Take a trip down memory lane with the Illawarra Mercury's photo gallery showcasing decades of local Christmas Day traditions, from beach barbecues to backyard cricket. See the festive spirit in action.
As the Illawarra Hawks prepare for their third straight NBL Christmas game, we explore whether sport has a place in Aussie holiday traditions. Insights from players and fans.
Welfare groups warn of increasing financial hardship in WA this festive season. Anglicare CEO calls for community vigilance as emergency relief requests surge. #Christmas #CostOfLiving
Santa Claus has a special festive message for Illawarra children in 2025, outlining his three simple rules for Christmas Eve and revealing details about his ancient sleigh. Get the full story.
Get into the festive spirit with The West's ultimate guide to the best Christmas movies. From 'Elf' to 'Love Actually', our picks will delight the whole family this Christmas Eve.
Over 150 volunteers served a festive feast to up to 1200 people at the 25th Samaritans Christmas Lunch in Newcastle, providing vital community support during tough economic times.
Australian chefs Courtney Roulston and Michael Weldon create show-stopping Christmas desserts. Get the recipes for a Fruit Mince Pie Ice Cream Bombe and a Mango Berry Baked Alaska.
Chefs Courtney Roulston and Michael Weldon reveal their favourite Christmas side dish recipes. Get easy steps for a Heirloom Tomato Caesar and Tzatziki Potato Salad to wow your guests.
The Pod Well Travelled dives into festive customs worldwide, from Germany's markets to Japan's KFC Christmas. Discover the holiday magic. Listen to the episode now!
Harley and John's Seafood in Fairy Meadow faced massive Christmas Eve demand, selling five tonnes of prawns and thousands of oysters as queues formed before dawn. Locals share their festive feast plans.
Upgrade your festive feast with these quick and delicious prawn entree recipes from Coles culinary experts Courtney Roulston and Michael Weldon. Perfect for a last-minute Christmas menu boost.
As Christmas nears, thousands flock to Chadstone shopping centre and Sydney Fish Market for last-minute gifts and seafood. Get the latest on festive crowds and travel.
Staff at Townsville University Hospital have transformed the children's ward into a winter wonderland, bringing festive joy to young patients and their families this holiday season.
Townsville's iconic Christmas trike is back, delivering festive cheer and free lollies across the city. Discover the heartwarming story behind this local tradition.
While Christianity declines in Australia, its followers remain the backbone of practical charity, especially at Christmas. This is a tribute to their quiet, year-round service.
Legal academic Emma Garlett explores why the pressure to be merry at Christmas can be isolating, offering practical advice for setting boundaries and finding true connection.
Perth is set for a record-breaking Christmas scorcher, with a forecast minimum of 26C marking the hottest morning in over a century. Authorities issue heat and fire warnings as families stock up on seafood.
Illawarra restaurants, pubs, and hotels are experiencing high demand for Christmas Day dining as families opt to avoid the stress of cooking at home. Discover the festive menus and prices on offer.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese uses his 2025 Christmas address to honour victims of the Bondi terror attack, calling for peace and unity. Read the full tribute.
From classic rom-coms to Santa action flicks, discover the 12 definitive categories of Christmas films to plan your perfect holiday viewing. Find your new festive favourite.
Albion Park Village Meats sees a 25% surge in roast orders as Illawarra residents prioritise festive feasts. Owner Glenn Stewart says 'people find the money for Christmas'.
New data reveals Australia's laid-back approach to Christmas shopping, with 9% buying on Christmas Day. Discover the trends and total spending forecast for 2024. Plan your gifts now!
Geraldton is set for a sweltering 43-degree Christmas Day, capping off a severe heatwave. Find out how the city plans to cope and the record it's chasing.
Wollongong-born Jenna Owen co-writes and stars in the off-beat festive comedy 'Nugget is Dead: A Christmas Story', a modern Aussie family tale premiering on Stan. Discover the local inspiration.
Perth chef Sean Cridland shares a budget-friendly three-course Christmas menu for eight, costing under $16 per person. Get his recipes for a festive roast turkey, melon wreath, and Oreo truffles.
Perth chef Steve Finch shares his show-stopping Christmas side dish: crispy salt and vinegar Brussels sprouts with a smoky chorizo dressing and goat's cheese. Get the full recipe.
Your essential guide to Geelong's Christmas and New Year trading hours for 2023. Find out when supermarkets, shops, and services are open over the festive season.
Amidst cost-of-living pressures and global conflicts, celebrating Christmas is a vital act of resilience and connection for Australian families. Discover why.
A new survey reveals West Australian women are Australia's most likely to receive disappointing Christmas presents. Discover the nation's gift-giving trends and what Aussies really want.
Columnist Joe Spagnolo argues that amid global conflict and economic strain, the unifying message of Christmas is vital for Australia's national spirit. Read his compelling case.