Council Spends Nearly $500k on Memberships But Fails to Show Up
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is spending close to half a million dollars each year on memberships with advocacy and industry groups but often fails to participate.
Category Latest News
Catch up on the latest news from the Somerville Times & Peninsula Local.
Frankston Council Funds 34 Local Groups, Expands Emergency and Youth Support Programs
Frankston City Council has awarded almost $130,000 to 34 community organisations and boosted funding for urgent and child inclusion grants, helping local groups respond to cost-of-living pressures and support families across the municipality
‘Balancing the Budget Is Not the Goal’ — Mayor Softens Fiscal Rhetoric as Council Approves 10-Year Plans
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh says balancing the budget is not the goal, signalling a shift from the fiscal crisis narrative as Council adopts its 10-year Financial and Asset Plans.
Community feedback shapes Sorrento parking upgrades
Mornington Peninsula Shire is progressing plans to expand the Morce Avenue car park in Sorrento following strong community feedback on proposed design options.
How Would You Spend $60,000? Mornington Peninsula’s Empty Seat at the MAV
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council spent $60,000 for a seat at the MAV State Council — but remained vacant. The no-show has fuelled frustration among ratepayers already concerned about transparency, budget cuts and leadership direction. What would you have done with $60k?
New Ballam Park Heritage Trail Brings Frankston’s Past to Life
Frankston City Council has unveiled the Ballam Park Heritage Trail — a new self-guided walk celebrating the city’s cultural heritage, community spirit and historical milestones.
Police Appeal After Speeding Driver’s Near-Miss in Mornington
Police are appealing for witnesses after a red Mazda sped through a red light on Nepean Highway in Mornington, narrowly missing pedestrians at a busy crossing.
Frankston Council Program Brews Success for Local Entrepreneurs
Frankston City Council’s mobile food van program is giving local entrepreneurs a chance to turn small ideas into thriving businesses, with success stories like Carrum Downs’ Caravan Chai showing how community support can help start-ups grow nationally.
Frankston Takes Lead on Statewide Reform as Council’s Advocacy Pays Off
Frankston City Council has strengthened its reputation for effective advocacy, securing five wins at the MAV State Council on housing, transparency, and worker protections — further positioning the city as a leader in local government reform.
Two men found deceased in Frankston Beach rescue operation
Police are investigating after two men were found deceased at Frankston Beach on Wednesday afternoon. Emergency crews responded around 5 pm after reports of two swimmers in distress.
Phil Graf and Andy Palmer Awarded Life Memberships
Somerville Football Netball Club has awarded Life Memberships to long-time contributors Phil Graf and Andy Palmer for their outstanding service and dedication — writes the Somerville Swooper.
New ‘Wash Against Waste’ Trailer to Help Peninsula Events Go Plastic-Free
Mornington Peninsula Shire has introduced a new Wash Against Waste trailer to help local event organisers cut down on single-use plastics and make community events more sustainable across the region.
Inquest Refused as Mother Finally Receives Death Certificate for Baby Talon
Six years after her baby’s death in Frankston, mother Kayla Hehir has finally received Talon’s death certificate — but the Victorian Government’s refusal to hold an inquest has renewed her fight for justice.
Music, Laughter and Local Talent Fill Somerville Seniors Hall | STPL News
More than 140 people attended the Smorgasbord of Music at the Somerville Seniors Hall, part of the Victorian Seniors Festival and hosted by Somerville Community House.
‘We’re Not Stopping’: $4,500 Raised to Feed Rescued Horses as Carly Wines Speaks on RPP FM
The Mount Eliza horse welfare campaign has raised $4,500 to feed 35 rescued horses, as organiser Carly Wines told RPP FM the community won’t stop protesting until all animals are safe.
Gill’s Transparency Motion Voted Down with Mayor Marsh Absent for Meeting
Cr David Gill’s push to strengthen transparency and councillor rights during meetings was defeated at Tuesday night’s Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meeting — a vote that took place without Mayor Anthony Marsh, whose absence left Deputy Mayor Paul Pingiaro in the chair.
