Federal Election: Tensions Rise in Flinders Campaign—Despite No Election Date Yet
The race for the federal seat of Flinders is heating up, with Zoe McKenzie, Ben Smith, and Sarah Race battling for votes—despite no election date yet. Campaign spending, advertising controversies, and political clashes are shaping the contest.
Kafkaesque Bureaucracy Leaves Hazardous Trees Dangling Over Mornington Peninsula Roads
Mornington Peninsula residents warn of dangerous overhanging trees on Nepean Highway, with fears they could collapse onto traffic. Despite reports to government officials, no action has been taken.
Western Port Craft Expo Returns to Hastings This April
Head down to the Western Port Craft Expo on April 12, 2025! Discover local artisans, hands-on workshops, and fun activities for all ages at Hastings Community Hub.
Man Charged Following Dromana Hit-and-Run Incident
Dromana, VIC – A 36-year-old Dromana man has been charged following an alleged hit-and-run incident that occurred on Sunday night in Dromana. At approximately 9:30 pm on 9 March 2025, a 48-year-old woman from Craigieburn and her dog were crossing Pier Street when they were struck by a white 4WD vehicle. According to investigators, the […]
Honesty Box Bread Shut Down in Mount Martha Following Resident Complaint
A beloved honesty box bread system in Mount Martha has been shut down after a resident’s complaint, with council regulations requiring a costly permit. Locals express frustration over the decision.
Local Councils Join Forces to Make Beaches Safer
Mornington Peninsula and neighbouring councils have launched a new Water Safety Framework to tackle rising drowning rates. Learn how the Beachsafe app and patrolled beaches can help keep swimmers safe.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Boosts Road Maintenance Budget for 2025
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has increased its road maintenance budget for 2025, with 35 roads set for renewal under the Roads to Recovery project. Community feedback will shape future improvements.
Police Arrest 35 in A Single Day During Frankston Crackdown
Police arrested 35 people in a large-scale operation targeting crime, road safety, and water safety in Frankston. Offenders were caught for firearms, burglary, and traffic offences.
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.
Frankston Neighbourhood Policing Forum: Community Safety Discussion
Frankston residents are invited to take part in an important discussion on community safety at the upcoming Frankston PSA Neighbourhood Policing Forum this Thursday, 6th March 2025.
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.
Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee Festival Celebrates First Peoples’ Culture
The Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee festival saw over 2,000 people gather at Emu Plains Reserve to celebrate First Peoples’ culture with performances, workshops, and community activities.
Brad Cox Brings His National Tour to Frankston’s Pier Bandroom
Award-winning country artist Brad Cox is bringing his national tour to Frankston’s Pier Bandroom on 15 March 2025. Fresh off multiple Golden Guitar wins and a new single ‘I’m a Boxer’ dropping 12 March, Cox is set to deliver an unforgettable live show. Read to find out more.
Opening Dialog with Local Police Over Coffee in Somerville
Hastings Police and Neighbourhood Watch hosted ‘Coffee with a Cop’ in Somerville, fostering open discussions with the community. Learn about the event and the upcoming Emergency Services Open Day at Hastings Foreshore.
Rosebud Hospital A Key Election Issue in Flinders
Calls for a fully functioning Rosebud Hospital are growing ahead of a Sunday protest, with concerns that Frankston Hospital is too far for southern Mornington Peninsula residents.
Concerns for Missing Man Jack Last Seen on Frankston to Stony Point Train
Victoria Police are seeking public assistance to find Jack, a 22-year-old from Dingley Village, last seen boarding a train at Frankston Station on 19 February, heading towards Stony Point.
Coffee with a Cop: Meet Your Local Police Over a Cuppa in Somerville
Join Victoria Police for Coffee with a Cop on Saturday, 1st March 2025, at Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse, Somerville. A great opportunity to discuss community issues, meet local officers, and connect—especially for those who use Auslan.
