From the Hawks' championship glory to community triumphs and wild weather, Illawarra Mercury photographers Adam McLean, Anna Warr, and Robert Peet share their standout images and stories from a remarkable year.
Surf Life Saving Illawarra urges swimmers to heed safety advice after 63 rescues this season. Learn the vital steps to avoid becoming a statistic and what to do in an emergency.
A massive section of cliff is dangerously unstable above a popular Surf Coast beach. Authorities urge visitors to avoid the area and stay safe. Read the latest safety alert.
Ring in 2026 across the Illawarra! Our complete guide covers Wollongong Harbour fireworks, the Summer Carnival, and live music from Royale With Cheese to Touch Sensitive. Find your perfect party.
Waverley Council's controversial terms for Bondi Beach have ignited public backlash. A formal review is now underway. Discover the details and have your say.
A fresh controversy erupts at Lorne's main beach as 'ghost cabanas' reserve prime spots but sit empty for hours, leaving families frustrated. Locals and visitors demand action.
Discover the best Illawarra pubs and breweries where you can bring your dog this summer. From ocean views to craft beer, find your perfect spot.
Two 15-year-old girls arrested over an alleged assault on a 13-year-old at Mordialloc Pier have been released without charge. Police urge witnesses and the man who intervened to come forward.
Fashion retailer City Beach has been ordered to pay a massive $14 million penalty for selling children's products with non-compliant button batteries, putting thousands at risk. Learn about the safety standards.
Sydney's Coogee Beach was left trashed after thousands celebrated 'Orphans Christmas'. Council crews worked overnight to remove over 20 tonnes of waste. Read more about the clean-up and community outrage.
Discover six easy, family-friendly bushwalks in and around the Illawarra, perfect for getting kids outdoors. Includes details on trails, wildlife, and safety tips for a memorable adventure.
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.
Newcastle police issue a stark warning to parents after Christmas e-bike gifts. Officers fear children are one mistake from life-altering brain injuries. Learn the rules and risks.
Thousands of backpackers celebrated Christmas at Sydney's Coogee Beach after heeding warnings to avoid Bronte following the Bondi attack. The move averted a repeat of last year's chaos.
A 12-year-old girl has tragically died in hospital nearly two days after being found unresponsive in the water at Perth's Trigg Beach. The community is in mourning.
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.
Surf Life Saving WA urges families to swim between the flags this Christmas after 13 coastal drownings last summer. Learn how to spot a rip and stay safe.
A 12-year-old girl is fighting for life after being rescued from a rip at Trigg Beach. Read the latest on this developing story and beach safety warnings.
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 large great white shark was filmed swimming near the Lorne Pier on the Great Ocean Road. Authorities urge swimmers and surfers to exercise caution.
A swimmer was seriously injured by a suspected box jellyfish at Trinity Beach in Cairns. Emergency services responded, highlighting the ongoing marine stinger danger in North Queensland waters.
Royal Life Saving Australia urges vigilance as nearly 20 drownings occurred last Christmas-New Year period. Experts warn of hidden dangers at rivers, lakes, and unpatrolled beaches.
Over 300 young members of Shellharbour Surf Life Saving Club celebrated the festive season with games, water activities and a foil-surfing Santa. See the gallery.
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.
A thief was caught on CCTV stealing from a Bulli Beach Surf Life Saving Club volunteer during a busy patrol. The brazen incident occurred just hours after a vigil for the Bondi attack victims. Police are investigating.
A shark warning is in place for Kelp Beds Beach near Esperance following multiple sightings. Authorities urge swimmers and surfers to exercise extreme caution and check SharkSmart.
Surf lifesavers from Austinmer to Kiama stood in silent reflection on Illawarra beaches to honour those killed in the Bondi Beach terror attack. The community joined for a National Day of Reflection.
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.
Perth councils secure increased police patrols at iconic beaches like Cottesloe this weekend following Sydney's Bondi terror attack. Community leaders call for reassurance.