New data reveals the soaring cost of education in the Illawarra for 2026. Parents face up to $336,870 for private schooling, while public education hits $95,000 over 13 years. See the full breakdown.
Stuck for ideas with three weeks of Illawarra school holidays left? From skating in the mall to torchlight walks, here are 10 boredom-busting activities for families.
Running out of ideas for the kids? Discover 10 fantastic Perth outings, from HoopsFest and Disney Jr. Live to stargazing and pick-your-own grapes, to fill the last two weeks of summer holidays.
New data reveals Perth's public schools are the most affordable in Australia. Discover how the cost of education compares nationally and what it means for families.
Lawyers seek students and staff from Barrack Heights Public School (1998-2005) as a third Illawarra institution faces a historical child abuse investigation. Witnesses urged to come forward.
Private school fees across the Hunter Region are climbing again for 2026, with some Year 12 costs exceeding $34,000. Find out what your child's education will cost and the key drivers behind the increases.
Western Australia faces a bulk billing crisis with the lowest rates nationally. Discover why out-of-pocket GP costs are rising and what it means for patients.
As the 2026 school year begins, Canberra parents face rising costs. The Smith Family charity highlights digital access as crucial for student participation, with many struggling to afford devices and internet.
Kickstart your 2026 fitness journey with our guide to the best gym, yoga, and pilates deals across the Illawarra. From $6/week offers to free trials, find your perfect fit.
Hold onto your popcorn! 2026 is shaping up as a cinematic goldmine with new 'Avatar', 'Star Wars', and Marvel films. Get the full release schedule here.
Parking fee revenue at Wollongong Hospital skyrocketed by 80% last financial year, reaching $3.48 million. Discover the reasons behind the surge and what it means for patients, visitors, and staff.
Perth is set for a blockbuster 2026 with a huge lineup of world-class entertainment, sport, and culture. From Lady Gaga to the Commonwealth Games, here's your guide to the year's must-see events.
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.
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.
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.
Barwon Valley School's John Munro and Oberon High's Tim McMahon retire, leaving a lasting legacy in Geelong education. Read about their careers and the search for successors.
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.
Parents in Western Australia face fee hikes of up to 7.4% at elite private schools in 2026, far exceeding the national inflation rate. See which schools are affected and the reasons behind the surge.
Construction accelerates on Medowie's new Catherine McAuley Primary School, with a foundation principal appointed and enrolments opening soon for a Term 1, 2027 start.
Rhonda Morton, principal of Coniston Public School, retires after a 33-year teaching career. She shares her secret to leadership and plans to return to casual teaching.
Pinterest's 2026 trend report forecasts a shift to individuality, nostalgia, and analogue living. Discover the key fashion, beauty, and lifestyle trends set to define the year ahead.
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.
New images reveal WA's first vertical public primary school in East Perth, a $165m project for 600+ students. Public comment is open until December 23.
St Andrew's Grammar School in Dianella unveils its $9 million Bianca Afkos Science and Technology Centre, featuring robotics labs and performance spaces. Opens Term 1, 2026.
Torquay P-6 College is removing dresses from its uniform, offering shorts and pants to all students. The change promotes inclusivity and practicality for active play.
Revised school bus timetables for West Dapto students cut morning travel by up to 52 minutes. Changes follow community campaign and will benefit Dapto Public and St John's Primary schools.
Karen Feldman's iconic Geelong dance school celebrates its 50th anniversary, shaping generations of performers. Discover the story of this local institution.
A Geelong College parent demands accountability after a student was chased with a knife on campus. Read the full story and the school's response.
The Albanese government eyes Newcastle for new publicly-funded bulk-billing GP clinics to combat rising gap fees. Will this market shake-up improve healthcare access?