A rock fisherman's life jacket kept him afloat in heavy seas off Kiama, highlighting its critical importance. Surf lifesavers also responded to multiple after-hours rescues on Illawarra beaches over a scorching weekend.
A tourist in his 20s has died after being caught in a rip at Palm Beach on the Gold Coast. It's the fifth drowning on Australian beaches this festive period. Authorities urge water safety vigilance.
Motorists in Torquay are being hit with fines due to unclear street parking signage. Discover the affected streets and how to avoid a penalty.
Australian homes are transforming spare rooms with Eva's best-selling Slideaway Sofa Bed. Discover the three-in-one furniture piece praised for style, comfort, and easy conversion.
A major fire at a popular swimming pool on Victoria's Surf Coast led to a large-scale evacuation. Emergency services rushed to the scene. Read the latest on the incident and response.
Two teenage boys were rescued from a dangerous rip at an unpatrolled Illawarra beach. The incident highlights the rising summer drowning toll and the critical importance of swimming between the flags.
Police hold serious concerns for the welfare of 20-year-old Eghan Khun, last seen on King Street, Warrawong in the early hours of Tuesday. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
Torquay residents slam a new $80,000 roundabout sign as confusing and more dangerous than before. Locals demand action from VicRoads to fix the safety hazard.
A dramatic surge in marine rescues across Western Australia saw 205 people pulled from the water this festive season. Authorities urge boaters and swimmers to prioritise safety.
A man fights for life after a Kiama beach rescue as NSW Surf Life Saving reveals seven drownings since New Year's Day. Authorities plead for water safety and self-responsibility.
Explore a fascinating year from the Illawarra Mercury's history column, featuring tales of drunken tree-chopping, fiery ships, political threats, and vintage crime. Dive into 170 years of local stories.
The Illawarra-Shoalhaven region's 2025 progress, led by Port Kembla's major rezoning, unlocks thousands of jobs in clean energy and manufacturing. Industry leaders warn the region must act now or risk losing its strongest position in a generation.
A 34-year-old man has drowned in rough seas at Jervis Bay, marking the second tragic death on the NSW South Coast in 48 hours. Authorities urge extreme caution amid dangerous coastal conditions.
The volunteers and lifeguards of Bondi and North Bondi Surf Life Saving Clubs turned their Christmas party into a triage centre during the December 14 attack. Their courage and training saved lives. Here's how you can support them.
A major ocean swim event in Torquay turned dangerous as nearly 1000 participants were caught in a sudden rip. Emergency services launched a large-scale rescue operation. Read the full story.
A delicious recap of the Illawarra's biggest food stories from 2025, featuring award-winning restaurants, iconic closures, and exciting new openings. Discover the region's culinary heartbeat.
The popular Lorne burger joint The Bottle of Milk is under external administration, casting doubt on its future. Key details on the restructure and what it means for the iconic Surf Coast spot.
A Sydney mother has died after rushing into dangerous surf to save her son, part of a tragic toll on NSW beaches. Authorities urge swimmers to stay between the flags.
Tributes flow for Melissa Austin, 45, who drowned at a NSW beach. Her death is part of a tragic cluster of coastal fatalities, prompting urgent water safety warnings.
A multi-agency search resumes for a 25-year-old man at Coogee and a 14-year-old boy at Palm Beach after separate incidents. Authorities issue urgent warnings after multiple drownings on the NSW coast. Stay informed and stay safe.
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.
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.
The iconic Rip View Swim Classic is back in 2025, promising a thrilling open water challenge at Eastern Beach, Geelong. Dive into the details of this premier ocean swimming event.
Experts warn of legal and health risks after anonymous sperm donation posters appear in Geelong and Surf Coast areas. Learn the safe pathways to donation.
Hundreds of swimmers braved the waves for the Burson Rock2Ramp Ocean Swim 2025 at Point Roadknight, Anglesea. See the stunning photos and full event recap here.
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.
The Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club's iconic Rip to River race returns in 2025. See the stunning photos and learn about the community event's success and future plans.