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.
Travellers can save 20% on multi-day scenic rail tours across New Zealand for 2026-27. The sale runs from December 26 to January 31, 2026. Book online with promo code EARLYBD27.
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.
Discover where to find the crispiest, most authentic Portuguese tarts in the Illawarra region. From Wollongong to Shellharbour, we reveal the bakeries locals swear by.
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.
Undercover Michelin Guide inspectors are now in New Zealand, anonymously assessing restaurants in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch & Queenstown. The inaugural guide for Oceania launches in 2026. Discover the culinary talent set for global recognition.
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.
A major redevelopment plan for Braddon's historic Coggan's Bakery and Waves Carwash sites proposes 13-storey apartments, a luxury hotel, and a public park. Discover the details of this transformative project for Canberra's inner north.
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.
The Western Force have revealed their new New Balance home and away jerseys for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, marking a fresh partnership and a nod to club heritage.
Popular Scarborough pizzeria General Public Food Co. opens its new family-friendly, gluten-free venue in Marmion. Open from 6am daily for coffee, brunch & sourdough pizza.
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.
A car fleeing police crashed into a power pole on the New England Highway at Rutherford, causing lane closures and traffic delays. Read the latest updates.
The NFL playoff picture sharpens as desperate Chiefs keep hopes alive with OT win, while Giants become first team eliminated. Analysis of hot teams and rising rookies.
West Coast Eagles commence preseason training with new coach Adam Simpson and several fresh faces. Get the latest updates on player movements and training observations.
Alarming new data reveals Townsville parents are battling perinatal depression in silence. Learn the signs and where to find crucial support services in our community.
Queensland government welcomes newest residents with special Cairns event. Minister Leanne Linard celebrates families at community gathering. Discover what makes Queensland special.
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.