Zoe McKenzie Provisionally Retains Flinders as Count Nears Completion
Zoe McKenzie is set to retain the federal seat of Flinders, leading independent challenger Ben Smith in a close race. The AEC has not yet declared a final result.
Opinion: The Tobacco Wars – A War Never Fought
OPINION: Renee Heath MP argues that the State government’s failure to act on illicit tobacco trade has created perfect conditions for organised crime.
Two Charged After Homemade Shotgun Seized in Pakenham
A man and woman from Pakenham have been charged after Victoria Police located a homemade shotgun and ammunition during a May 2025 raid.
Independent Ben Smith Closes in on Flinders as AEC Confirms Two-Candidate Contest
Independent Ben Smith is closing in on Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie in the Flinders race, with the two candidates now in a head-to-head contest. The AEC has confirmed the exclusion of Labor's Sarah Race.
Pedestrian Dies After Collision with Illegally Modified E-Bike in Hastings
The Hastings man critically injured in a collision with an illegally modified e-bike has died. Police continue to investigate and say charges may be upgraded.
Police Appeal for Public Help to Locate Missing Teen Nicholas
Police are searching for 17-year-old Nicholas, missing since 4 April in Dandenong. He is known to frequent Bayside and Peninsula areas. Public help is urgently needed.
Former McClelland College Teacher Charged with Child Sexual Offences
A former McClelland College science teacher has been charged with child sexual offences. The case is before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court. VIT registration cancelled.
Arts Community Mobilises Ahead of Council Funding Decision
Arts organisations across the Mornington Peninsula are preparing a coordinated response to proposed council funding changes, fearing the move could jeopardise the viability of the region’s creative sector.
Pedestrian Critical After Collision with Illegally Modified E-Bike in Hastings
A Hastings man is in a critical condition after being hit by an illegally modified e-bike on Frankston-Flinders Road. Police are investigating.
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.
Arts Groups Rally Against Shire’s New Funding Model
Mornington Peninsula arts and performing-arts groups accuse the Shire Council of ambushing them with a competitive funding model, threatening grassroots viability.
Hastings duo charged over violent Peninsula break-ins
STPL News | Peninsula Local | Somerville Times Two Hastings men will appear before Frankston Magistrates’ Court next month, charged over a series of alleged break-ins across Seaford and Crib Point. The pair, both aged 39, were arrested after detectives…
Locals Maintain the Rage Over Maxine’s Starving Horses
Community outrage continues to grow in Mount Eliza, where locals have returned for a second protest against property owner Maxine Fraser, following widely shared images of allegedly starving horses. STPL News was at the scene again to cover the developing story and speak with Wines about the group’s ongoing efforts.
Shire Budget Shake-Up: Councillor Cam Williams Explains New Funding Model
STPL News spoke with Councillor Cam Williams to clarify recent concerns and confusion surrounding changes to the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s budget and funding model.
Shire Not Backing Hastings Club Despite MP News Report
Claims published by MP News this week suggesting the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has “stepped in to save the Hastings Club” have been rejected by local councillor Kate Roper, who says the article is confusing. In a story titled “Shire…
Flinders seat still undecided as record ballot count continues
The Flinders seat remains undeclared as the AEC navigates a record number of ballots and a complex three-candidate preferred count. Zoe McKenzie leads on primary votes and Sarah Race edges past Ben Smith.
Backlash Brewing Over Shire’s Arts Funding Cuts
The Member for Hastings, Paul Mercurio MP, has criticised the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for slashing the Performing Arts Development Fund from $500,000 to $250,000, warning of serious impacts on local arts and culture.
Jodie Belyea Credits Hard Work and Positive Campaign for Dunkley Win
In an interview with RPP FM radio, Jodie Belyea attributes her re-election success to hard work, innovative policies, and personal voter connections in the Dunkley federal election.
