Of the 291 current members at June 2023, over 2/3rds live in the Wollongong LGA, followed by 16% who live in Shellharbour LGA. Only 5% (N=15) of members live in Kiama LGA and 10% (N=27)
live outside the Illawarra, including Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla and Greater Sydney regions. Given the population growth in the Shellharbour LGA, publicity of Illawarra Ramblers will target this area through community Facebook posts and other activities. There are slightly more female (53%) than male (47%) members. Just under half the current members (46%) have been with Illawarra Ramblers for over eight years, some considerably more than that, and 29% are newer members of 1-2 years duration. While most of the membership is aged over 60 years, just under one third are younger. This influx of newer and also younger members brings fresh ideas and opportunities for Illawarra Ramblers and also increases the pool from which to recruit leaders.