“We Don’t Want Skid Row”: Frankston Council Targets Neglected CBD Properties
Frankston Council is targeting run-down commercial properties in the CBD, issuing fines and notices as part of a major clean-up to support local business and public safety.
Rosebud Noise Nuisance Ends After Court Ruling
A Rosebud resident has been fined $2,000 after Mornington Peninsula Shire Council took court action over months of excessive overnight noise. The case is Council's first successful ruling under the Environment Protection Act 2017.
‘Cut Off at the Heels’: Council’s Arts Cuts Disregard Community
The uproar continues following MPSC's decision to cut $480k in arts grants, sparking protests and growing community backlash.
‘Dodgy Builder’ Banned for Life After Supreme Court Ruling
Peninsula Building Projects and its director CJ Fulton have been permanently banned by the Victorian Supreme Court after operating without registration, leaving clients thousands out of pocket.
Wanted on Warrant: Frankston and Mornington Peninsula
Eight people are currently wanted on warrant across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula. Police are calling on the public for help to locate them
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.
Two Hastings Men Charged Over Dromana Ram Raid and South-East Crime Spree
Two men from Hastings have been charged over a string of ram raids across Melbourne’s south-east, including a break-in at a Dromana pharmacy. Police allege the pair targeted multiple businesses in a three-day crime spree.
Debate Denied: Climate Motion Shut Down at Council Meeting
Tensions rise at Mornington Peninsula Council's meeting last night following a series of protests against cuts and policy changes.
Protests on the Peninsula: Community Rallies Against Council Cuts to Arts, Climate and First Nations Support
Over 100 locals rallied in Rosebud against Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s funding cuts to arts, climate action, and First Nations support. Community groups demand urgent reversal.
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.
Sixth Week of Protest Outside Mt Eliza Property Amid Ongoing Horse Welfare Concerns
For the sixth week in a row, protesters gathered outside Maxine Fraser’s Mount Eliza property, calling for action over alleged horse neglect.
Search Underway for Missing Hastings Teen
Police are seeking public assistance to help locate 13-year-old Hayden, who was last seen in Hastings on 20 April. Anyone with information is urged to contact Bayside Police.
Police Appeal for Public Assistance to Locate Shantaya
Police are searching for 12-year-old Shantaya, last seen in Keysborough on 22 May. Known to frequent Berwick, Doveton and Mornington. Public urged to contact Dandenong Police.
Somerville Subdues Bonbeach
From The Somerville Swooper Coming off a demoralising one-point defeat to Crib Point last week, Somerville showed enormous resolve and commitment to overcome Bonbeach in the Round 7 MPNFL fixture at Bonbeach. In a dour, scrappy affair, both teams squandered…
Harbour Frankston Construction Begins, Signalling Major Boost to City Revitalisation
Construction is now underway on Harbour Frankston, a $140 million development delivering new apartments and retail outlets on Nepean Highway. The project is part of the wider revitalisation of Frankston’s city centre.
Mornington Peninsula Council May Sell Properties Over $15M in Unpaid Rates
The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is considering the sale of properties to recover unpaid rates, prompting concerns for elderly and vulnerable homeowners.
Local Champion Honoured for Transforming Rye into a Model of Sustainability
Rye resident Mechelle Cheers has been awarded the Dame Phyllis Frost Local Hero Award for her environmental and community contributions, helping earn Rye recognition at the 2025 Tidy Towns Awards.
‘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.
Explosives, Drugs, and Stolen Property Seized in Cranbourne Raid
Police seize explosives and drugs in Cranbourne raid, leading to woman's arrest. Investigation into theft continues. Call Crime Stoppers with info.
Zoe McKenzie Joins Shadow Ministry, Giving Mornington Peninsula a Front Row Seat
Mornington Peninsula MP Zoe McKenzie has been appointed Shadow Assistant Minister for Education and Mental Health in Susan Ley’s new shadow ministry, giving the region a direct voice in national policy.