Frankston Council Launches Emergency Disaster Fund to Strengthen Local Resilience
Frankston Council will add $150,000 per year to a new Emergency Disaster Fund, a proactive move to boost local disaster recovery and climate resilience.
Zoe McKenzie MP Appointed Shadow Cabinet Secretary
Flinders MP Zoe McKenzie has been appointed Shadow Cabinet Secretary by Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and will continue as Shadow Assistant Minister for Education and Early Learning.
Frankston House Car Park Reopens, Boosting Access to City Centre
Frankston’s city centre is set to become more accessible with the reopening of the Frankston House Car Park on 15 October. The upgraded facility beneath Moon Dog Brewery offers 49 public spaces with the first two hours free, operating daily from 7am to 11pm and fully monitored by CCTV. The project supports local business growth and forms part of Frankston City Council’s broader plan to revitalise Nepean Highway and boost city centre activity.
Somerville Dazzles In Sensational Start To The Season
Somerville Cricket Club has continued its dominant start to the MPCA season, backing up its Round 1 win with a commanding victory over Mt Eliza. Nick Mann led the way with an unbeaten 87 as the Eagles claimed the Phil Graf/Doug Neal Cup in front of a strong home crowd
Somerville Cricket Club And The Mel Adolphus Award
Somerville Cricket Club has honoured the late Mel Adolphus with a new Round 1 award recognising one of the club’s best players. The award celebrates Adolphus’s five decades of dedication and the enduring impact he and his wife Sandy had on the Somerville community.
Cr Gill Pushes for Stronger Scrutiny Rules as Council Tensions Boil Over
Cr David Gill has lodged a motion to strengthen transparency and accountability at Mornington Peninsula Shire, following months of tension with Mayor Anthony Marsh and the “notorious bloc of six” accused of shutting down council debate.
Community Connector Program Expands to Frankston’s Retail Strips
Frankston’s Community Connector program will remain in place for another year, with new funding allowing outreach workers to expand their presence into two major retail precincts in the CBD.
Shire Faces $1 Million Recycling Bill as Contamination Rises
Mornington Peninsula Shire blames a rise in recycling contamination — now costing an extra $1 million — on residents putting the wrong items in yellow-lid bins.
Victoria Police Seek Public Help to Locate Wanted Persons in Frankston and Mornington Peninsula
Victoria Police are appealing for public help to locate several people wanted on warrant across Frankston, Mornington, Langwarrin and Rye. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or submit an anonymous report online. Read article for full details.
Somerville Cricket Club Season 2025–26
Somerville Cricket Club has kicked off the 2025–26 MPCA season in style, securing a dominant win over Long Island at The Nest, with standout performances from Nick Mann, Kiefer Peries and captain Chris Brittain.
Project One Brings a Fresh Coffee Vibe to Frankston
Project One has opened in Frankston, led by 22-year-old local Josh. The new café is already attracting strong community support, with customers praising its coffee, fresh atmosphere and friendly service. Backed by community, Project One is quickly establishing itself in the city’s hospitality scene.
MPSC Sets Sights on Safer and Stronger Infrastructure Across the Peninsula
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has unveiled a new infrastructure program focusing on safer roads, renewed community facilities, and stronger coastal defences to prepare the region for future growth.
New Lights Officially Opened at Somerville Tennis Club
Somerville Tennis Club has officially opened new lights on courts 4–6, funded by a $100,000 State Government grant. The upgrade means all six courts are now available for night matches.
Councillor Term Limit Motion Sparks Walkout at MPSC Meeting
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has voted to call on the MAV to cap councillor terms at 12 years. Many saw the move as a strategic swipe at veteran Cr David Gill, who walked out of the chamber after being shut down in debate.
Police appeal for help to locate missing teen Taj
Police are appealing for help to locate missing Skye teenager Taj, last seen on Paradise Way on 6 September. The 15-year-old was wearing black clothing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Carrum Downs Police Station.
