Wollongong to host dual NYE fireworks displays in 2025
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.
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 long-derelict Dimmeys Arcade in Townsville's CBD has been shrouded in scaffolding and mesh after council action over serious safety concerns. Read the full story.
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.
Canberra's Status Living, led by Matthew Bellingham and Brent Redmayne, wins top honours at the 2025 HIA Awards for both custom and spec homes, now offering integrated landscaping.
The WA government is drafting new building contract laws to protect consumers and reform the troubled construction industry. Learn about the key changes and what they mean for you.
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.
Lake Macquarie's historic Awaba House, gutted by fire in 2019, is set to reopen in mid-2026 as a premier dining destination under The Catering Group, promising local food and community focus.
A growing movement sees Australian children earning, saving, and investing their money. Experts say starting young with tools like Vanguard Personal Investor Kids can build a $1 million retirement fund. Discover how families are giving kids a financial he
Newcastle's nationally significant maritime heritage collection is homeless as its lease expires in March 2026. Councillors clash over accountability and solutions for the 8,500-item cache.
A beloved Townsville institution, The Heritage Exchange, is closing its doors after three decades. Discover the story behind its legacy and what's next for the iconic building.
Controversial new building height limits are set for Main North Road in Prospect, dubbed a 'wedding cake' plan. Get the latest on the approval and upcoming North Adelaide golf course designs.
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.
Townsville's CBD revitalisation faces major delays as construction costs skyrocket. Experts warn projects are becoming unviable, threatening the city's economic future. Read the full analysis.
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.
West Australian families face a building industry 'snake-pit' as the government reviews contract laws. Minister Buti promises 2026 reforms after 740 survey responses highlighted systemic failures.
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.
The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River has approved plans to demolish the heritage-listed Inne Town Backpackers and replace it with a larger facility for seasonal workers. Read the full story.
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 Crownview apartment complex in Wollongong remains vacant due to serious defects, despite a severe housing crisis. Buyers await resolution a decade on. Read the full investigation.
Residents of Maitland can now share ideas for the future of the former Maitland Hospital site. Public consultation is open until March 1, 2026, to decide on community uses for the heritage-listed location.
Newcastle Council approves changes to an eight-storey Hall Street development, swapping one-bedroom units for three-bedroom apartments in response to market demand. Read the full details.
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.
Canberra's new Embassy CBR has opened in the Sydney Building, transforming from a cocktail bar to a nightclub. Owners aim to capture a global vibe amidst light rail construction challenges.
A major police operation unfolded in Sydney's southwest, while a teenage girl was critically injured in a roof collapse at an abandoned courthouse. Get the latest breaking news updates.
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.
The formerly troubled Wonder Apartments in Wollongong celebrates a topping-out ceremony after overcoming major safety issues. The project is now on track for completion in late 2026.
Perth faces a critical apartment shortage as construction costs soar. A severe skilled labour crisis is making new projects unviable, deepening the housing affordability crisis. Discover the solution.