STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS

Ms BYRNES (Cunningham) (16:04): This month, in September, the inaugural Wollongong Festival takes centre stage, a month-long showcase of music, culture and creativity. The Yours and Owls team have brought together local precincts, venues and artists with a vision to showcase the best of Wollongong. The Albanese Labor government has proudly delivered $250,000 under Revive Live to launch the festival, along with $250,000 for the Yours and Owls Festival, ending the celebrations with a bang over the October long weekend.

Things kick off with Sound Atlas in Thirroul on Saturday 12 September with free live music at Beaches Hotel, Black Market Roasters and Frank's Wild Years. Bulli's Turning Sky Festival, the next day, will feature tree planting, cultural performances, children's yoga and gelato at Mailbag Hollow, with live music at the Timbermill, Resin Brewing and the Heritage Hotel.

The Port Kembla Fringe Festival, on 19 and 20 September, brings live comedy, music, art and more to laneways and quirky venues. Then Culture Mix's celebration of our vibrant multicultural heritage returns on Saturday 26 September, followed by Young Blood on the Sunday at the Wollongong Youth Centre and Globe Lane precinct. Supporting Australian artists, activating local venues and attracting new visitors, the Wollongong Festival has all the ingredients to become a defining celebration of our city.

Congratulations to the Wollongong Festival team, Yours and Owls and every arts precinct for helping bring this exciting new celebration to life.