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.
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.
From Jesse Southwell's shock NRLW exit to a life-saving stadium drama, discover the Newcastle Herald's top 10 most-read sport stories that captivated the Hunter in 2025.
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.
PerthNow's 2025 year in review reveals the stories that captivated readers, from celebrity splits and traffic snarls to local controversies and heartbreaking news. Discover the top headlines.
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.
A free community barbecue in Berkeley on Christmas Day, organised by the Beacon of Hope Project, provided food and fellowship to combat isolation during the cost-of-living crisis.
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.
The Shire of Murray has finished installing its new licence plate recognition CCTV network, boosting community safety with real-time data for police. Read about the project and its funding.
As 2025 ends, we spotlight uplifting West Aussie stories that brought joy—from miraculous pet rescues to incredible reunions and local legends. Read the good news WA needed.
The Illawarra Legal Centre celebrates four decades providing free legal advice and representation to those in need. Discover how volunteers and staff ensure access to justice.
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.
Nearly 200 people from diverse backgrounds gathered in Wollongong for a Hanukkah service, showing solidarity with the Jewish community days after the deadly Bondi terror attack. Read about the powerful message of unity.
The Geelong community has come together to raise over $7000 for disability advocate Sarah Humble, funding a new power wheelchair to replace her failing one. Read this heartwarming story of local support.
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.
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.
New independent polling shows a clear majority of Illawarra residents support the transition to renewable energy, with strong backing for both household and large-scale projects. Discover the community's vision for a sustainable future.
Hundreds gathered in Nowra for a vigil supporting the Shoalhaven Jewish community after the Bondi terror attack. Attendees heard emotional calls for unity against hate.
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.
In the wake of the Bondi attack, a journalist reflects on the suburb's unique, close-knit community and the vital role of its Jewish residents. This is about the Australia we choose to be.
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.
Enter now for your chance to win four VIP tickets to the LEVELS NYE Amphitheatre Block Party at STORIES. Experience multi-level DJs, city views & a bottle of bubbles. Entries close 12 Dec 2025.
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.
Get ready for festive fun at the South Canberra Community Markets this Saturday, 10am-2pm. Enjoy Santa photos with pets, farm buggy rides, kids' crafts, stalls, food, and live music, all supporting local youth charities.