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.
Explore the stunning collection of award-winning photographs from the Geelong Advertiser's visual team, capturing the heart and soul of the region in 2025. See the moments that defined our year.
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.
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.
Alan Evans, former CEO of NRMA and Medicines Australia, now spends his Christmas season as Santa at Canberra Centre, sharing wisdom and joy with families. Discover his heartwarming stories.
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.
Illawarra Mercury's Grace Hamilton and Anna Warr recognised at Australian Community Media awards for powerful sports journalism and photography. Read their inspiring stories.
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.
Townsville photographer Evan Morgan shares his standout images from 2025, showcasing the city's vibrant life, landscapes, and community spirit. See his incredible work!
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.
Hollywood star Sydney Sweeney shares intimate behind-the-scenes photos from her 'The Housemaid' press tour, including a topless fitting room snap that has fans talking. Get the full story.
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.
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.
Discover LOVING exhibition at Canberra Museum featuring 4000 historical photos of male couples from 1850s-1950s. Opens December 6 alongside local queer portraits.
St Ignatius College Geelong's Class of 2025 celebrates graduation with emotional ceremonies and proud families. See the memorable moments from this significant educational milestone.
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.
Helios Medical Rooms in Wollongong boosted patient numbers through local advertising with ACM. Discover how community-focused marketing builds trust and delivers real results for Australian small businesses.
Perth families are making pets part of Christmas traditions with FurBaby's Santa Paws sessions. Discover how huskies, cats and even eagles join festive family portraits.
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.
Geelong College celebrates its 2025 graduating class with emotional ceremony. See photos and details from this milestone event in students' lives.
Wollongong police are searching for three wanted men - Dylan Afranis, Jay McDonald, and Jake Peak - across the Illawarra region. Authorities urge public assistance.
Explore the rich history of Geelong's Gordon Institute of TAFE through never-before-seen photographs capturing decades of education and community impact.