Despite heavy rain and mud, the Albion Park Show 2026 saw strong community turnout. Key events were cancelled, but the demolition derby and pavilion exhibits went ahead. Read more about the resilient 'Biggest Little Show on the Coast'.
Miss Zoe's School of Dance reflects on two decades of teaching thousands of Illawarra children. The studio is celebrating with a massive combined concert and expansion into Calderwood and Tullimbar.
Glenn Fahey, the heart of Glenbernie Orchard, fights stage four glioblastoma. His family and community rally with a GoFundMe and ask for support by visiting the beloved orchard.
The Canberra Kite Flying Festival returns this Sunday, 18 January 2026, from 10am to 5pm on the Patrick White Lawns. Entry is free, but registration is required for this vibrant family day out.
New data reveals the soaring cost of education in the Illawarra for 2026. Parents face up to $336,870 for private schooling, while public education hits $95,000 over 13 years. See the full breakdown.
Former St George Illawarra Dragons NRLW player and NSW captain Maddie Studdon has pleaded not guilty to domestic violence-related charges. The ex-Jillaroo was granted conditional bail.
Stuck for ideas with three weeks of Illawarra school holidays left? From skating in the mall to torchlight walks, here are 10 boredom-busting activities for families.
Hundreds of young athletes competed at the annual Lake Illawarra Athletics summer carnival, now renamed to honour life member Howard McGarry. See results and highlights.
Kickstart your 2026 fitness journey with our guide to the best gym, yoga, and pilates deals across the Illawarra. From $6/week offers to free trials, find your perfect fit.
Townsville's vibrant Chicks in Pink fun run is back on July 28th, uniting the community to raise crucial funds for breast cancer research and support services. Join the sea of pink!
Discover how Graham Brown turned a passion into a profession, capturing iconic Illawarra sporting moments and earning global recognition. His story is one of timing, persistence, and pure love for the game.
Police hold serious concerns for the welfare of 20-year-old Eghan Khun, last seen on King Street, Warrawong in the early hours of Tuesday. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
The annual Tim Gates Classic Fun Run saw thousands of participants hit the streets of Geelong, raising vital funds for the Give Where You Live Foundation. See the highlights and community spirit in action.
Explore a fascinating year from the Illawarra Mercury's history column, featuring tales of drunken tree-chopping, fiery ships, political threats, and vintage crime. Dive into 170 years of local stories.
The Illawarra-Shoalhaven region's 2025 progress, led by Port Kembla's major rezoning, unlocks thousands of jobs in clean energy and manufacturing. Industry leaders warn the region must act now or risk losing its strongest position in a generation.
The Ocean Grove Tranquility Fair brought together thousands for yoga, meditation, and holistic health. Discover how this event fostered community spirit and wellbeing.
A delicious recap of the Illawarra's biggest food stories from 2025, featuring award-winning restaurants, iconic closures, and exciting new openings. Discover the region's culinary heartbeat.
From the Hawks' championship glory to community triumphs and wild weather, Illawarra Mercury photographers Adam McLean, Anna Warr, and Robert Peet share their standout images and stories from a remarkable year.
Ring in 2026 across the Illawarra! Our complete guide covers Wollongong Harbour fireworks, the Summer Carnival, and live music from Royale With Cheese to Touch Sensitive. Find your perfect party.
Hundreds of swimmers braved the waves for the Burson Rock2Ramp Ocean Swim 2025 at Point Roadknight, Anglesea. See the stunning photos and full event recap here.
Discover the best Illawarra pubs and breweries where you can bring your dog this summer. From ocean views to craft beer, find your perfect spot.
Western Australia deploys Tactical Response Group officers to Jewish places of worship and major events as a visible deterrent. See the new security measures in place.
Discover six easy, family-friendly bushwalks in and around the Illawarra, perfect for getting kids outdoors. Includes details on trails, wildlife, and safety tips for a memorable adventure.
Relive the year's most thrilling Illawarra sports stories. From the Hawks' NBL championship to local clubs ending decades-long droughts, discover the moments that defined 2025. Read the full countdown now.
A free community barbecue in Berkeley on Christmas Day, organised by the Beacon of Hope Project, provided food and fellowship to combat isolation during the cost-of-living crisis.
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.
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.
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.
The Illawarra Legal Centre celebrates four decades providing free legal advice and representation to those in need. Discover how volunteers and staff ensure access to justice.
Wollongong revellers face a choice this New Year's Eve: harbour or CBD fireworks? The Illawarra Hotel adds a 9pm CBD show, complementing council's harbour display. Locals share their picks.