The Illawarra Hawks' NBL26 title defence is on life support after a crucial 101-96 home loss to the New Zealand Breakers. Coach Justin Tatum laments turnovers and a persistent free-throw disparity.
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.
Our review of the animated film 'Grand Prix of Europe', a family-friendly racing adventure. Is this English-dubbed German movie worth your cinema trip this summer?
Celebrate Australia Day 2026 with free family entertainment at Coogee Beach. Enjoy live music, cultural performances, wildlife encounters, and classic Aussie competitions.
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.
Crown Perth rang in 2026 with a glamorous 80s-themed gala, celebrating its 40-year history from Burswood Island Casino. See the exclusive party highlights and history exhibition.
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.
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.
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.
Struggling with the school holidays? Cairns parents reveal their top tips for keeping kids entertained, from bowling to beach adventures. Discover local secrets for a stress-free break.
Perth is set for a blockbuster 2026 with a huge lineup of world-class entertainment, sport, and culture. From Lady Gaga to the Commonwealth Games, here's your guide to the year's must-see events.
Townsville's 2032 Olympic legacy plan has been dramatically scaled back, with a new arena proposal axed. The city will now focus on upgrading existing venues. Read the full story.
LG's latest entertainment bundles offer up to $1,000 off when you pair a premium TV with a matching soundbar. Perfect for summer upgrades, the deal runs until 4 Jan 2026.
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.
Qantas passengers spent over 94 million hours watching movies and shows in 2025. Discover the most popular films and series, from Wicked to Bluey, that captivated Aussie travellers.
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.
Perth shed its 'boring' tag with an epic 2025 of live music. Relive the best concerts from AC/DC, Drake, Kylie Minogue, Katy Perry, Rufus Du Sol, and Metallica. See what made each show unforgettable.
Think you're a pop culture expert? Take our ultimate 2025 quiz covering movies, music, TV and celebrity news to prove your knowledge. Challenge yourself now!
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.
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.
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.
Illawarra Hawks co-captain Sam Froling is set for a Christmas miracle, cleared to play against Sydney Kings on December 25 after recovering from a serious achilles injury. Don't miss the 8:30pm tip-off on ESPN.
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.
The Illawarra Mercury unveils its exclusive list of 56 standout young athletes set to dominate courts, fields, pools, and slopes in 2025. Discover the region's future champions.
Lion's Den Collectibles opens in Warrawong Plaza, offering Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering & Warhammer. Owners aim to create a community hub where gamers of all ages can play and connect.
A severe heatwave warning is in effect for the Illawarra, with temperatures predicted to reach 35 degrees Celsius. Learn the details, why it's classified as a heatwave, and how to stay safe.
South Australia leads the nation with new safety rules for adult entertainers after reports of falls and unsanitary conditions. A former worker reveals the industry's hidden dangers.