YOU ARE HERE: Home  Regions and Maps (Wollongong North - Part One)  Wollongong North - Part Three

Wollongong North Part Three - Coastal Villages Helensburgh, Coalcliff, Coledale, Scarborough, Wombarra and Clifton were originally established as small settlements grouped along a string of coal mines. The area has strong links with Wales, Scotland, Ireland and England - the native lands of many miners who worked at the coal face. The explorer George Bass first discovered coal at Coalcliff in 1797, however, it wasn't until the 1880's that the coal seams were actually worked. Many of the original miners' cottages are still intact, giving the villages a quaint, timeless quality. Today, these modest cottages, many of which are perched precariously along the cliff face, are highly prized real estate. Scarborough Hotel is a well known local icon, particularly as it is sited right at the cliff's edge. The advantage of course, is the dramatic and uninterrupted ocean view. Dolphins can often be sighted frolicking beyond the breakwater. Australia's Cornwall The charming seaside hamlet of Austinmer has much to commend it, not the least of which is a resemblance to the Cornish seaside. The natural beauty of the area was recognised as far back as the early 1900's when Austinmer was promoted as one of the state's first seaside holiday resorts. In those days visitors travelled to the hamlet either by rail or by horse and buggy. Austinmer Beach is still among the top surfing beaches in the region. A Strong Link with the Arts Established initially as a rail town, Thirroul is now a favourite retreat for Sydneysiders. It is also a thriving centre for culture and the arts. Here you will find the Beach Art Gallery, Oskar's Wild Bookstore and Coffee Shop, The Beaches Hotel, Thirroul Antiques Centre and a select group of specialist antiques and craft shops. D H Lawrence wrote his novel 'Kangaroo' here in the early 1920's, whilst living at Wyewurk Cottage. Thirroul is also the home of Iron Men Darren and Dean Mercer who honed their skills in the surf at Thirroul beach. The same beach was the site of one of the regions famous ship wrecks, the Amy. The Home of Black Coal Separating the townships of Bulli and Thirroul is Bulli Pass, a steep winding descent through the escarpment. Charles Throsby, an early pioneer, first navigated a route down the mountain in 1815 in search of grazing pastures. However, it was the discovery of coal that put Bulli firmly on the map. The township is proud of its coal mining history and has made considerable effort to preserve its heritage. Just off the main highway is the historic railway station, which also houses a mining museum exhibiting priceless artefacts from Bulli's past. The Road to Central Wollongong Various highly individual townships nestle side by side en route to central Wollongong. Each boasts its own unique character and attractions. Balgownie, for instance, still retains its village atmosphere and its connections with the mining industry. Balgownie School Heritage Museum contains many artefacts from the period. The Rhododendron Gardens are located at the top of Mount Pleasant. This beautiful setting is home to a spectacular display of azaleas and rhododendrons in spring. Visitors are also welcome at any of the many clubs located from Helensburgh to Wollongong. >> Discover Wollongong Central Top of Page

•  Part One - A Coastline of    Unsurpassed Beauty    From rugged cliffs to sandy    beaches. •  Part Two - Top of the Towns    The unique attractions offered    by the escarpment towns. •  Wollongong Central •  Wollongong South Get detailed driving directions from anywhere in Australia to Wollongong. Click the map below for a larger version, or view a more detailed map.