Events will kick off at 8am with the aquathon and community walk and continue through the afternoon with water activities, games and entertainment.

Wollongong’s Lang Park will host a number of performers until 8.30pm, with the kids’ stage in nearby Osborne Park entertaining young ones until 5pm.

Cr Bradbery made special mention of the citizenship ceremony that would take place at Wollongong Town Hall at 10.30am.

‘‘We will be welcoming 80 new citizens during the ceremony,’’ he said.

Cr Bradbery said roads around the harbour would be closed and some public transport would run until 11pm to keep the event accessible.

Mrs Williams, who is the CEO of drama institute NIDA, holds Wollongong close to her heart.

She said she was looking forward to being part of the day’s celebrations. 

‘‘The most important part is the recognition of the community,’’ she said.

‘‘There will be a lot of people in positions of leadership here on the day and it is important to recognise these people as role models in the community.

‘‘As a city, Wollongong is quite spread out and it is nice to come together for a day to celebrate our nation.’’

Wollongong Harbour will host Australia Day events until 8pm, with the annual fireworks display rounding off the celebrations at 9pm.