Mt Eliza Site Confirmed as Filming Location for The Block 2026
The Block will return to coastal Victoria in 2026, with Channel Nine securing a $11 million site in Mt Eliza for the next season of the hit renovation show.
STPL News
Dangerous Motorbike Joyride on Peninsula Link Ends in Impound, Court Charges
Two motorcyclists who allegedly swerved through traffic and performed wheelies on Peninsula Link were caught on CCTV and had their bikes impounded. Police say the incident highlights the growing toll of motorbike-related fatalities in Victoria.
3D-Printed Gun, Stolen Car and Drugs Found in Frankston Police Sting
Two men have been charged after police allegedly discovered a 3D-printed firearm, drugs, and a stolen vehicle during an early morning raid in Frankston.
Frankston Council Earns Community Confidence Amid Ongoing Transformation
Frankston Council has received strong community backing in its 2025 satisfaction survey, with residents praising long-term planning and services—but public safety remains a key concern.
Off-Duty Officer Seriously Injured in Seaford Hit-Run, Police Seek Dashcam Footage
A 61-year-old off-duty police officer cycling to work was seriously injured in a hit-run on the Nepean Highway in Seaford. Police are seeking dashcam footage and witnesses.
AK-47 Replica, $20K in Meth Found in Cranbourne East Drug Bust
A Cranbourne East man and woman have been charged after police seized $20,000 worth of meth, GHB, cash, and a replica AK-47 during a suburban raid.
Contaminated Water Forces Closure of Emil Madsen Reserve in Mount Eliza
Emil Madsen Reserve in Mount Eliza has been closed due to contaminated water, disrupting local sporting and community events over the weekend. South East Water is currently investigating.
“Armed, High, and On the Run”: Langwarrin Man Charged After Police Car Rammed in Stolen Vehicle Chase
A 24-year-old Langwarrin man has been charged over a high-speed pursuit that ended with a crash, police car ramming, and Dog Squad arrest. Drugs and weapons were allegedly seized.
Teen Critical After Seaford Shooting
A 16-year-old boy is in a critical condition after a shooting in Seaford on Sunday afternoon. Police say they’re not seeking anyone else at this stage, but investigations are ongoing.
Man Dies in Early Morning Crash on Derril Road, Moorooduc
A man has died after crashing into a tree on Derril Road, Moorooduc early Saturday morning. Police are investigating and urging witnesses to come forward.
Community Rallies for Local Dad Fighting for His Life After Sudden Heart Failure
More than $52,000 has been raised for Tane Rongonui, a beloved Rye Junior Football Club volunteer and local dad hospitalised with critical heart failure
“Back in my day, seats were optional” — 64yo Caught Driving BMW Missing a Few Essentials
A 64-year-old man has been pulled over in Cranbourne North after driving a BMW missing its bonnet—and using a plastic chair as a driver's seat. He faces traffic charges.
DNA, CCTV and Video Confession: Evidence Builds in Rye Murder Case
One of the accused in the deadly Rye home invasion that left two people dead is seeking bail, despite prosecutors citing DNA, CCTV, and a video confession as key evidence.
Frankston Council Program Helps Over 100 Locals Launch Careers
Frankston Council’s Work Ready Program is helping more than 100 locals gain real-world experience, skills and jobs through tailored placements and inclusive support.
Warrant Issued for Jason Gittus — Police Seek Public Assistance
Police are searching for Jason Gittus, 55, who is wanted on warrant for burglary and drug-related offences. Last known in the Mornington and Frankston areas.
Search for Missing Frankston Man, Phouc, 77, with Dementia
Police are appealing for help to locate 77-year-old Frankston man Phouc, who suffers from dementia and went missing in Melbourne’s CBD on Friday evening.
Search Continues for Missing Woman Lucy, 28, Believed to Be in Frankston Area
Police are searching for 23-year-old Lucy, last seen in Dandenong on 8 July. Authorities believe she may have travelled to Frankston. Anyone with information is urged to contact police.
Mount Eliza’s Saucy Suburban Rumour: Was It Really Victoria’s Swingers Capital?
