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.
The popular Prospect venue RentaRack Mekko Market and Cafe is closing its doors this weekend. The owners hint at a potential return in a new format. Read more about this local favourite's future.
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.
Beloved Northbridge local and WA Pride pioneer Marc Highett, 66, is undergoing cancer treatment. His Moon Cafe colleagues launched a surprise GoFundMe, leaving him overwhelmed with gratitude. Read his inspiring story.
The City of Bayswater welcomes Grind @ The Rise to The Rise precinct, activating a long-vacant space. The cafe offers local jobs, barista training, and healthy fare. Read more.
April Ooi reviews Ancom in Mount Lawley, a vibrant cafe serving rare Vietnamese dishes like banh xeo and banh khot. Discover the must-try shaking beef and Hanoi-style pho.
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.
Try Josh Gregory's vibrant raw tuna dish at home. Plus, get the latest on Frenchie's move to Darby Street and the new Haze cafe opening in Stockton this summer.
Discover the lush, secret garden oasis in central Geelong that's the heart of Funk by Botanical Brew cafe. A tranquil escape with a mission for community and sustainability.
A new live traffic app aims to help Perth commuters navigate the 12-month closure of Fremantle Traffic Bridge from February 1. Get real-time updates and plan your journey.
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.
Residents in WA's Shire of Harvey are fighting to save their cherished post-swim hot chips after the local leisure centre cafe closed. A 650-signature petition has been presented to council.
Harvey Shire locals rally with 650-signature petition to save their iconic post-swim hot chips after the Leschenault Leisure Centre cafe closes. Council cites financial losses and need for upgrades.
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.
April Ooi discovers Pagi Pagi Coffee in Rivervale, where Indonesian flavours meet specialty coffee. Find matcha lattes and authentic treats in Perth.
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.
WA Nationals leader Shane Love calls state government's 2030 coal-fired power station shutdown target unrealistic. Learn why he says it threatens energy security.
This week in Illawarra courts featured dramatic cases including a drug syndicate member pleading guilty, a chef convicted of rape, and a murder case dismissal due to mental health. Read the full details.
Discover how Pedro Kim turned his travel dreams into Voyagers Cafe, a unique hub in Gwangju inspiring locals with global adventures. Explore this traveller's sanctuary today!
Former owner David Pennington reveals Bird Rock Cafe's wild history in new book - from police raids to celebrity visits. Discover the untold stories behind this iconic Australian venue.
Wollongong police are searching for three wanted men - Dylan Afranis, Jay McDonald, and Jake Peak - across the Illawarra region. Authorities urge public assistance.
Thousands lined the M1 to cheer the 2025 Illawarra Convoy, a massive truck procession that has raised over $27 million since 2005 for families facing life-threatening illnesses.
After six successful years, Townsville's beloved Tide Cafe and Catering owner shares heartfelt reflections and announces exciting upcoming changes. Discover what's next for this local favorite.
Donald Trump faces mounting pressure as the longest US government shutdown and renewed Epstein allegations test his administration's stability. Read the full analysis.
The Wollongong and Illawarra region has secured a top 10 ranking for pet-friendliness, boasting excellent veterinary services, dog parks, and community support. Discover what makes this region a paradise for pet owners.
Wollongong residents strongly support adding a cafe and visitor centre at the Botanic Garden's main entrance. Council considers commercial interest amid budget challenges.
Illawarra restaurant owners share mixed feelings as Menulog ceases Australian operations after two decades. Discover the impact on local businesses and the shift to Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Popular North Wollongong cafe Diggies will close for at least six months from February 2026 due to essential sea wall construction. Learn how this impacts locals and the new lease agreement.