Nestled along the stunning Australian coastline of New South Wales’ azure waters and rolling hills, the Illawarra region is a captivating blend of natural wonders and vibrant communities. As the owner and orthodontist at South Coast Orthodontics in Corrimal, I’ve had the privilege of calling this picturesque region our clinic’s home, and experiencing its unparalleled charm firsthand.
The Illawarra region is a treasure trove of delights, boasting a diverse array of suburbs that each exudes its own unique character and appeal. From the bustling streets of Wollongong and Shellharbour to the tranquil beaches of Austinmer, every corner of the Illawarra is infused with warmth and hospitality that is truly heartwarming. The strong sense of community that thrives within these suburbs creates a welcoming environment where residents come together to celebrate life’s moments, both big and small. Driving home on weekdays and weekends, I always see team sports, family picnics and social gatherings.
Corrimal, where South Coast Orthodontics stands as a beacon of oral health, holds a special place in my heart. The close-knit community that calls Corrimal home has welcomed my team and I with open arms, and I’m grateful for the connections and friendships that have blossomed within this vibrant suburb. The opportunity to provide orthodontic care to the residents of Corrimal, Wollongong and the Illawarra is a privilege that I don’t take for granted. Not in my wildest dreams during my days Sydney University could I have ever imagined working in such an upbeat, warm and naturally beautiful environment. One day, I’ll write about the alternative path I could’ve chosen, which was practicing orthodontics at historical but drizzly London.
Many people ask which suburbs are part of the Illawarra. There’s so many, and here are some of them:
- Albion Park
- Albion Park Rail
- Austinmer
- Avon
- Avondale
- Balgownie
- Barrack Heights
- Barrack Point
- Bellambi
- Berkeley
- Blackbutt
- Bombo
- Broughton Village
- Brownsville
- Bulli
- Calderwood
- Carrington Falls
- Cataract
- Cleveland
- Clifton
- Coalcliff
- Coledale
- Coniston
- Cordeaux
- Cordeaux Heights
- Corrimal
- Cringila
- Croom
- Curramore
- Dapto
- Darkes Forest
- Dombarton
- Dunmore
- East Corrimal
- Fairy Meadow
- Farmborough Heights
- Fernhill
- Figtree
- Flinders
- Foxground
- Gerringong
- Gerroa
- Gwynneville
- Haywards Bay
- Helensburgh
- Horsley
- Huntley
- Jamberoo
- Jerrara
- Kanahooka
- Keiraville
- Kembla Grange
- Kembla Heights
- Kiama
- Kiama Downs
- Kiama Heights
- Knights Hill
- Koonawarra
- Lake Heights
- Lake Illawarra
- Lilyvale
- Macquarie Pass
- Maddens Plains
- Mangerton
- Marshall Mount
- Minnamurra
- Mount Keira
- Mount Kembla
- Mount Ousley
- Mount Pleasant
- Mount Saint Thomas
- Mount Warrigal
- North Macquarie
- North Wollongong
- Oak Flats
- Oak Heights
- Otford
- Port Kembla
- Primbee
- Rose Valley
- Russell Vale
- Saddleback Mountain
- Scarborough
- Shell Cove
- Shellharbour
- Shellharbour City Centre
- Spring Hill
- Stanwell Park
- Stanwell Tops
- Tarrawanna
- Thirroul
- Tongarra
- Toolijooa
- Towradgi
- Tullimbar
- Unanderra
- Upper Kangaroo Valley
- Warilla
- Warrawong
- Werri Beach
- West Wollongong
- Willow Vale
- Windang
- Wollongong
- Wombarra
- Wongawilli
- Woonona
- Yallah
- Yellow Rock
Beyond these charming suburbs and friendly faces, the Illawarra is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty that never fails to inspire awe and wonder. From the rugged cliffs of Bald Hill to the rolling waves of Stanwell Park Beach, the region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lush greenery, pristine beaches, and sweeping ocean views serve as a constant reminder of the splendor that surrounds us, inviting us to pause, breathe, and appreciate the beauty of our surroundings.
I do love Sydney’s food and cultural centres of Harris Park, Lakemba, Leichhardt, Bankstown, Marrickville, Chippendale, Newtown, Haymarket, Glebe, Parramatta and Cabramatta, but I promise that Wollongong and the Illawarra is home to comparably tasty tandoori, pasta, kebab, dumplings, gelato and pho.
The Illawarra and Wollongong; where the great outdoors of nature, and the great indoors of culture and food collide spectacularly.
If I’m going to spend over 60 hours per week at any location in Australia, then I would’nt want to be anywhere else than here at South Coast Orthodontics, 57 Railway Street, Corrimal, NSW 2518. My heart of the Illawarra.
Yours truly,
Dr Kamal Ahmed
P.S What happened to my friend who quit his job as a dentist to become an archaeologist? His career is now in ruins.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Illawarra region known for?
100 kilometres away from Sydney is the Illawarra. The region is known for its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant arts, sports and cultural scene.
2. What are some popular attractions to visit in the Illawarra?
Popular attractions in the Illawarra include the Sea Cliff Bridge, Kiama Blowhole, Nan Tien Temple, Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk, and Wollongong Botanic Garden.
3. How can I get to the Illawarra from Sydney?
You can get to the Illawarra from Sydney by car, train, or bus. The drive from Sydney to Wollongong takes about 1.5 hours, and there are regular train services from Sydney Central Station to Wollongong and other towns in the Illawarra region. Buses also operate between Sydney and various destinations in the Illawarra.