A Reddit post has ignited fresh discussion about Mt Eliza’s rumoured swinging scene during the 1980s and 90s — with some saying the culture never left.
Peninsula Health Launches Full-Spectrum Liver Care for Local Patients
Peninsula Health has launched a full-service liver care program, including liver cancer treatment and expanded clinics, allowing local patients to access expert care close to home. With steatotic liver disease now affecting up to half of all adults, the initiative aims to improve early detection and reduce the need for travel to metropolitan hospitals.
$3.6 Million Cannabis Crop Uncovered in Tooradin Drug Raid
Police have uncovered a $3.6 million cannabis grow operation in Tooradin, seizing over 1,200 plants and arresting three men during a major drug raid on Hardys Road.
Cheltenham factory uncovered at centre of 3D gun manufacturing operation
A Cheltenham factory has been exposed as a hub for 3D-printed gun manufacturing, with police seizing illegal firearms, drugs, cash and equipment. A 30-year-old Bentleigh East man faces 27 charges and will front Melbourne Magistrates’ Court in October.
Mayor’s Reading Challenge returns: comics, costumes and a month of family fun
Young readers across Frankston are invited to dive into books and comics this August as the Mayor’s Reading Challenge returns. With superhero storytimes, a comic book club, and prizes up for grabs, it’s a month of family fun designed to build literacy and a love of reading.
July Edition Flying Off Shelves — Read It Online Now
Our July edition has been flying off shelves across the Peninsula. If you missed out, read the full digital version online — featuring the new Helping Hands pantry, local crime, council updates and more.
Frankston charities receive $43,000 boost to build stronger community ties
Six Frankston charities will share in $43,000 through the 2025 Community Connection Grants, funding grassroots projects that tackle domestic violence, health, youth engagement and more — reinforcing vital local support networks.
Hastings Boat Ramp Upgrade Plan Opens to Public Input
Mornington Peninsula Shire is inviting locals to have their say on the proposed upgrade of the Hastings Boat Ramp carpark. Plans include doubling sealed trailer parking, adding landscaping and improving safety. Community feedback is open until 23 July 2025.
Helping Hands Somerville Calls for Pantry Donations
Helping Hands Somerville is calling on locals to donate pasta, long-life milk, spreads and more to keep its volunteer-run pantry stocked for residents doing it tough.
$4.25 Million in Community Funding Now Open
Mornington Peninsula Shire has opened applications for its latest Community Investment Funding program, with $4.25 million on offer to support local projects, events and initiatives over the next financial year. The funding is designed to back community groups, not-for-profits, businesses…
July Edition of the Somerville Times Rolling Out Monday
The July edition of the Somerville Times is rolling out from Monday, packed with local news, the new Helping Hands pantry, crime updates, council budget news, and more. Grab your copy at authorised outlets across the Mornington Peninsula.
Still Missing: Police Renew Appeal to Help Locate 12-Year-Old Shantaya
Police hold concerns for missing 12-year-old Shantaya, who was last seen in Keysborough on 22 May. As police continue to search for her, they inform that she is known to frequent the Mornington Peninsula, Frankston, Berwick, and Doveton areas.
21 nabbed in Frankston knife and crime blitz
Police arrested 21 people in Frankston during a sweeping crackdown on knives, drugs and anti-social behaviour at the railway station and shopping precinct. More blitzes are planned, including the Mornington Peninsula.
Upgraded Marna Reserve Pavilion Opens in Dromana
Dromana’s Marna Reserve Pavilion is back open after a $740,000 upgrade, offering improved access, modern amenities and more space for local clubs and community groups.
Frankston Hospital to Become Peninsula University Hospital in Major Health Shift
Frankston Hospital will become Peninsula University Hospital in early 2026, a change Peninsula Health says reflects its commitment to healthcare, research and medical training across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.
Teen Arrested Over Machete Incident at Frankston Bayside Shopping Centre
A 17-year-old has been arrested following a machete incident that led to a chase and assault inside Frankston’s Bayside Shopping Centre. Police continue to search for four others involved.
