Mornington Peninsula Poultry Industry Warned Of Devastating Bird Flu Losses
Mornington Peninsula poultry farms face heightened biosecurity concerns after experts warned H5 bird flu could cause devastating commercial losses.
Category Environment
Environment related news across the Mornington Peninsula & Frankston
Bird Flu Detected On Mornington Peninsula
H5 bird flu has been detected at St Andrews Beach on the Mornington Peninsula. Local councillors and the Western Port Biosphere Foundation are urging residents and visitors to avoid sick or dead wildlife and report sightings immediately.
H5 Bird Flu Threat Prompts Western Port Wildlife Warning
Residents are being urged to report sick or dead birds and marine mammals as H5 bird flu threatens wildlife, tourism and poultry operations around Western Port.
Peninsula Projects Recognised At National Tidy Towns Awards
The Mornington Peninsula has received three honours at the 2026 Keep Australia Beautiful National Tidy Towns Awards, recognising local projects in reef restoration, conservation and youth environmental education.
Battery Disposal Reminder Issued Following Mount Martha Recycling Truck Fire
Mornington Peninsula Shire has issued a reminder about battery disposal after a recycling truck caught fire in Mount Martha, highlighting the risks of hazardous waste in household bins.
Sewage Spill Affects Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach
South East Water has reported a sewage spill at Frankston South, sending overflow into Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach. Residents are urged to avoid the water while clean up and water quality testing continue.
Final EES Scoping Requirements Published for Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at Port of Hastings
The Victoria Government has published the final scoping requirements for the Environment Effects Statement (EFS) for the proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at the Port of Hastings, setting out the studies required before the project can be assessed.
Frankston Council Responds to Concerns Over Alleged Illegal Foreshore Works
Frankston City Council has addressed community concern over alleged illegal vegetation removal and unauthorised foreshore works, confirming investigations with DEECA and urging residents to report suspected breaches.
Mornington Peninsula Named Victoria’s Tidy Town for 2025
Mornington Peninsula has been named Victoria’s Tidy Town for 2025, acknowledging the region’s community-led sustainability work, from coastal protection to renewable energy innovation.
Council launches record tree and plant giveaway to boost Frankston’s green canopy
Frankston City Council has launched its biggest tree giveaway, with thousands of free trees and plants available for schools, households and community groups to expand the city’s green canopy.
$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.
Community Win: Capel Sound Saves Its Parkland
Capel Sound has secured a major victory, with Mornington Peninsula Shire Council voting unanimously to keep 11a Allambi Avenue as public parkland in the draft Open Space Strategy.
‘Incompatible and Incongruous’: VCAT Denies Temple Project on Protected Green Wedge
VCAT has refused a permit to build a large temple in Pearcedale, ruling it inconsistent with Green Wedge planning controls and environmental overlays. The decision affirms Council's original refusal and is seen as a major win for local residents and environmental advocates.
Community Unites to Demand Reinstatement of Arts and Climate Funding
More than 150 residents packed Flinders Civic Hall calling for the Mornington Peninsula Shire to reinstate arts and climate funding. The Mayor, CEO and councillors attended the meeting organised by Save Our Arts MP and the Peninsula Climate Alliance. A motion was passed demanding the return of the Climate Emergency Declaration and support for sole trader creatives.
Federal Watchdog Intervenes: Western Port Terminal Project Faces Scrutiny Over Threat to Ramsar Wetlands
The proposed renewable energy terminal at Western Port Bay will undergo full federal environmental assessment after being declared a "controlled action" under the EPBC Act, amid concerns over its impact on Ramsar-listed wetlands and marine life.
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.
Frankston Foreshore Dispute Escalates Over Seawall
A private seawall built without permits has triggered a Council investigation in Frankston South. The property’s owner, Gene Neill, admits to bypassing planning approvals — and this isn’t his first brush with controversy.
Push to Establish Marine Sanctuary in Mt Eliza Gains Council Backing
Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Stephen Batty has backed a proposal to establish a marine sanctuary along the Mt Eliza coast, aimed at protecting the unique reef system between Daveys Bay and Moondah Beach. Community group Mt Eliza Marine Advocacy Inc is leading the campaign, with broader consultation planned over the coming months.
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.
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.
Young Street Blooms as Frankston’s Revitalisation Efforts Take Root
Nearly 4,000 new plants are transforming Young Street in Frankston as part of a broader council strategy to improve safety, cleanliness, and visual appeal across the CBD.
Western Port Biosphere Launches New Campaign
The Western Port Biosphere Foundation has launched its end-of-financial-year appeal, urging public support to protect Western Port’s Ramsar wetlands, endangered marine life, and rare Bryozoan Reef.
‘We Won’t Let the Kids Down’: Shire Cuts Put DRI’s Youth Marine Program at Risk
The Dolphin Research Institute’s award-winning youth marine leadership program is at risk after Mornington Peninsula Shire pulled funding. Community support now critical.
Bass Strait Could Be More Than Just a Highway for Whales, Says New Study
New research by the Dolphin Research Institute reveals Bass Strait could be a vital feeding and calving ground for humpback whales, challenging long-held beliefs and prompting calls for better environmental protection.
Mount Martha Man Fined $6271 for Dumping Whitegoods in Rural Reserves
A Mount Martha resident has been fined $4,700 after dumping washing machines and a dryer in Tuerong and Moorooduc. The Mornington Peninsula Shire urges locals to report illegal dumping.
Backlash Grows Over State Government Plan to Axe Fisheries Officers
Conservationists, fishers and unions unite against a Victorian Government proposal to remove fisheries officers, warning it threatens marine wildlife and fish stocks.
RPP FM Interview: Deputy Mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro
Deputy Mayor Paul Pingiaro speaks with RPP FM about his motion to end the Mornington Peninsula Shire's Emergency Climate Plan, calling it a move towards fiscal responsibility—not climate denial.
