Santa's Special 2025 Message for Illawarra Children
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.
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.
Central Coast teacher Mia Sheppard, known as 'Crunchy', is spending eight weeks working as an elf in Santa's Lapland workshop. Discover her magical journey from the Australian summer to the Arctic winter.
Aguia Resources slashes costs and boosts gold recoveries at its Santa Barbara mine in Colombia to 70%, targeting 80% and positive cash flow. Read the full operational turnaround story.
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.
A Townsville City Council worker is delivering Christmas magic to local kids by dressing as Santa on his garbage collection route. Meet the man behind the beard spreading joy.
Alan Evans, former CEO of NRMA and Medicines Australia, now spends his Christmas season as Santa at Canberra Centre, sharing wisdom and joy with families. Discover his heartwarming stories.
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.
A deadly canine parvovirus outbreak is spreading across the Illawarra, claiming one puppy's life. Vets warn the soil-borne virus can linger for years. Protect your pet now.
Thousands of children with disability or illness celebrated at the annual KidsWish Christmas party at Symbio Wildlife Park. The Illawarra Mercury mascot joined the fun.
Illawarra Hawks great Glen Saville opens up on the immense pressure facing the team as their NBL championship defence teeters. Can they turn it around?
A former Dragons star faces crypto theft charges, a man admits years of stepdaughter abuse, and reckless stunts headline a busy week in Wollongong and Port Kembla courts. Read the full wrap-up.
Struggling with Secret Santa? Discover 10 thoughtful, stylish, and budget-friendly gift ideas under $50, perfect for the Australian festive season. Find the perfect present now!
A 48-year-old woman was discovered deceased in a parked vehicle outside the Lake Illawarra police station. Police believe she may have been there for three days. A critical incident has been declared.
A critical Santa shortage in Western Australia has agencies issuing an SOS for teachers and coaches. With under three weeks to go, find out how the festive season is at risk and who's stepping up.
Discover key ways Illawarra residents can support locals in need this Christmas, from donating hampers and gifts to volunteering at community events. Get involved and make a difference.
Belmont Forum transforms Christmas shopping with a free 4D grotto, interactive selfie zones, and daily letter-writing prizes. Discover festive fun for the whole family.
The Wollongong Welsh Choir will hold its last concert this December, ending a 30-year tradition due to dwindling membership and fewer Welsh migrants to the Illawarra region.
Perth families can step into a North Pole wonderland at the Perth Convention Centre from Dec 6-24. The immersive village features Santa, rides, shows & festive attractions.
Discover Dyson's affordable haircare gems for Christmas. From travel minis to nourishing essentials, these under $100 gifts deliver luxury without the hefty price tag. Perfect for Secret Santa or last-minute presents.
The 2014 attempted abduction of April-lee Gillen in Lake Heights remains unsolved. Police believe someone in the Illawarra community knows the identity of the two men in a black BMW SUV.
Santa's Farm in Tullimbar has opened for the Christmas season, offering families the chance to cut down their own real Christmas trees after nearly five years of growth. Local families share their festive traditions.
Caleb Cooper and Corey Keating launch The Boys on Veronica, a fully gluten-free cafe in Warilla responding to community demand for safe, high-quality coeliac-friendly dining options.
Exciting news for aviation fans! Details about the revived Wings Over Illawarra airshow will be revealed next week following AMDA Foundation's withdrawal. Stay tuned for dates and new operators.
New research reveals 70% of Australians are changing gift traditions to save money this Christmas. Discover how Secret Santa and Amazon Haul help beat budget stress.
Discover the Illawarra's best Christmas light displays with the Mercury's 2025 interactive map. Register your home by Dec 10 to be included in this festive spectacle.
Hundreds of children experienced early Christmas magic at McDonald Jones Stadium during Variety's annual party, featuring Santa, gifts, and inclusive activities for all abilities.
Aguia Resources appoints Tim Hosking as CEO to drive Brazilian phosphate production and Colombian gold revival. First phosphate output expected Q1 2026.
Perth families are making pets part of Christmas traditions with FurBaby's Santa Paws sessions. Discover how huskies, cats and even eagles join festive family portraits.