In February 2018, two UOW researchers joined an international leadership development voyage to Antarctica and got more than they bargained for.

Geographer and environmental scientist Dr Sarah Hamylton and PhD candidate in molecular biology Rachelle Balez took to the Southern Ocean with 80 other women scientists on a two week journey that tested not only their intellectual and physical limits, but their personal limits too.

In this talk, Sarah and Rachelle will reflect on what they expected from the Homeward Bound experience, what they learned about working with others on board, and how it will influence their future careers as female scientists, driven by a passion for preserving the environment and saving lives.

Illawarra Brewery, WIN Entertainment Centre, Harbour St, Wollongong​ – 5.30pm - 6.30pm. FREE

Spiegeltent Opening Night

The lawn in front of the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre has been transformed with an antique mirrored big top – the Wollongong Spiegeltent – ready to host an array of shows until May 6.

Check out the full program HERE.

Read More: Local shows just as important to big names in the Spiegeltent

Aladdin Junior

Presented by the Illawarra Youth Arts Project, this enchanting musical adventure will run until April 22 at Project Cenral 130 Keira Street, Wollongong.

Based on the iconic animated film, with an Academy Award-winning score by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, Disney’s Aladdin JR. is sure to send audiences soaring on a flying carpet ride filled with romance and adventure.

When the street urchin, Aladdin, vies for the attention of the beautiful princess, Jasmine, he uses a genie's magic power to become a prince in order to marry her. Iago, Jafar, the Genie and more are here in Disney’s Aladdin JR., a musical adventure filled with magic.

Tickets via www.trybooking.com 

The Phoenix presents Rent

Rent follows the ups and downs of a year in the life of a group of impoverished, artistic friends living in Manhattan’s Bohemian East Village often referred to Alphabet City.

Mark, an aspiring filmmaker, struggles to find his place in the world and a way of expressing what he wants to say; his roommate Roger, an HIV-positive musician who found his career cut short after becoming ill, wonders how he will leave his mark before he dies. Mimi and exotic dancer at the cat Scratch Club and Angel a gender fluid artist look for true love as they face the harsh reality of life as HIV-positive young people, while the business like upcoming lawyer Joanne seeks fidelity from her wild-child performance artist girlfriend Maureen.

RENT runs at the Phoenix theatre from April 13 to 28 Friday Saturday, Wednesday nights at 8 pm and Sundays at 3 PM tickets are $25 and $20 concession.

Booking advised online at www.phoenixtheatre.net.au 

1984 at the Roo Theatre

Although the year 1984 has long passed, George Orwall's chilling prophecy of the future is timlier than ever in today's contemporary society.

Within the superstate Oceania, the omniscient Big Brother holds its citizens in constant surveillance while perpetual war rages. Protagonists Winston and Julie strive to resist the totalitarian regime that utilizes psychological manipulation and physical discipline to brainwash society.

Roo Theatre, Addison Street Shellharbour until April 28. For tickets visit www.trybooking.com 

Red Alert!

In celebration of Wollongong Art Gallery’s Ruby Anniversary, the BlueScope Gallery will be transformed into a heart-warming space filled with a blush of red works from the collection.

Paintings and works on paper by Annette Bezor, John Coburn, Fred Cress, Lawrence Daws, Lesley Dumbrell, Lise Floistad, Fiona Foley, John Havilah, Col Jordan, Lindy Lee, Suzie Marston, Janie Nakamarra, Susan Norie, John Peart and Andrew Sibley.

Running at Wollongong Art Gallery  until September 23. FREE

Red Hot Summer Tour

Catch Icehouse, Baby Animals, Mark Seymour & The Undertow, The Black Sorrows, Boom Crash Opera, Shannon Noll and Pseudo Echo on one stage.

Kiama Showgrounds from 1pm. Tickets via www.ticketmaster.com.au 

Kiama Concert

Eight years ago Sing Australia formed a community choir in Kiama. On Sunday the group will host a free concert in appreciation of the support it has received over the years. The choir now has 50 members with most living in the Kiama Municipality.

Featuring Sing Australia Kiama and Gareth Ward MP on his violin.

The program will include songs from John Lennon, Leonard Cohen, The Carpenters and The Seekers as well as featuring some great Australian composers.

Joyce Wheatley Community Centre, Hindmarsh Park, Kiama – from 2.30pm to 4pm.