Frankston Hospital Helipad Reaches Structural Completion
The Frankston Hospital redevelopment has reached a key milestone with the structural completion of its rooftop helipad. The upgrade aims to improve emergency care and expand health services for the growing south-east Melbourne community.
More Beaches and Sporting Reserves Declared Smoke-Free Across Mornington Peninsula
Mornington Peninsula Shire expands smoke-free zones for healthier environments ahead of World No Tobacco Day, promoting smoke-free beaches and reserves.
Rosebud Police Impound Car After Driver Found Four Times Over Limit
A Rosebud driver has lost his licence and had his car impounded after being caught with a blood alcohol level of 0.20 on the Mornington Peninsula. Police say the man will face court over the serious drink driving offence.
Frankston Man Arrested After 3 Week Violent Crime Spree
A Frankston man has been arrested after a three-week crime spree involving burglaries, vehicle thefts, and an attempted carjacking targeting Melbourne's southeast, including Frankston, Cranbourne, Carrum Downs, Langwarrin, Somerville and Mt Eliza.
Hastings Local Pushes for Stronger Animal Welfare Laws with Dual Parliamentary Petitions
Tracey Asquith from Hastings has launched two state petitions—one backed by Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell and another by Hastings MP Paul Mercurio—urging reform of Victoria's animal welfare laws.
Radio Westernport Officially Launches in Hastings, Giving the Region a New Voice
Radio Westernport has officially launched in Hastings, supported by Atticus Health, Mornington Peninsula Shire and Western Port Secondary College. The station offers students and locals a platform to share their voice through podcasting.
13-Year-Old Arrested After Stolen Porsche Leads Police on 3-Hour Pursuit
A 13-year-old boy was arrested after a high-speed chase in a stolen Porsche in Moorooduc. The pursuit lasted nearly three hours and is part of Operation Trinity targeting youth crime and car thefts.
Kananook Commuter Car Park Opens to Public, Boosting Transport and Community Access
Frankston has opened the Kananook Commuter Car Park, featuring over 300 parking spaces and designed for future expansion. This $22 million project enhances local transport, supports community hubs, and reflects a $85 million investment in the Kananook precinct.
Crib by 1 Point Over Somerville
In a thrilling Round 7 showdown, Crib Point edged out Somerville with a last-minute goal, finalizing the score at 12.7.79 to 12.6.78. Both teams displayed strong defense, but Crib Point capitalized on critical moments to secure victory.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Opens Public Feedback on Draft Strategic Plans
The Mornington Peninsula Shire invites resident feedback on draft strategic plans, including the Council Plan and Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, to address service delivery costs and community needs, with submissions open until 2 July 2025.
Tensions Escalate in Horse Welfare Crisis as Protesters Take Signs to Moorooduc Hwy
Amidst rising tensions, protesters demand RSPCA action against Maxine Fraser in a Mt Eliza horse welfare dispute. STPL News continues coverage.
Chris Crewther MP to Lead 21km Walk for Bowel Cancer Awareness
Chris Crewther MP will lead a 21km coastal walk through Mount Eliza, Mornington, and Mount Martha to raise awareness for early-onset bowel cancer ahead of Bowel Cancer Awareness Month.
Police Investigate Armed Robbery Spree Across Melbourne’s South-East
Police are appealing for information after a string of violent armed robberies at service stations across Melbourne’s south-east. At least ten locations were hit on the same night, with machete-wielding offenders stealing cash, cigarettes, and personal items.
Illegal E-Scooter Impounded on Nepean Highway
A 33-year-old man from Caulfield North has had his e-scooter impounded by Somerville Highway Patrol after being caught riding at 50km/h on Nepean Highway, Mt Eliza. The high-powered scooter, capable of reaching 90km/h, was deemed illegal under Victorian road laws.
Fatal Fire in Langwarrin Under Investigation
A person has died in a house fire on Lyppards Road, Langwarrin. Victoria Police and fire investigators are examining the cause of the early morning blaze.