Homeowners at Risk as Council Cracks Down on $15M in Unpaid Rates
The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is considering selling homes to recover $15M in unpaid rates. Residents and Ratepayer Groups fear the policy could push struggling families into financial ruin.
Frankston High School Parents Demand Answers Over Teacher Absences
Parents at Frankston High School are demanding accountability after ongoing teacher absences forced Year 11 students to teach themselves in vital VCE subjects.
Community Input Sought for Morce Avenue Sorrento Car Park Expansion
The Mornington Peninsula Shire is seeking public input on four proposed designs to expand the Morce Avenue car park in Sorrento.
Crime Protest Intensifies as Organiser Responds to Paul Mercurio’s Statement
Residents of Hastings, Somerville, and Frankston South protest outside Paul Mercurio MP’s office, demanding stronger action on rising crime. Protest organiser Rowan May criticises Mercurio’s response, citing inaction and lack of engagement.
Two Men Arrested After Stealing Passenger Bus in Seaford
Two men have been charged after allegedly breaking into a Seaford depot and stealing a decommissioned passenger bus. Both will face court in March.
Free-for-All in McCrae as Daily Looting Ensues
Displaced McCrae residents say their evacuated homes are being looted daily, with police unable to intervene due to ongoing safety concerns after the January 14 landslide.
Tyabb Man Scammed in Vehicle Sale
A Tyabb man has fallen victim to a Facebook Marketplace scam while trying to sell his vehicle. Learn how to avoid falling victim to the same scam.
Infant Dies at Skye Family Daycare, Police Investigating
SKYE, VIC – Police are investigating the tragic death of an infant at a family daycare centre in Melbourne’s outer south-east on Wednesday afternoon. Emergency services were called to a property on Balinga Drive, Skye, at approximately 2:05 pm following reports of an incident at the daycare facility. Multiple police units attended the scene, with […]
Five Men Arrested After Attempted Home Invasion in Cranbourne North
Police have arrested five men following an attempted home invasion in Cranbourne North, where suspects stole a dirt bike before being intercepted. Investigations are ongoing.
Lifeguard Bashed at Narre Warren Pool: Five Charged
A 19-year-old lifeguard was allegedly attacked by a group of youths at a Narre Warren swimming pool. Five people have been charged following police raids.
Teenagers Charged After Stolen Car Dumped in Frankston
Three teenagers have been charged after an aggravated burglary in St Andrews Beach led to a high-speed police chase and the recovery of two stolen vehicles in Frankston. Victoria Police are investigating further.
McCrae Landslide: Residents Return Home to Find Houses Ransacked
Residents returning home after the McCrae landslide were shocked to find their houses ransacked. Authorities are investigating as recovery efforts continue.
Frankston Police to Host Neighbourhood Policing Forum
Join Victoria Police at the Frankston PSA Neighbourhood Policing Forum on 6th March 2025 to discuss crime prevention, road policing, youth concerns, and more. Register now!
McCrae Landslide: Residents Eager to Return Home
Investigations into the McCrae landslide are progressing, with authorities focused on determining the cause and ensuring the safe return of displaced residents.
Women’s Community Shelters Secures Funding for New Housing in the Region
The Albanese Government’s Crisis and Transitional Accommodation Program will fund three new dwellings in the region for vulnerable women and children. In an interview with RPP FM, Labor candidate Sarah Race highlights the impact of this initiative.
Major Multi-Vehicle Collision in Pearcedale Leaves Six Injured
A serious crash involving a truck and six vehicles in Pearcedale has left six injured, causing road closures on Baxter-Tooradin Road. Authorities urge caution.
2025 Frankston Waterfront Festival Draws 45,000 Attendees
The 2025 Frankston Waterfront Festival drew over 45,000 attendees for a weekend of live music, food, activities, and fireworks. See the event highlights here.