Frankston locals invited to put questions to leaders at Ballam Park barbecue
Frankston locals will have the chance to meet Mayor Kris Bolam, Jodie Belyea MP and Paul Edbrooke MP at the Pollies BBQ on Saturday 15 November at Ballam Park.
New Edition of the Somerville Times Now Available
The new edition of the Somerville Times is now available at collection points across the Mornington Peninsula — covering local stories on Helping Hands Somerville, a collapsed NDIS provider, council politics, Peninsula crime updates, and more.
Daylight robbery in Carrum: Victim attacked with metal pole
A Carrum man has been charged after a violent daylight robbery on Dyson Road. Police allege the victim was attacked with a metal pole at a public toilet near a local football club before his car was stolen.
Cash Bounty and Patrol Blitz: Frankston Cracks Down on Graffiti
Frankston City Council has doubled graffiti patrols, slashed response times and introduced a $10,000 cash bounty program to help the community crack down on vandalism.
Wild Winds Batter Victoria: Power Outages Hit Peninsula and Frankston
Destructive winds up to 100km/h left thousands of residents in Frankston and across the Mornington Peninsula without power on Monday, as the SES responded to hundreds of incidents and train services were disrupted.
New Data Compounds Homelessness Crisis Days After Notorious 6 Blocks Emergency Motion
New AIHW and Homelessness Australia data reveals nearly 480 local children are homeless and more than 880 at risk across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.
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.
Notorious Six Turn Their Backs on Homelessness Crisis
The Notorious Six councillors have blocked a motion to declare a homelessness emergency on the Mornington Peninsula. The proposal, which would have cost the Shire no funds, aimed to push state and federal governments to act as the region records Victoria’s highest rates of rough sleeping and three deaths in the past year.
Nominations open for Frankston Citizen of the Year Awards
Nominations are now open for Frankston’s 2026 Citizen of the Year Awards. Residents can nominate local champions or join the selection panel. Entries close 31 October.
Frankston trials free graffiti removal kits for residents
Frankston City Council has launched a 12-month trial offering free graffiti removal kits to residents. The program, running until September 2026, provides households with brushes, gloves, solution and instructions to help tackle vandalism on private property.
Shire Backflips On $2K Expense Loophole After Public Outcry
Mornington Peninsula Shire has been forced into a backflip, reinstating Council votes on interstate travel after public backlash shut down a $2K expense loophole.
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.
$2K No Questions Asked: Shire Looks To Scrap Scrutiny On Councillor Spending
Mornington Peninsula Shire is moving to scrap Council approval for expenses over $2,000 and interstate travel, leaving decisions to the CEO’s pen. Critics warn the change strips away transparency and accountability.
Holding Marsh to His Own Standard: Does His Record Stack Up?
Mornington Peninsula Mayor Anthony Marsh has been the Shire’s most expensive and least performing councillor during the 2020–2024 term. With high allowances, costly trips and few resident requests lodged, his record raises questions of value for ratepayers — especially in light of his criticism of Frankston’s mayor and claims about spending not passing the pub test.
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$72.9m works program aims to future-proof Frankston
Frankston Council has approved a $72.9 million capital works program for 2025–26, with funding for major projects including the Basketball and Gymnastics Stadium, new playgrounds, road and footpath upgrades, and local shopping strip improvements.
Urgent Care Clinic Reaffirmed for Somerville
Somerville will get its promised Medicare Urgent Care Clinic after weeks of uncertainty. Federal Labor has confirmed the bulk-billed, walk-in service will open by late 2025, despite initial tender documents favouring Hastings.
New Superintendent Appointed to Lead Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Police
Superintendent Anne Rudd has been appointed to lead Victoria Police across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. With a strong background in police training and leadership, she says her priority is ensuring the community not only feels safe but is safe, through visible policing and stronger connections with residents.
“Difference Between Eating and Going Without”: Frankston Council Steps In to Support Struggling Families
Frankston Council has stepped in with $45,000 for Community Support Frankston, funding meals, vouchers, and relief for over 2,000 residents hit by cost-of-living pressures.