“We Just Felt Sick”: Local Dog Rescue Reeling After Treasurer Embezzles Funds
“We just felt sick,” says Erin, founder of Mornington Peninsula Dog Rescue, after discovering their now former treasurer had allegedly embezzled thousands. Now the community is helping the group get back on its feet.
Fatal Unit Fire Claims One Life in Frankston
A person has died following a unit fire in Frankston on Thursday, 22 May. Emergency services responded to Franklin Court, where a body was discovered inside the burnt-out unit. Investigation ongoing.
Marsh Responds to Criticism Over Arts Grants and Staff Cost Reductions
Mayor Anthony Marsh says the arts aren't being targeted, despite backlash over grant removals and staff cost cuts. Critics further note contradictions in the council budget statements made by Marsh after the May 20 council meeting.
Frankston Council Prepares $1 Million Hardship Package Amid Cost-of-Living Pressures
Frankston Council is finalising a $1 million hardship package aimed at supporting residents impacted by the cost-of-living crisis. Cr Nathan Butler says the funding was secured through internal savings and will deliver targeted relief for the city’s most vulnerable.
Frankston, Kingston and Mornington Peninsula Councils Eye Cross-Border Collaboration
Frankston Mayor Kris Bolam has announced plans for a regional partnership with Kingston and Mornington Peninsula councils, aiming to address cross-border issues collaboratively. The proposal is expected to go before council in September.
Creative Community Packs Council Meeting as Budget Cuts Proceed
Tensions flared at the latest Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meeting as the arts community protested funding cuts. Protesters packed the gallery, with some comparing the Mayor to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Next Edition of the Somerville Times Lands Tomorrow
The Somerville Times is back with a new edition out tomorrow — covering Flinders election, council chaos, and community wins across the Mornington Peninsula.
Arts Funding Won’t Be Revisited, Says Marsh Ahead of Budget Session
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has relocated its budget meeting from Flinders to Rosebud, citing logistics. Mayor Marsh warns arts funding changes won’t be revisited, despite protest plans.
Teens Charged After High-Speed Chase Ends in Mount Eliza
Two teens — one from the Mornington Peninsula and the other from Greater Dandenong — have been charged after a dramatic four-hour pursuit involving stolen vehicles ended in Mount Eliza.
Off-Duty Police Officer Rescues Two Swimmers at Rosebud Pier
A routine family outing turned into a life-saving mission when off-duty Senior Constable Frank Ferreria rescued two struggling swimmers at Rosebud Pier.
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.
Rye Eclipses Somerville in Round 6
In Round 6 of the MPNFL, Rye outlasted Somerville in tough conditions, winning 78 to 62. Goal kicking woes continued for Somerville, despite strong performances across all grades, writes the Somerville Swooper.
Police Seek Public Help After Attempted Armed Robbery on Frankston Line
Victoria Police are investigating an attempted armed robbery aboard a Frankston-bound train on 23 March 2025. Public help is sought to identify a suspect seen exiting at Cheltenham Station.
St Brendan’s Walks for Safety, Health and Community
Students from St Brendan’s Primary School walked to school on 16 May as part of the 26th Walk Safely to School Day, encouraging health, safety and local connection.
Flinders Election Result Prompts Reflections from Zoe McKenzie, Ben Smith and Sarah Race
Zoe McKenzie has retained Flinders after a close contest against Ben Smith and Sarah Race. All three candidates have spoken out following the result.
Buddy Bench Brings Kindness and Connection to Somerville Rise Primary
Somerville Rise Primary School unveils a new Buddy Bench—its 25th on the Mornington Peninsula—thanks to Mt Martha Men’s Shed and Shire funding.
Mornington Peninsula Schools Step Up for Walk Safely to School Day This Friday
Mornington Peninsula families are set to take part in National Walk Safely to School Day this Friday 16 May, with local schools encouraging students to walk to school to boost health, safety and sustainability.
