an enduring community feel
Nestled in the foothills of the Illawarra Escarpment, a visit to Balgownie reveals a charming village vibe and a glimpse into its past.
Words Diana Ioppolo @ignitecontent
Images Micaela Adams @roamwithmimi
Like many northern suburbs of the Illawarra, Balgownie was transformed by the discovery of coal. The once-quiet farmland turned into a thriving mining community after the opening of Mount Pleasant Coalmine in 1861. Settlers were drawn to the area, leading to the opening of Balgownie Primary School in 1889 and the first shops that later formed the Balgownie Village Centre. While the mine has long closed and the suburb has grown, the community atmosphere remains.
A blend of past and present
Today, Balgownie Village is a bustling hub of shops and services. At its heart, you’ll find the iconic Bally Hotel, which first started trading in 1904. From its early days as a place to unwind for the local mining workers, the hotel has grown to become a central social hub and a significant sponsor of local football and cricket teams.
The 1990s saw a temporary threat to the pub as developers proposed alternate plans for the land. Recognising the historical and cultural significance of the building, the community banded together to quash the proposal and protect the pub through a heritage listing. Supported by the South Coast Labour Council, the proposal gained significant support, and developers abandoned their plans.
Today, visitors can admire the renovated and restored original features of the building, including the wrap-around balcony with views of the escarpment. The pub hosts band nights, live music, functions, family days and more, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Away from the village, a walk through Balgownie reveals further nods to its history, such as the Balgownie War Memorial Park. The park features a large stone monument and remembrance tree to honour the local soldiers who fought in World War 1. Further north towards Tarrawanna is the Miners Memorial Park. Home to the Miners Tribute Monument, visitors can learn more about the historical contribution of coal mining to the region.
Home to Australia’s oldest football club
The community’s long-standing support for local sporting clubs has seen Balgownie become home to Australia’s oldest running association football club. The Balgownie Rangers, founded in 1883, is a club full of tradition that has produced several famous players over the decades. These include James ‘Judy’ Masters (who is listed in the Football Australia Hall of Fame), Tom Thompson, Dave Ward and Frank Smith in the early 1900s, George Barlow in the 1950s and Matt Horsley, who went on to captain the Wollongong Wolves. This history is honoured on Judy Master’s Oval, the home ground of the Balgownie Rangers Football Club and Balgownie Juniors soccer clubs. It serves as the training ground for both the Rangers and feeder club Balgownie Magpies.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
The Bally Hotel
Eat, drink, and catch a gig at the historic Bally Hotel. Coming up on the schedule are family fun days, two-up rounds on Anzac Day, and live music from Brazen Lyres and the Steve Edmunds Band.
Il Nido
Specialising in rustic, home-style Northern Italian cuisine, this family-run business has been offering a local slice of Italy for over 45 years. Don’t miss the Italian decor, family history, and Venetian cuisine.
Mad Cap Cafe, Nourished, Ariel’s
Balgownie locals and visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to coffee, breakfast, and lunch options at these local cafes.
WHERE TO SHOP
Capri Floral
Capri Floral is a florist and gift store offering premium floral bouquets, floral designs, and a curated selection of home and self-care products.
Online store: fleurescentflowers.com.au/online-store
Ivy and Quill
Shop at Ivy and Quill for ladies' clothing, accessories and shoes made for every woman, with fresh stock sourced every season.
WHERE TO VISIT
Geoff Birrell Fine Art
Art lovers can visit the studio of local fine art photographer and painter, Geoff Birrell to see his latest work and artwork for sale across black and white photography, colour photography, and art on paper.
Bally Pilates
Bally Pilates is a boutique Pilates studio offering small group classes of up to seven people. Their signature style blends classic and contemporary techniques for a modern approach, with online on-demand classes also available.