Duo Charged After Seizure of Vehicles, Drugs, and Stolen Firearm in Safety Beach As Mornington Peninsula Grapples with 29.1% Increase in Crime
Mornington Peninsula, Victoria – Crime has surged by 29.1% across the Mornington Peninsula, with police grappling with rising drug offences, firearm-related crimes, and property theft. Recent data from the Crime Statistics Agency Victoria reveals that criminal incidents increased from 6,911 in 2023 to 8,919 in 2024, marking a significant spike in offences across the region. […]
Police Charge Teens After Terrorising Locals in Somerville with Fake Guns
Three teenagers have been charged after allegedly brandishing imitation firearms at Somerville Central Shopping Centre, adding to public calls for tougher youth crime laws.
Rebuilding of Historic Dromana Pier Set to Begin This Autumn
Parks Victoria is set to commence reconstruction of the historic Dromana Pier this autumn. The new design will enhance accessibility, maintain the pier’s original length, and improve safety features. Completion is expected in 2026.
Teens Terrorise Locals Using Fake Guns in Somerville
Three teenage boys have been arrested after allegedly stealing and brandishing imitation firearms at Somerville Central Shopping Centre. Police are appealing for witnesses.
Hastings Footy Clinic Draws Huge Turnout, Promotes Youth Engagement
More than 200 young footy enthusiasts gathered at Hastings Football Club on Wednesday for a special AFL community clinic, a joint initiative led by the St Kilda Football Club, AFL Victoria, Hastings Police, Western Port Neighbourhood Watch, the Rotary Club of Hastings, and Hastings Football Club.
Thrown Under the Bus: Mayor Refutes Premier’s Comments on McCrae Landslide Response
Mornington Peninsula Mayor Anthony Marsh has responded to the Victorian Premier’s inquiry into the McCrae landslide, defending the Council’s actions and calling for state support. Read more on STPL News.
Police Seek Public Assistance to Locate Wanted Individuals
Victoria Police are searching for Daniel Cruse, Hunter Scott, and Paul Wardle, who are wanted for unrelated offences. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
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.
Public Appeal: 14-Year-Old Trip Missing from Safety Beach
Police are seeking public assistance to locate 14-year-old Trip, last seen in Safety Beach on 1st February 2025. Anyone with information should contact Rye Police.
Zoe McKenzie MP Calls for Relief Amid Inflation Figures
Member for Flinders, Zoe McKenzie, highlights financial pressures in her electorate, urging interest rate relief despite encouraging inflation figures.
Massive Traffic Surge Crashes STPL News Website, Signals Rapid Growth
STPL News saw an unprecedented surge of nearly 120,000 visitors in four hours, temporarily crashing its website. With readership at an all-time high, now is the perfect time for businesses to advertise.
Langwarrin Park Primary School Principal Charged with Possessing Child Abuse Material
Langwarrin, Victoria – The principal of Langwarrin Park Primary School, Richard Barren, has been charged with possessing child abuse material following an investigation by local authorities reports the Herald Sun. Parents of children attending Langwarrin Park Primary School received an alarming letter from the Department of Education detailing that Principle Richard Barren had been charged […]
Paid Parking ‘Dead and Buried’ as Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Confirms
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh confirms that paid parking is officially scrapped following public feedback. Read article for full details.
Shire Seeking Clarification Arthurs Seat Eagle Development
Mornington Peninsula shire Council is seeking clarification over development proposals for the Arthurs Seat Eagle.
Tyabb Air Show 2024 Named Community Event of the Year
The Tyabb Air Show 2024, hosted by the Peninsula Aero Club (PAC), has been recognised as the Community Event of the Year by Mornington Peninsula Shire. The award highlights the event’s role in supporting local charities, businesses, and the region’s aviation history. For over 60 years, PAC has organised biennial air shows, with proceeds benefiting […]
Frankston Teen Charged After High-Speed Police Chase Following Aggravated Burglary
Moorabbin Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a 15-year-old Frankston boy following an alleged aggravated burglary and police pursuit that unfolded across Brighton and Melbourne overnight. According to police, unknown offenders forced entry into a residence on Orchard Street, Brighton, at approximately 1.45 am, stealing three high-end vehicles—a Porsche, a Mercedes, and a Land Rover. […]