Top 6 Illawarra bushwalks perfect for kids these holidays
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.
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.
A desperate search for a 34-year-old fisherman missing from Shell Cove's Bushrangers Bay has been scaled back. Emergency services combed the area for two days without success.
Surf Life Saving WA urges families to swim between the flags this Christmas after 13 coastal drownings last summer. Learn how to spot a rip and stay safe.
Aussie favourite Surf Dive n' Ski launches its epic Boxing Day sale with discounts up to 60% on brands like Billabong and Roxy. Shop summer swimwear and gear from just $20.
WA authorities urge vigilance as heatwave hits. Over 40% of toddler drownings occur in home pools. Check your fence, close the gate, and maintain constant supervision.
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.
Amended plans for a $4 million housing development on Camp Road in Anglesea have been formally lodged. Get the latest details on the proposed units and community impact.
Royal Life Saving Australia urges vigilance as nearly 20 drownings occurred last Christmas-New Year period. Experts warn of hidden dangers at rivers, lakes, and unpatrolled beaches.
Over 300 young members of Shellharbour Surf Life Saving Club celebrated the festive season with games, water activities and a foil-surfing Santa. See the gallery.
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.
A thief was caught on CCTV stealing from a Bulli Beach Surf Life Saving Club volunteer during a busy patrol. The brazen incident occurred just hours after a vigil for the Bondi attack victims. Police are investigating.
Surf lifesavers from Austinmer to Kiama stood in silent reflection on Illawarra beaches to honour those killed in the Bondi Beach terror attack. The community joined for a National Day of Reflection.
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.
Geelong enjoys a perfect sunny day with a top of 24°C. Get the full forecast, UV index, and weekend outlook for the Bellarine and Surf Coast.
The Hunter region is enduring a severe heatwave, with inland areas reaching 43C. Lifesavers urge swimmers to stay safe at patrolled beaches as the extreme conditions continue through the weekend.
Jamie Oliver simplifies festive cooking in his SBS special, while ABC and SBS screen docs on surfing's gender pay gap and Luke Perry's legacy. Your guide to December's essential viewing.
Port Stephens Council's decision to keep 105 car spaces closed at Birubi Point this summer has locals fearing for swimmer safety and predicting traffic gridlock. Read the full story.
Surf Coast Shire Council urgently requests $3 million from the state government to repair a complex landslide on the Great Ocean Road. The damage threatens the iconic route's stability and safety.
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.
Bondi Beach lifesavers sprang into action during a mass shooting, performing CPR and rescues amid active gunfire. Learn how their training and bravery saved lives.
A Cardiff mum reveals how she saves $260 on Christmas groceries using loyalty points. Plus, a local startup network wins a national award and a new luxury golf course is on the way for the Hunter.
A hazardous surf warning is in place for Newcastle as cloudy weather sets in. Stay updated with live news, traffic, and weather from the Hunter Region.
The Ellis Beach Surf Life Saving Club has triumphantly reopened after a devastating fire, securing its future just in time for its 100th anniversary. Discover the community's incredible comeback story.
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.