Mayor Swings the Axe: 30 or More Staff Face Chopping Block
Mornington Peninsula Shire is facing one of its biggest workforce shake-ups in years, with up to 30 staff reportedly on the chopping block under Mayor Anthony Marsh’s restructure. Rumours suggest senior leaders may also be affected, as community satisfaction with council services continues to slide.
Hastings Man Accused of Using Children in Mornington Peninsula Burglaries
A Hastings man has been charged with allegedly recruiting children in a series of burglaries and vehicle thefts across the Mornington Peninsula. The 30-year-old faces 29 charges and has been remanded ahead of a Frankston Magistrates’ Court hearing.
Mayor Condemns Propaganda Vandalism on Frankston Playground Equipment
Frankston Mayor Kris Bolam has condemned the defacement of children’s play equipment at Kareela Reserve after political propaganda stickers were discovered. Council crews swiftly removed the material, warning that vandalism will not be tolerated and urging residents to report incidents.
Council Adopts New Strategic and Health Plans to Guide Next Four Years
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has adopted its Council Plan 2025–2029 and Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029, following extensive community consultation with more than 3,500 residents. The plans set Council’s strategic direction and focus on creating a healthier, more inclusive Peninsula.
Latest Edition of the Somerville Times Rolling Out This Week
The August edition of the Somerville Times rolls out Tuesday, 19 August, and will be available at all collection points by Wednesday, 20 August.
What Could Happen if a Councillor Breaches Conflict of Interest Rules?
If a councillor fails to declare a conflict of interest, consequences can include suspension, reputational damage, and loss of public trust.
Somerville’s Noah Hart Races at BMX World Championships
Somerville rider Noah Hart competed at the UCI BMX World Championships in Denmark, an event showcasing the best riders globally.
Somerville Flattens Frankston
Somerville defeated Frankston Bombers in a must-win clash, clinching a finals berth by just 1% in a dramatic MPNFL Division 2 finish. The Eagles sealed seven straight wins and toppled every top side, setting up a finals showdown with Chelsea.
Beach Box Shame: Ex-AFL Star Aaron James Pleads Guilty to NSFW Act
Former AFL player Aaron James has pleaded guilty to indecent behaviour after being caught in budgie smugglers with a naked woman and engaging in NSFW shenanigans behind beach boxes at Dromana earlier this year, landing a $1,000 fine at Frankston Magistrates’ Court. He still faces charges including drug possession, theft, handling stolen number plates, sexual exposure, and dangerous driving.
Woman Charged Over Criminal Damage in Rosebud
A woman has been charged over the alleged vandalism of three vehicles in Rosebud last month, causing an estimated $20,000 in damage. Police say she will face Dromana Magistrates’ Court in September.
