History buffs can score $5k for uncovering the dark secrets of Wollongong

Run by Wollongong City Libraries, the Local History Prize is calling for adults to enter an original piece of research that explores an aspect of our local history of their choosing, in 5,000 to 10,000 words.

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Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said each entry received would be added into the library's Local Studies collection as a way to contribute to the ongoing documentation of the Illawarra's history.

"We've been running variations of this competition since 2016, and have received some fascinating entries over the years, that shine a light into hidden corners of our past and tell our community's stories," said Cr Bradbery.

In 2021, the competition was open to primary school students, with the winner a Year 4 student from Corrimal East Primary School, whose entry shined a light on the Dalfram sculpture at Port Kembla and the story behind it.

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In 2020, it was again open for adults over the age of 18, with Andre Brett named winner for his paper The while blows and we are whisked into a tunnel: Railways and the environment in Illawarra, 1870s-1915.

Entries close for this year's competition on Friday July 29.

For more details, visit www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au

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