Residents Invited to Dispose of Green Waste for Free in August
Mornington Peninsula Shire residents can drop off green waste for free from 8 to 10 August, with proof of residency required.
Weapons and drugs haul in Frankston leads to three arrests
Frankston police have charged three people after allegedly seizing 3D printed machine guns, handguns, and a stash of drugs including cocaine and meth during raids in Overport Park and at a local property.
Cam Arullanantham appointed to lead Frankston City as Interim CEO
Frankston City Council has appointed Cam Arullanantham as Interim CEO from 19 July, overseeing major projects including the Nepean Highway revitalisation and new Frankston Waterfront tenants.
New netball court opens at Dromana Recreation Reserve
Dromana’s new competition-standard netball court brings senior netball to Dromana Recreation Reserve, uniting football and netball at one venue.
Public comment period extended on Port of Hastings environmental referral
Public comment on the Port of Hastings EPBC referral for the Western Port Ramsar project now closes 16 July. Community sessions set for Flinders and online.
Frankston Council Backs Neighbourhood Watch Revitalisation with $10,000 Funding Boost
Frankston Council has committed $10,000 to support Neighbourhood Watch, helping to strengthen community ties and crime prevention efforts across the city.
Get Help with Food, Bills & Housing in the Western Port Area
The Western Port Community Centre in Hastings provides professional, compassionate support for locals facing financial hardship, housing stress, or personal challenges.
$11M drive to boost play, health and community ties in Frankston
Frankston City Council has poured $11 million into upgrading 17 play spaces since 2021, strengthening health and community connections across local suburbs, and reaffirming its commitment with more funding set aside in 2025/26.
Two Bays Trail Restoration Underway: Helicopter Operations Target Early Spring Reopening
Parks Victoria is using helicopters to repair the Two Bays Walking Trail between Dromana and Cape Schanck. The works aim to boost safety and drainage, with an early spring reopening expected.
Sorrento launches Australia’s biggest art prize amid Mornington Peninsula arts funding cuts
Sorrento has unveiled Australia’s richest art prize with a $125,000 award, hoping to uplift artists and tourism on the Mornington Peninsula, despite council funding slashes.
Frankston Council’s New Budget Strengthens CBD Safety and Social Outreach
Frankston City Council’s latest budget will fund more daily patrols, CCTV upgrades and frontline outreach programs, aiming to make the city centre safer and more supportive for locals.
Four Teens Charged Over Violent Incident Outside Rosebud Restaurant
Four teenagers have been charged after an alleged violent incident outside a Rosebud restaurant in March. Police are calling for witnesses and video footage.
Peninsula Youth Celebrated for Standout Contributions at Annual Youth Awards Night
The next generation of community leaders, changemakers and quiet achievers took centre stage on Friday night, with young people from across the Mornington Peninsula recognised for their extraordinary efforts at the 2025 Youth Recognition Awards. Held at the Peninsula Community…
Lawyers Charged Over Alleged Fake Document at Frankston Magistrates’ Court
Two Melbourne lawyers are charged after allegedly submitting a fake medical certificate to Frankston Magistrates’ Court. Police say Zoe Davis and Rachelle Badour-Taha tried to mislead the court — and both have now lost their licences to practise law in Victoria.
Port of Hastings Lodges New Federal Environmental Referral for Renewable Energy Terminal
The Port of Hastings has lodged a revised EPBC referral for its proposed renewable energy terminal within the Western Port Ramsar Wetland, addressing environmental concerns raised by the federal government.
$5K Grant Eases Costs for Eastbourne Primary Students
Nat Sevior of Bendigo Bank Southern Peninsula, Steve Hamill (Principal Eastbourne Primary School), Caro Mather (Assistant Principal ) and Bettyanne Foster of Capel Sound Community Group presenting the donation cheque. Students at Eastbourne Primary School will soon have greater access…
New Partnership to Strengthen Mornington Peninsula Visitor Economy
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has announced a new strategic Visitor Economy Partnership, aimed at unlocking tourism growth, job creation, and increased access to state and federal funding for the region.