Council Votes to Overhaul Climate Emergency Plan Amid Heated Debate
Last night, Mornington Peninsula Shire voted to disassemble its climate emergency plan, prompting public debate and mixed community reactions. Deputy Mayor Paul Pingiaro defended the motion as fiscally responsible, not climate denial.
Fisheries Cuts Threaten Mornington Peninsula Marine Life and Industry
Victorian waters, including the Mornington Peninsula, face growing concern as the State Government moves to significantly cut fisheries compliance roles, sparking warnings of environmental and industry collapse from local leaders and experts.
Work on Frankston Foreshore Retaining Wall Halted Following Council Intervention
Construction of an unregistered retaining wall on the Frankston foreshore has been halted by the council after backlash from residents. Property owner Gene Neill defended the works, citing recent landslips. The council is now reviewing the situation.
Council Skinks Ahead with Federal Oversight for Dromana Development
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has thrown its support behind a federally recommended controlled action to oversee a 250-home development in Dromana.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Releases Draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan for Public Consultation
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has released its draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan 2024-2029, focusing on improving wastewater system performance and reducing environmental risks. Public consultation is open until 31st March 2025.
The Return of the Bandicoots: Tiny Gardeners Transforming The Briars
The endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot has been reintroduced to The Briars Wildlife Sanctuary in Mount Martha, helping restore local biodiversity and soil health.
Langwarrin Landowner Fined $15,000 for Illegal Vegetation Clearing
A Langwarrin landowner has been fined $15,000 for illegally clearing protected vegetation on McClelland Drive, following a prosecution by Frankston City Council.
Victorian Government Initiates Inquiry into McCrae Landslide
The Victorian Government has announced an independent inquiry into the McCrae landslide, aiming to uncover its causes and prevent future incidents. The investigation will address residents' concerns and provide safety recommendations.
Shire Seeking Clarification Arthurs Seat Eagle Development
Mornington Peninsula shire Council is seeking clarification over development proposals for the Arthurs Seat Eagle.
McCrae Landslide Raises Broader Concerns Over Peninsula’s Geological Stability
The McCrae landslide highlights geological vulnerabilities on the Mornington Peninsula, as authorities stabilise the site and address calls for broader monitoring and preventive measures.
McCrae Landslide: Security Ramped Up at Site Amid Looting Fears
The McCrae landslide site sees increased security measures with CCTV and Victoria Police patrols as concerns rise over looting. Ongoing investigations and recovery efforts continue for affected residents.
RPP FM’s Scrambled Eggs Breakfast Show Celebrates 500th Episode
RPP FM’s popular breakfast show, Scrambled Eggs, marks its 500th episode with a special broadcast from Trofeo Estate. Tune in Thursdays and Fridays, 6am to 9am, on 98.7FM or stream live.
McCrae Landslide Update: 20 Homes Evacuated & Up to 60 Homes at Risk
The McCrae landslide has destroyed homes, forced evacuations, and expanded exclusion zones. Authorities warn a permanent solution may take two years, leaving 60 properties at risk.
Boaters Urged to Slow Down as New Dolphin Calf Arrives in Port Phillip Bay
The Dolphin Research Institute warns boaters to be cautious in Port Phillip Bay following the birth of a new dolphin calf. Early months are critical for the calf’s survival.
Concerns Mount Over McCrae Escarpment After Landslide
A house collapse in McCrae has raised serious concerns about the stability of the escarpment, leading to road closures, evacuations, and investigations into underground water issues.
McCrae Landslide Crisis Deepens: More Homes at Risk as Crews Brace for Further Slips
Emergency crews brace for further slips in McCrae following a destructive landslide that has made 11 properties unsafe and closed Point Nepean Road.
Water Police Increase Patrols as Jet Ski Incidents Surge on Mornington Peninsula
Water Police are intensifying patrols along the Mornington Peninsula following a series of serious jet ski incidents. Recent accidents at Safety Beach and Rye highlight the dangers of reckless behaviour on local waterways.
Major Upgrade for Nepean Highway as Frankston FMAC Development Moves Ahead
The next stage of the Frankston FMAC development begins with a Nepean Highway upgrade featuring 8,000 new plants, new businesses, and the upcoming Harbour Frankston luxury complex.
Beach Frustrations Erupt on the Mornington Peninsula
As reported by The Guardian, a social media post by Visit Victoria promoting No 16 Back Beach Rye has sparked controversy, leading to its removal after local concerns were raised about safety at the site. The promotional content described the…
Council Stands Firm Amid Criticism Over Beach Cleaning Decision
Former Mornington Peninsula Citizen of the Year Josie Jones criticizes council's handling of beach cleaning trials, raising concerns about governance, evidence-based decision-making, and vested interests.
Somerville to Baxter Bike Trail Construction Underway
Construction has started on the Somerville to Baxter section of the Peninsula Trail, a $7.8M project funded by the Australian and Victorian governments. Cr Kate Roper, Mayor Anthony Marsh, and Paul Mercurio MP highlight its benefits for local connectivity, walking, and cycling.
Arthurs Seat Eagle $25M Upgrade in Good Hands, Says Senior Botanist
Merinda Day-Smith, Senior Botanist with Nature Advisory, reassures the Mornington Peninsula community that the environmental assessment for the $25 million Arthurs Seat Eagle upgrade is on track. The three-stage project includes a function centre, observation tower, restaurant, and luge, set to begin next year.
Firefighting Aircraft Arrive Ahead of Hot Summer
Firefighting aircraft, including Large Air Tankers and Aircranes, are arriving in Australia ahead of a predicted hot summer, with high bushfire risks in Victoria and the Mornington Peninsula.
