The Great Illawarra Walk 2026

Event Details

The Great Illawarra Walk is back for 2026, and registrations are now open.

All funds raised through the 2026 event will be donated to KidsWish, supporting the lives of children with disability or illness and their families through programs, special events, and community projects.

Proudly supported by LJ Hooker Shellharbour, Corrimal and Wollongong, and i98 FM.

Participants are invited to register and be part of a community event that brings joy, connection, and meaningful opportunities to families across the Illawarra.

Where does the walk take place?

Participants can walk as little or as much of the 40km route as they choose, or take part in the fully accessible KidsWish Blue Mile. The 2026 Great Illawarra Walk begins at Bean Roasted Espresso Bar Shellharbour (Addison Street) at 7:00am on Saturday, 14 March, and concludes at Headlands Hotel Austinmer.

A full breakdown of the walk route is available in the Route section of the website.

Headlands Hotel Austinmer – The After Party

The walk concludes with an end-of-event celebration at Headlands Hotel Austinmer. Walkers are invited to enjoy the finale party throughout the afternoon, with most participants expected to arrive in the early afternoon—plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a well-earned beverage or two.