Discover how Graham Brown turned a passion into a profession, capturing iconic Illawarra sporting moments and earning global recognition. His story is one of timing, persistence, and pure love for the game.
A visionary plan to repurpose disused Upper Hunter mining pits into interconnected lakes gains momentum, promising water security, tourism, and jobs. Read about the innovative solution.
As a severe heatwave looms, we revisit the Hunter's 1939 furnace that killed scores, halted work, and left a tragic mark on local records. Discover the history to understand the present.
Two teenage boys, aged 12 and 14, have been arrested and charged following an alleged break-in at Muswellbrook Fair Shopping Centre that caused thousands in damage. Read the latest on the police investigation.
A man in his 60s was flown to John Hunter Hospital with chest and back injuries after a glider crash near Ravensworth. Emergency services, including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, responded to the incident.
A rollercoaster year for Hunter sport gets its own awards. From the Knights' wooden spoon to the Jets' Cup win and Kalyn Ponga's bizarre endorsement, we recap the highs, lows and wacky moments of 2025.
As the Hunter Region looks towards 2050, three critical issues—coal mining's legacy, unchecked urban sprawl, and lagging education—will define its future success. Explore the cumulative impacts.
A NSW Rural Fire Service volunteer was hospitalised after a stick lodged near his eye while fighting the Hollydeen blaze. He has since been released after surgery.
Discover how a Lochinvar couple turned lockdown curiosity into Phoenix Distilling Co, crafting award-winning gin, whisky, and unique liqueurs in Rutherford. Book a tasting today.
Police have released CCTV footage after firearms were stolen from a Blandford property. Two people are charged, with more arrests expected. The 78-year-old firearm owner also faces charges.
Upper Hunter farmers celebrate as the critical Coulsons Creek Road reopens just before Christmas, ending a costly five-year detour. The $60 million project fixes a botched council upgrade.
Popular Australian sports presenter Duncan McKenzie-McHarg has died in Los Angeles aged 41. Tributes flow for the former Triple M, Channel 7, and Stan Sport broadcaster.
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.
Belle Property's head office has taken direct control of its Hunter Valley operations, pledging new safety measures and support for staff and clients after a distressing period. Read the full statement.
A 23-year-old man is assisting police after a dramatic pursuit through Cessnock's wine country, involving road spikes and a police dog squad. Read the full details of the incident.
Pokolbin's EXP. Restaurant, led by chef Frank Fawkner, celebrates a landmark year with two Good Food Guide hats and the prestigious Regional Restaurant of the Year title for 2025. Discover the decade-long journey.
Hunter Valley residents could find a surprise cash boost, with over $14.2 million in unclaimed money held by Revenue NSW. Check now to see if you're owed funds.
New data reveals Gungahlin and Molonglo Valley are severely underserved for sports fields, forcing clubs to use marquees as change rooms. Discover the impact on local sport.
The iconic Mulletfest grand final returned to Kurri Kurri, crowning Daniel Cooper as the best overall mullet. See photos and meet the winners of Australia's premier celebration of the infamous haircut.
Gloucester dairy farmer Mark Harris, hit by record floods in May, now battles drought. He's spending thousands on feed and repairs as the Hunter faces a rapid dry spell. Read his story.
Two truck drivers are in a serious condition after a crash on the New England Highway near Singleton. Police are investigating and appealing for dash-cam footage.
Cricket legend Justin Langer argues parents and coaches must replace gut feelings with data to identify true sporting talent in children. Discover his evidence-based approach.
Experience over 4.5 million lights, new attractions, and festive fun at Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights Spectacular from Nov 7, 2025 to Jan 26, 2026. Book tickets now!
Abermain singer-songwriter Mackenzie Lee, 19, is a finalist for the prestigious 2026 Starmaker competition at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, following a journey that began with busking at age 11.
Police have increased the reward to $500,000 for information on the 2005 death of 21-month-old Jordan Thompson in Singleton. Detectives believe people in the Hunter community hold vital clues.
Muswellbrook Shire Council seeks a 29% rate increase exclusively on mining land to safeguard services as coal revenue declines. Public consultation is now open.
The Gum Ball music festival announces its first line-up for its 21st anniversary in the Hunter Valley, featuring King Stingray, Megan Washington, and Don Walker. Tickets on sale now.
A $171 million solar module factory is set for Black Hill, creating over 100 jobs and boosting Australia's renewable manufacturing under the Solar Sunshot program.
Hunter Valley police are appealing for public help to locate a white Mazda 4WD following five suspicious grass fires in Buchanan and Sawyers Gully. No injuries reported.
The Hunter region faces a critical jobs shortage despite low unemployment. Professor Phillip O'Neill reveals why generating 37,000 new positions is essential to avoid becoming another 'place left behind'.