Greens Leader Adam Bandt Loses Melbourne Seat in Federal Election Upset
Greens leader Adam Bandt has lost his seat of Melbourne to Labor's Sarah Witty, marking a significant federal election upset and ending Bandt's 15-year tenure in Parliament.
Police Search for Missing Carrum Downs Children
Two 12-year-olds, Jasmine and Cody, are missing after being last seen in Carrum Downs on Tuesday afternoon. Police are calling for public assistance.
Tensions Flare at Mornington Shire Council Meeting as Divisions Deepen
A fiery Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meeting exposed deep divisions between councillors, raising concerns over ethics, representation, and governance across the peninsula.
Police Investigate Truck Theft and Fire in Frankston
Police are investigating the theft of a truck from a Frankston home on 19 April. The vehicle was later found ablaze in Baxter Park. Investigators are appealing for public assistance.
McCrae couple wins legal fight against Mornington Peninsula Shire over $1.25 million landslip bill
A McCrae couple has won a major legal victory over the Mornington Peninsula Shire, after being told they’d have to pay $1.25 million to stabilise a cliff behind their home.
Parliamentary Petition Launched Over Mt Eliza Horse Welfare Crisis
A parliamentary petition initiated by a local resident addresses horse neglect at a Mt Eliza property, seeking stronger animal protection laws. It follows community outrage and protests over the welfare of over 30 neglected horses.
Police Appeal for Witnesses After Dandenong Stabbing Incident
Victoria Police are appealing for witnesses after a 28-year-old man was stabbed on Thomas Street, Dandenong. CCTV footage has been released as the investigation continues.
Sarah Race’s Effective Grassroots Campaign – RPP FM Interview
Labor’s Sarah Race ran a strong grassroots campaign in the 2025 Flinders electorate, door-knocking 10,000 homes and nearly matching Ben Smith’s primary vote—despite being outspent by Zoe McKenzie and Smith.
Labor Secures Historic Second Term as Coalition and Greens Suffer Major Setbacks
Labor has claimed victory in the 2025 federal election, returning Anthony Albanese as Prime Minister. Peter Dutton loses Dickson, Greens collapse, and Flinders remains undecided.
Zoe McKenzie Likely to Retain Flinders, But Local Swings Show Regional Divide
Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie holds Flinders in 2025 election. Regional divides emerge; support grows in Somerville but wanes in Rosebud and Dromana. Final results pending.
Labor Retains Dunkley as Albanese Secures Second Term
Labor wins 2025 federal election; Jodie Belyea retains Dunkley. Flinders remains uncertain. Stay updated with STPL News.
2025 Live Election Coverage: Dutton Loses Seat
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is projected to lose his Queensland seat of Dickson, with Labor's Ali France leading. If confirmed, this marks a significant political shift and Dutton's first loss since 2001.
Conroy Sign on War Memorial Prompts Election Day Fury
Outrage has erupted in Frankston after a campaign sign for Liberal candidate Nathan Conroy was placed on a local war memorial on election day, prompting swift removal and fierce backlash.
Dunkley Decides: Final Hours of Voting in Crucial Federal Contest
The 2025 federal election is underway in Dunkley, a critical seat for the Albanese Government. Voters have until 6pm to decide between Labor’s Jodie Belyea and Liberal’s Nathan Conroy.
Liberal Stronghold at Risk: Flinders Faces Political Earthquake
The 2025 federal election sees Flinders' long-standing Liberal seat under threat as Independent Ben Smith gains momentum against incumbent Zoe McKenzie.
Election Fatigue Sets In
Election fatigue is rising across Victoria as voters face back-to-back campaigns. With no major electoral break until 2027, Frankston and Mornington Peninsula mental health services are feeling the strain.
Flinders Candidate Ben Smith Faces Scrutiny Over Campaign Ties to Pro-Palestinian Activists
Flinders candidate Ben Smith is facing last-minute scrutiny over his campaign team’s links to pro-Palestinian activism, with Climate 200 distancing itself from staff involved in controversial protests and public statements.
