The Illawarra Hawks' NBL26 title defence is on life support after a crucial 101-96 home loss to the New Zealand Breakers. Coach Justin Tatum laments turnovers and a persistent free-throw disparity.
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.
Discover five exciting new cafes and restaurants in Perth to visit this summer, from buzzy Cottesloe eateries to a coastal club in Yanchep. Your guide to the best new food and drink spots.
Discover how Graham Brown turned a passion into a profession, capturing iconic Illawarra sporting moments and earning global recognition. His story is one of timing, persistence, and pure love for the game.
New Balance reveals its 2026 Australian Open apparel range, featuring new cuts and a first-ever global release. Get the ultimate performance looks for summer tennis.
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.
Take a nostalgic trip through Geelong's iconic 1980s and 1990s New Year's Eve street parties. See the classic celebrations that defined the city's festive spirit. Dive into the photo gallery now!
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.
Pomona, a new South American-inspired restaurant, brings a sophisticated, gluten-free dining option to the Gili Islands. Read our first taste review.
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.
Zahara Mamdani is inaugurated as the 110th mayor of New York, promising transformative policies on housing, climate, and equity. Follow her historic journey.
Thousands flocked to Geelong's waterfront to welcome 2025 with a dazzling fireworks show. See the highlights and community spirit that made the night unforgettable.
Thousands celebrated New Year's Eve on Newcastle's Foreshore as families and revellers shared hopes for travel and adventure in 2026. NSW Police ran a major operation amid health warnings about dangerous drugs.
Newcastle and Hunter residents welcomed 2026 with good behaviour, police report. No major incidents marred celebrations, in stark contrast to Sydney's arrests. Read the full report.
Sydney's world-famous New Year's Eve fireworks lit up the harbour in a stunning 12-minute show, marked by a poignant tribute to the Bondi attack victims. Over a million people watched the spectacle.
Thousands gathered on Newcastle's Foreshore to welcome 2026. Amidst the celebrations, police issued warnings about dangerous drugs and urged public safety. See the photos and stories.
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.
Sydney launches its biggest security operation for New Year's Eve, deploying 3,000 officers with high-powered rifles to reassure the public after the Bondi terror attack. Authorities confirm no credible threats.
Netflix reveals filming locations for Emily in Paris Season 5 in Rome. Discover three real Roman restaurants where you can dine like Emily Cooper and Sylvie. Buon appetito!
NSW Police will deploy all available officers for high-visibility patrols across Wollongong this New Year's Eve. Minister Yasmin Catley urges revellers to celebrate safely and respect emergency workers.
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.
Sydney's spectacular New Year's Eve 2025 fireworks display drew record crowds and featured stunning new effects. Discover all the highlights and key moments from the harbour celebration.
Cairns venues are rolling out spectacular plans for New Year's Eve 2024. Discover party buses, rooftop celebrations, and fireworks to welcome 2025 in Tropical North Queensland.
Plan your New Year's Eve celebration with our complete guide to fireworks displays across Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula. Find times, locations, and tips for a spectacular night.
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 the five Western Australian restaurants that earned perfect scores in STM's 2025 reviews, from Bunker Bay to Perth CBD. Find your next culinary destination.
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.
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.