7NEWS Perth's Adrian Barich reflects on a year dominated by sport, from Jacob Kiplimo's mind-bending half-marathon record to Min Woo Lee's PGA Tour breakthrough and unforgettable moments in AFL, cricket, and tennis.
Relive the triumphs and heartbreaks of an epic year in Australian sport, from AFL retirements and Ashes glory to shock exits and historic wins. Dive into the full review now.
WA Police will have a highly visible presence at Perth's massive NYE fireworks, expected to draw over 100,000 people. Discover event details and safety advice.
Discover the brilliant but overlooked TV series of 2025, from hilarious comedies to thrilling dramas. Perfect for your Australian summer watchlist.
Geelong's business landscape is shifting in 2025, with several long-standing pubs, cafes, and shops closing their doors. Discover the stories behind the closures and what it means for the city.
From the Paris Olympics to a global sewage emergency, 2025 was a year of extremes. Explore the events that defined the world. Read the full recap now.
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.
Transport for NSW has detailed road closures around Wollongong Harbour for New Year's Eve fireworks. Plan your trip with public transport advice and key times.
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.
From political upheaval with Donald Trump's Senate trial to a record-breaking Telethon, 2025 was a year of major events. Explore the key moments that shaped the world.
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.
Discover the films that captivated Australian audiences in 2025, from major franchise hits to unexpected indie favourites. See if your top pick made the list!
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.
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.
Brace for a mixed bag of extreme weather this Christmas 2025 across Australia's capitals. From scorching heat in Perth to potential storms in Sydney, check the full forecast to plan your festive day.
The City of Canning invites residents to a free New Year's Day concert and fireworks display at Shelley Foreshore on January 1, 2026. Enjoy live music, family activities and a stunning finale over the Canning River. Plan your visit now.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.