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.
ACT Policing holds serious concerns for 49-year-old Carmen Johnson, missing from Monash since December 22. She may be in a white 2023 Mazda CX-5. Anyone with information urged to call 131 444.
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 Wollongong magistrate has identified major problems with the prosecution's case against a man charged over the 1993 disappearance of Pauline Sowry, but denied bail due to alleged threats against police. Read the latest court developments.
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.
Deputy State Coroner finds Mortal Sin drummer Wayne Campbell died shortly after vanishing from his Warrawong home in August 2022. The inquest details his final movements and legacy.
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.
An urgent search is underway for Barry, 78, missing from Cliftleigh. Follow live updates and learn how you can help. The community is urged to report any sightings.
Volunteers have discovered a phone and a makeshift shelter believed to belong to Celine Cremer, missing in Tasmania since 2023. Police are now joining the search effort.
Police and community are searching for Andrew Leggett, 56, missing from Belmont. Follow live updates on the Newcastle Herald blog for breaking news across the Hunter.
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.
A coronial inquest and new podcast will investigate the baffling 2014 disappearance of Ben Chisholm on Magnetic Island. What happened to the young man?
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.
Police are urgently seeking public assistance to locate a 14-year-old Cairns girl last seen in Manunda on November 28. Her family is deeply concerned for her welfare.
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 Cram Foundation celebrates a year of innovation, expanding its Supported Independent Living homes through co-design. CEO Alisha Musker outlines their commitment to choice and a future-ready organisation.
South Australian police have launched a large-scale search for a missing man after his car was discovered abandoned near a popular beach. Authorities are urging the public for any information.
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.
South Australian Police have launched a large-scale search for a missing man in the Adelaide Hills. Authorities are urging the public for any information.
Police are treating the disappearance of 71-year-old Wayne Pedro Morse from Mackay as suspicious. Two crime scenes have been declared as detectives appeal for public help.
South Australian sailor Deirdre 'Cookie' Sibly and French companion found dead after distress signal in dangerous Mozambique Channel waters. Read the full story.
Emergency services suspend search for 18-year-old swimmer at Little Bay Beach near South West Rocks. Multi-agency operation to resume Monday morning.
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.
WA Police urgently seek public help to find Declan Ranger, 5, last seen in South Carnarvon. The non-verbal boy was wearing red singlet and black jumper.