February 18, 2022

Students to kick off academic year with Campus Fest

Event to combine faculty orientation week sessions with free music, entertainment and food

Thousands of students will experience their first taste of campus life when the University of Wollongong’s (UOW) Orientation Week kicks off next week (Monday, 21 February).

The event marks the start of Autumn session and also the return of students to UOW’s Australian campuses, following two years of pandemic-induced restrictions.

It also signals the return to campus of the majority of UOW staff, who have been working from home since last July.

The much-anticipated O-Week will look  different in 2022 with the launch of UOW’s inaugural Campus Fest. In partnership with Yours & Owls, Campus Fest is a jam-packed, rollicking week of live music and entertainment to start the academic year with a bang.

Each day, from 11am to 3pm, there will be free games, entertainment, food, markets, and much more. At the Music Zone, on Oval 2 near Uni Active, some of Australia’s best artists will perform, including Montaigne, Ziggy Ramo, Touch Sensitive, Tiarnie, and Alex The Astronaut.

There will also be the traditional Pool Party, Trivia Night, Comedy Night, and O-Party.

UOW Vice-Chancellor Professor Patricia M. Davidson said: “We’ve missed seeing our students on campus – so we’re throwing a party to welcome them back!”

“We want them to be able to experience all that UOW has to offer, so in addition to welcoming new commencing students to our beautiful campus, we’re holding this new Campus Fest event to celebrate and thank returning students and staff for their ongoing support throughout the pandemic.”

Students will also participate in essential academic activities, such as faculty orientation and information sessions.

Professor Theo Farrell, UOW’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Life), said the University was excited to see the campus come to life and for students to be immersed in the fun of Campus Fest.

“Campus Fest is a wonderful time of year, when students get to finally come on campus and experience the excitement and atmosphere of life at University,” Professor Farrell said.

“After two years of the pandemic, this year feels particularly worth celebrating, and making the most of the festivities that will be on offer.

“We are thrilled to welcome our commencing first-year students and welcome back those in their later years of study.”

Campus Fest will begin on Monday, 21 February, at UOW’s Wollongong Campus. Campus Fest will be held at UOW’s regional and Sydney campuses throughout February and March.

For more details, visit https://www.uow.edu.au/campus-fest/

COVID-safe guidelines will be in place to ensure the safety of everyone on campus, with face masks to be worn at indoor venues and buildings, and social distancing to be maintained at all outdoor activities (including being seated during performances).

With students, staff and visitors returning to UOW, please note that face masks are required while indoors on our campuses (including shared use of vehicles, buses et cetera) and should be worn outdoors where social distancing cannot be maintained.  

COVID-19 vaccination is strongly recommended for staff, students and visitors attending University campuses.