.”