Mornington Locals Rally Around Family of Nathan Abeling After Tragic Fishing Accident
Mornington locals are rallying behind the family of 22-year-old Nathan Abeling, who died after being struck by a freak wave during a fishing trip. A GoFundMe has raised over $15,000.
Political Support Grows following Mornington Peninsula Horse Welfare Protest
Urgent support in Mornington Peninsula for horse protection at Mount Eliza grows with political backing. Community rally for intervention.
Community Fundraiser Delivers $35,000 Boost for New Rosebud Hospital Service
The Village Glen and Rosebud residents raised nearly $35,000 through the Feb 50 Appeal to fund a new Lymphedema Service at Rosebud Hospital, offering local specialised care.
Missing Teen: Police Seek Help to Find Aleisha
14-year-old Aleisha is missing after last being seen on Eastbourne Road, Rosebud, on Monday afternoon. Police are urging anyone with information to contact Rosebud Police Station.
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.
Pearcedale Edges Somerville
In a thrilling round 3 MPNFL match, Pearcedale narrowly defeated Somerville by 2 points, with key performances from Brett Eddy and Lachlan Haskett. The match mirrored the spirit of traditional country footy amid a packed crowd.
Stylish Bargains for a Good Cause
Find stylish gifts and homewares at unbeatable prices at Mornington’s It's Okay Not To Be Okay sale on 3 May.
Men 60 and Over – Find Mates and Conversation at OM:NI Hastings!
Men aged 60 and over are invited to join OM:NI Hastings, a welcoming men’s support and discussion group meeting twice monthly at The Hub. Find mateship and meaningful conversation.
Inside Maxine’s Equine House of Horrors: A Community’s Battle Over Horse Welfare
Maxine Fraser, once a local horse breeder, now faces serious community outrage and ongoing RSPCA investigations over disturbing allegations of starvation, inbreeding, and cruelty on the Mornington Peninsula.
Over 700 Impaired Drivers Caught in Victoria Police Road Blitz
Victoria Police caught more than 700 drink and drug drivers during Operation Compass, a major road safety blitz over Easter and Anzac Day. Nine fatal collisions were also recorded.
Community Demands Action Over Horse Welfare at Mornington Peninsula Protest
Community anger over horse welfare concerns at a Mount Eliza property reached a tipping point yesterday, with hundreds of residents gathering to call for urgent action. STPL News brings you this story.
Somerville Woman’s Maccas Trip Costs Her Wheels After Drink-Driving Arrest
A fast-food run turned costly for a Somerville woman after she allegedly blew three times over the limit at a Mornington drive-thru. Her vehicle was impounded and she faces drink-driving charges.
Community Raises Alarm Over Horse Welfare in Mt Eliza Ahead of Planned Protest
Fresh concerns over horse welfare at a Mt Eliza property have led to a planned community protest. STPL News investigates the latest claims, past incidents, and RSPCA Victoria’s ongoing response.
Where to Vote on the Mornington Peninsula – Federal Election 2025
Voters on the Mornington Peninsula can cast their ballots on Election Day, Friday 3 May 2024, at polling booths across the region. Early voting options are also available. Here's the full list of locations.
Police Crack Down on Illegal Dirt Bikes and Hoon Behaviour in Pines Reserve
Carrum Downs Police have ramped up patrols in the Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve as part of Operation Rolling Boulder, targeting illegal dirt bike use and hoon behaviour threatening community safety and wildlife.
Letter to the Editor: Democracy on the Doorstep
In a letter to the editor, Rye resident Anne Kruger writes about the Flinders election and the importance of respectful debate, community spirit, and democratic participation.
Man Dies After Being Washed Off Rocks at Cape Schanck
A man has died after being swept into the ocean at Cape Schanck on Anzac Day. Emergency crews launched a search, but the man could not be revived.
