Bondi Attack, Newcastle Baths & Hamilton Safety in Focus
Community letters react to the Bondi violence, debate alcohol at Newcastle Ocean Baths, and demand action on Hamilton safety. Read the full spectrum of local opinion.
Community letters react to the Bondi violence, debate alcohol at Newcastle Ocean Baths, and demand action on Hamilton safety. Read the full spectrum of local opinion.
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.
Newcastle Herald readers share strong views on architectural facadism, the heritage-listed Ocean Baths, high-density risks, and the city's shifting political landscape. Read the full community debate.
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.
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.
A man has died following a house fire in Ocean Grove. Emergency services responded to the blaze on Sunday morning. Read the latest details.
A man has died following a devastating house fire in Ocean Grove. Emergency services responded to the blaze early Monday morning. Read the latest 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.
The Geelong and Ocean Grove communities are in mourning after the sudden passing of beloved local identities Steve and Gaia. Tributes flow for the couple known for their vibrant community spirit.
Rottnest Fast Ferries' new custom-built vessel, Ocean Master, starts its first full season to Rottnest Island on December 5, 2025. Book your trip from Hillarys Boat Harbour now.
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.
Newcastle Council defends its $39.8 million ocean baths upgrade as heritage advocates demand the DA be withdrawn over transparency and alcohol concerns. Full details inside.
Australian cruise company Aurora Expeditions reveals major environmental achievements including ocean regeneration, 90% emission reduction with biofuel, and microplastic filtration technology.
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.
Gold Coast accountant Cory Hill transforms into a global surf ski champion, targeting his seventh Doctor title in Perth's prestigious ocean race with a $300,000 prize pool. Discover his incredible journey.
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.
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.
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.
City of Newcastle's executive manager Nick Kaiser responds to criticism of community consultation processes, explaining the principles behind transparent engagement.
City of Newcastle submits development application for final stage of heritage-listed Ocean Baths upgrade, featuring revised change rooms and enhanced facilities. Have your say on the DA.
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Treasurer Jim Chalmers addresses Japan's national security concerns about South Korea's Hanwha acquiring Australian shipbuilder Austal. Read the latest developments.
Wollongong police are searching for three wanted men - Dylan Afranis, Jay McDonald, and Jake Peak - across the Illawarra region. Authorities urge public assistance.
US rapper Eminem files trademark lawsuit against Sydney-based beach accessory company Swim Shady, alleging name similarity to his Slim Shady persona. Read the full story.
Over 80 swimmers participated in Coalcliff's beach to Bombie ocean swim, celebrating Dave Winner's inspiring recovery and life-saving foundation. Discover the winners and community impact.
The Bellarine Peninsula community is grieving the tragic loss of 19-year-old Flynn Gregory. Tributes flow for the beloved teen remembered for his vibrant spirit.
Newcastle councillors receive clear technical advice that open-air dressing rooms at Newcastle Ocean Baths contravene modern design standards, creating legal obligations.
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.