Life at UOW: Living on Campus East: 5 things to do when you're on a budget

When living at Campus East, there are numerous things you can do in the area whilst sticking to a budget.

1. Have a swim at Fairy Meadow Beach= FREE

Only a five minute walk from the Campus East grounds, Fairy Meadow surf and swim beach will keep you occupied for hours. Luckily, this activity costs nothing!

Picture taken from Fairy Meadow Beach tourist website

2. Experience the outdoors= $11

One of the most beautiful areas in the Wollongong region is the Minnamurra rainforest. Located at Jamberoo (30 minutes south of Campus East), the rainforest has had walking ramps built all around it so people can experience its wonders, which features a breathtaking waterfall.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it was totally worth the drive. It’s amazing to take some time out, relax and appreciate whats around you”, says 1^st year Media and Communications student Jessica Giezakamp.

This will cost your around $11.00 when you enter the park.

3. Have a drink at Unibar= $20

Unibar is located on the UOW campus, and is the primary socialising spot on campus. Students come after Uni to have a drink, eat good food and listen to Australian musician’s play their music live. This is a good place for unwinding and having a drink and depending on how much you drink/eat will probably cost from around $20.00.

Entrance to the Unibar, located opposite the Uni Hall

4. Go to Jamberoo Action Park= $39

Jamberoo Action Park is located in the country suburb of Jamberoo which is about 30 minutes south from Campus East. Jamberoo is particularly noted for its fun water rides; however, there is also dry land fun such as tobogganing and race cars. Tickets cost $39.00 for adults for the entire day, and apart from food there are no additional costs.

5. Go shopping at Crown street mall= $40+

Crown street mall is located in the city centre of Wollongong, and is abound with shops of all sorts. The Campus East shuttle bus will drop your at the doors and pick you up (runs every thirty-minutes on weekends). The cost of this is entirely dependent upon you (although you certainly can catch a bargain!).