80 km south of Sydney. Thriving industrial city with a population of more than a quarter of a million, making it, after Sydney and Newcastle, the third largest in New South Wales, and tenth in Australia. It has the added attraction of the New South Wales steel industry just down the road at Port Kembla. It ought to be ghastly – but being Australia, it isn’t. There are surfing beaches nearby, and the inland hills (lllawarra State Recreation Area) have some fine views and excellent cycling. They’re also very proud of their Grand Pacific Drive, rightly so; it takes in some of the most rugged and beautiful southern-Australian coastline. Just a pity that it’s all so close to Sydney. Check out their website for up to date events and activities www.visitwollongong.com.au.