After 13 successful iterations, Wollongong's beloved comic and pop culture festival Comic Gong will shift to every two years, returning in early 2027.
From its humble beginnings at Corrimal Library, Comic Gong has grown into a major celebration of comics and pop culture in the region. Over the past decade, it has expanded to include artist and trade stalls, cosplay competitions, gaming, workshops and live entertainment, drawing more than 8,000 attendees to Dapto Ribbonwood Centre in 2025.
The festival has proudly showcased the incredible talent of local artists, creators and businesses, making it a true community-driven event.
Delivered by Wollongong City Libraries, Comic Gong is a major undertaking that requires substantial financial and staffing resources—an effort made more challenging by rising costs in recent years.
Wollongong City Council Director of Community Services, Kerry Hunt, said the decision to go biennial was made to ensure the event's sustainability.
"To maintain the quality and scale of an event that has enjoyed such rapid growth, we need to ensure it remains sustainable," said Ms Hunt.
"Moving to every two years means that Comic Gong can continue as a free and inclusive celebration for locals and visitors."
Ms Hunt said the change will also allow the team to explore new opportunities.
"Planning for Comic Gong begins almost as soon as the previous event wraps up. A bit of breathing space will give us fresh eyes and help us continue to deliver the best possible experience for our community, while also growing other programs offered through our libraries."
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown acknowledged the festival's unique role in the community.
"Comic Gong is more than a fun, colourful event. It holds a special place in many hearts as an inclusive space where people connect and share their creativity and passions," Cr Brown said.
"It's also a reminder of the important role libraries play as a 'third place' for people. They are community and cultural hubs where everyone belongs, and everyone benefits from the free spaces, programs and resources."
"I look forward to Comic Gong returning in 2027 and seeing the creativity of our local community and cosplayers."
