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.
As the Illawarra Hawks prepare for their third straight NBL Christmas game, we explore whether sport has a place in Aussie holiday traditions. Insights from players and fans.
Illawarra Hawks co-captain Sam Froling is set for a Christmas miracle, cleared to play against Sydney Kings on December 25 after recovering from a serious achilles injury. Don't miss the 8:30pm tip-off on ESPN.
Australian NBA star Ben Simmons purchases controlling stake in the South Florida Sails fishing team while rehabilitating from back injury. Discover his new venture.
Illawarra restaurants, pubs, and hotels are experiencing high demand for Christmas Day dining as families opt to avoid the stress of cooking at home. Discover the festive menus and prices on offer.
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.
The Newcastle rugby community is in mourning after the sudden death of former Hamilton Hawks premiership winner Sam Morgan, 29, from a rare strand of pneumonia. A GoFundMe for his family has raised over $40,000.
Discover where to find the crispiest, most authentic Portuguese tarts in the Illawarra region. From Wollongong to Shellharbour, we reveal the bakeries locals swear by.
Wollongong PE teacher Phil Saunders has had all charges against him dismissed in local court. Read the magistrate's detailed reasoning and the emotional courtroom outcome.
A Wollongong magistrate has identified major problems with the prosecution's case against a man charged over the 1993 disappearance of Pauline Sowry, but denied bail due to alleged threats against police. Read the latest court developments.
Exclusive first image reveals plans for six towers, including three 40-storey skyscrapers, on the old Bunnings site in central Wollongong. The $500m project could house over 3000 people.
A busy week in Wollongong courts saw ex-footballer Wendell Sailor arrested, Trent Merrin avoid conviction for crypto theft, and a $2.5 million embezzlement case. Read the latest local legal news.
Zach Merrett will play for Victoria in State of Origin after his dramatic failed trade from Essendon to Hawthorn, setting up an intriguing dynamic with coaches. Download the 7NEWS app for more.
The Illawarra Hawks' NBL title defence is in crisis after an 97-75 loss to Melbourne United. Turnovers and poor rebounding again proved costly as their record slips to 6-11. Read the full match analysis.
Wollongong businesses lament a 'step backwards' as fire safety concerns force a ban on outdoor dining in Crown Lane. Discover the impact on local nightlife and council plans.
Sydney Kings coach Brian Goorjian throws his support behind Canberra's push for an NBL team following a thrilling overtime victory in front of a packed AIS Arena crowd.
A Wollongong man required surgery after a long-time friend, wearing a motorcycle helmet, attacked him with a machete inside his Fairy Meadow home. The attacker has pleaded guilty. Read the shocking details.
Ian Palamara was sentenced to over five years in prison for a reckless assault that caused grievous bodily harm to Carissa Edwards in a Kembla Grange park. The victim faces a guarded prognosis for her vision.
Illawarra Hawks star JaVale McGee is swapping snow for sun this festive season. The NBA champion shares his Aussie bucket list, from family time in Wollongong to a crucial Christmas Day NBL clash.
Canberra basketball fans have a crucial chance to prove their support as the city battles Sydney and the Gold Coast for an NBL expansion team. A sell-out game at AIS Arena could be the key.
Scottish darts star Cameron Menzies issues apology after punching water table in frustration following first-round World Darts Championship exit, citing family tragedy. Latest from London.
Wollongong City Council has awarded the Lagoon Restaurant lease to Sydney hospitality giant The Grounds of Alexandria. The five-year deal promises a new era for the Stuart Park site. Read the full story.
Oscar Piastri expects full fairness from McLaren in 2026 after his selfless, third-placed F1 championship campaign. The Aussie star reflects on the tight battle with teammate Lando Norris. Read more.
Plans for a new 79-place Montessori childcare centre on church land in Lake Heights have been submitted to Wollongong City Council. The development includes a shared underground car park and church upgrades. Read the full details.
Australian F1 star Oscar Piastri finishes runner-up in Abu Dhabi and third in the championship. He vows to learn from the season's highs and lows to become a future world champion. Read his full analysis.
Australian F1 star Oscar Piastri still has a mathematical shot at the 2024 drivers' championship. Discover the exact scenarios needed for him to beat Norris and Verstappen in Abu Dhabi.
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?
Illawarra Hawks legend Glen Saville opens up on the immense pressure and stress crippling the team's faltering NBL championship defence. Can they turn it around?
Illawarra Hawks legend Glen Saville reveals the intense pressure and stress facing the reigning NBL champions as their playoff hopes hang by a thread. Can they turn it around?
Oscar Piastri's Formula 1 championship hopes took a major hit after qualifying third in Abu Dhabi. The Aussie must finish top two and offers no team order guarantees. Read the full race preview.