Man Charged After Paramedics Allegedly Assaulted in Mornington
Two Ambulance Victoria paramedics were allegedly assaulted in Mornington’s Main Street. Police arrested a 58-year-old man, who now faces multiple charges.
STPL News
Police Appeal for Help to Find Missing Woman Lucy
Police are appealing for public assistance to locate 23-year-old Lucy, last seen in Dandenong on 10 September. Authorities believe she may have travelled to Frankston and hold concerns for her welfare due to a medical condition.
Frankston Police Charge Man following Crime Spree
A Carrum Downs man has been arrested and charged with 32 offences after an alleged crime spree across Melbourne’s southern and eastern suburbs, including Frankston, Pakenham and Dandenong. Police allege the incidents involved multiple burglaries, stolen vehicles and dangerous driving before his arrest in Frankston.
Mornington Peninsula businesses in the spotlight as finalists named for 2025 Excellence Awards
Twenty-two local businesses have been announced as finalists in the 2025 Mornington Peninsula Business Excellence Awards, showcasing innovation, resilience and community connection across the region. Winners will be revealed at a gala event in November.
Good News for Hastings as Pelican Park Reopens After Major Upgrade
Pelican Park Recreation Centre has reopened in Hastings after months of renovations. The pool, gym and change facilities are back in action, with more wellness upgrades still to come later in 2025.
Police Seek Public’s Help After Seaford Home Invasion
Detectives in the Frankston area are appealing for public assistance following an aggravated home invasion in Seaford on 13 July 2025. Police believe a man may be able to help with their enquiries and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers or the Frankston CIU.
Victoria Police offers record reward in statewide manhunt for Porepunkah shooting suspect
Victoria Police have announced a record $1 million reward in the manhunt for Desmond Freeman (Desmond Filby) following the fatal shooting of two officers in Porepunkah. The search is statewide, and residents, including those on the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston, are urged to stay alert and report any information.
Frankston Council Announces $425,000 Support Package for Local Relief Agencies
Frankston City Council has allocated $425,000 in funding for local relief agencies in 2025–26, supporting organisations that provide food relief, housing assistance, mental health services and more. See the full list of recipients and how to access help.
Local Businesses Invited to Share Views in 2025 Survey
Local businesses are encouraged to take part in the 2025 Business Survey, open until 30 September. The survey, run with Metropolis Research, aims to capture local business needs and guide future programs and support services.
Police Seek Woman After Knife Incident at Carrum Downs Shopping Centre
Police are appealing for a woman to come forward after an alleged assault and knife threats at Carrum Downs shopping centre on Sunday. Officers quickly arrested a man, but the victim left before police could speak with her.
Four More Charged in Mornington Peninsula Crime Spree
Four more people, including two Hastings teenagers, have been charged following a series of burglaries and vehicle thefts across the Mornington Peninsula. Detectives confirmed the 30-year-old Hastings man originally arrested remains in custody.
Affordable Websites – Fast Turnaround
Affordable websites from $995 with STPL News Web Services. Free hosting & business email for 12 months. Your site live in days.
Detectives Probe Mystery Surrounding Injured Man Found in Frankston
A man in his 40s has been rushed to hospital in a critical condition after being found with severe head injuries on Cecil Street, Frankston. Detectives are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage to help piece together the events.
New Workplace Laws Kick In: What They Mean for Small Businesses in 2025
Small business owners face major legal changes in 2025, including the Right to Disconnect, wage theft penalties, superannuation increases and updated award classifications.
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.
Neighbourhood Policing Forum draws strong community turnout in Hastings
Around 150 people attended the Hastings Neighbourhood Policing Forum yesterday, where residents, business owners, and local police discussed crime trends, safety, and community policing on the Mornington Peninsula.
$900k Coastal Wetlands Project to Bolster Western Port’s Climate Defences
A $900,000 Western Port Biosphere and RMIT initiative will restore mangroves and saltmarsh to protect Western Port’s coastlines from erosion, storm surges, and climate change impacts.
‘On Edge’: Mornington Peninsula Shire Braces for Staff Cuts
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council staff are reportedly on edge after being told job cuts are coming. Affected teams will be revealed in September. The Shire has not publicly commented.
Main Pool Hall at PARC to Reopen a Week Ahead of Schedule
Frankston’s Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre will reopen its Main Pool Hall on Monday 11 August, one week ahead of schedule, with warmer pools, hot showers, and key facilities ready for use.
Police Seek Public Assistance to Locate Wanted Man
Frankston police are asking for the public’s help to find 40-year-old Shane Conham, wanted on warrant and believed to be travelling via public transport.
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.
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.
