Editorial Ethics in the Spotlight as McKenzie Confronts MPNG Ahead of Election
Zoe McKenzie has renewed her criticism of the Mornington Peninsula News Group, accusing the publisher of printing false letters under fake names.
Somerville Highway Patrol Nightshift Crew Nab 20 Offenders in One Week
Somerville Highway Patrol officers processed 20 offending drivers during a single week of nightshift patrols. Offences ranged from drug and drink driving to suspended licences and unroadworthy vehicles. Several cars were impounded as part of the statewide Operation Compass crackdown.
Anzac Day 2025 Services on the Mornington Peninsula
Residents of the Mornington Peninsula are invited to attend Anzac Day services on Friday, 25 April 2025, commemorating the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing. Thirteen townships across the region will host dawn services, marches, and remembrance ceremonies to honour…
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.
Crash Settlement Finalised, Andrews Now Facing Defamation Action
Ryan Meuleman has secured a confidential payout from Slater & Gordon nearly 10 years after being hit by the former premier’s SUV. The family is now pursuing a defamation case against Daniel and Catherine Andrews.
Zoe McKenzie Doubles Down on Criticism of Mornington Peninsula News Group
Zoe McKenzie has called out the Mornington Peninsula News Group for publishing more fake news, intensifying scrutiny over editorial standards during the election campaign.
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.
88-Year-Old Somerville Woman Dies After Fatal Mt Eliza Collision
An 88-year-old woman from Somerville has died after a single-vehicle crash on Wooralla Drive in Mount Eliza. Police are investigating the cause of the collision.
Police Investigate Armed Burglary in Mount Martha
Police are investigating a burglary in Mount Martha on 10 April, where a resident confronted an intruder armed with a weapon. CCTV images have been released as detectives seek public assistance.
Mike Brown Labels Ben Smith a “Con” and Slams Clive Palmer–Teal Preference Deal
In an interview with STPL News, One Nation candidate Mike Brown accused Independent Ben Smith of being insincere and aligned with the Teals and Simon Holmes à Court. Brown also drew comparisons between Holmes à Court and Clive Palmer, labelling both as political “wreckers” amid ongoing campaign disputes.
Liberals Pledge $900 Million for Baxter Rail Line Extension in Dunkley
Nathan Conroy and Zoe McKenzie announce a $900 million Liberal Party pledge to extend the Baxter rail line, aiming to improve transport access to Frankston Hospital and Monash University.
Concerns Mount Over Future of Flinders Pier as Funding Falls Short
Save Flinders Pier campaigners warn the Victorian Government may only partially restore the historic pier, as new documents reveal budget shortfalls and minimal funding spent on actual repairs.
Jason Smart Quits Federal Race, Slams Party Over Teal Preference Deal
Trumpet of Patriots candidate Jason Smart has withdrawn from the Flinders federal race, slamming his party’s decision to preference candidate Ben Smith ahead of conservative contenders.
Police Appeal for Help to Locate Missing Carrum Woman with Dementia
Victoria Police are searching for Judy, 83, who went missing from Carrum after taking a rideshare to Seaford. She has dementia and may be at risk.
Police Appeal for Dash Cam Footage After Serious Collision on Mornington Peninsula Freeway
A high-speed crash near Dromana has prompted police to seek public assistance. Dash cam footage may help investigators piece together how the incident unfolded.
Two Disqualified Drivers Caught Drug Driving Overnight in Seaford and Langwarrin
Somerville Highway Patrol intercepted two disqualified drivers overnight in Seaford and Langwarrin, both testing positive for drugs. Their vehicles were impounded and both will face court.
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.
Backlash Over Mayor’s Comments as Hastings Community Demands Answers
Outrage is growing in Hastings after Mayor Marsh's remarks on the club's closure. Community leaders point to council inaction, unequal funding, and long-standing neglect of the Western Port region.
Somerville Times Edition 022 – Out Now!
The latest Somerville Times (Edition 022) discusses the 2025 Federal Election, community empowerment initiatives, a controversial council rate hike, local sports updates, and concerns over council decisions favouring affluent areas. Support independent journalism!
Mayor Marsh Washes Hands of Hastings Club, Eyes New Use for Building
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh says council had “little choice” but not to fund the Hastings Club, sparking criticism and reigniting concerns of neglect in the Western Port area.
Liberal Candidate Calls Out “Fake News” Over Published Letter
Liberal candidate Zoe McKenzie has called a local news publication for publishing a letter she claims is filled with false information. The incident highlights the risks of misinformation in the lead-up to the 2025 federal election.
FMAC Structure Plan Approved for Frankston
Frankston’s FMAC Structure Plan has been added to the planning scheme, providing certainty for future development and investment, RPP FM reports.
Concern for Missing Dandenong Toddler as Police Launch Urgent Search
Police are appealing for public assistance to locate three-year-old Erin and her mother, last seen in Warburton on Monday. The pair may have travelled through Echuca and are believed to be in a white Mitsubishi Triton with the number plates 1RR1ZF.
In Print: Latest Edition of the Somerville Times Available Tomorrow
The latest edition of the Somerville Times is rolling off the press and will be available for pickup at local collection points starting tomorrow.
New Boutique Hotel Development Site in Rye Hits the Market
A new boutique hotel may soon rise in Rye, with a development-approved site at 6 Napier Street now on the market.
Veterans Urge Community to Attend ANZAC Day Services
Veterans and the RSL are calling on locals to turn out in force this ANZAC Day. Services will be held across the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston.
Paterson Lakes: Driver Hits 200km/h and Rams Police Car
A 27-year-old woman has been arrested after allegedly driving at 200km/h, colliding with a police vehicle, and fleeing the scene in Paterson Lakes. She is expected to face multiple charges.
Letter to the Editor – Disappointing Old School Politics.
Letter to the Editor: Tracey Asquith discusses the political excitement surrounding the 2025 election, emphasizing support for independent candidate Ben Smith and the importance of a diverse crossbench in government.
Would This Happen in Mornington? Tyabb FC Forced to Cancel Game Due to Council Failure
Tyabb Football Netball Club volunteers were forced to fill rabbit holes on Bunyguyan Reserve’s top oval after MPSC failed to deliver promised repairs, highlighting ongoing infrastructure neglect in Western Port. With the council's budget approaching, many wonder: Will Western Port be forgotten again?
Who Do You Stand With? STPL News Wants to Hear From Local Supporters This Election
STPL News invites Flinders residents to share authentic opinions on local election candidates for a special feature, focusing on community voices and pressing issues.
Western Port Left Behind? Council Decisions Highlight Uneven Support Across the Peninsula
The Mornington Peninsula exhibits a growing divide between its Western Port residents and affluent coastal communities. The closure of the Hastings Club substantiates this inequality, as the Shire neglects Western Port in favour of better-funded Port Phillip facilities like the Mt Martha Golf Club.
Council’s 3% Rate Hike Misses the Mark with Residents
Mornington Shire's 3% rate increase has faced backlash from residents, particularly in lower-income areas like Hastings, who argue the burden of recovery from the McCrae landslide unfairly falls on them. Deputy Mayor Pingiaro cited financial pressures and a lack of state support, but many feel betrayed after promises of a rate freeze during the election.
Inspire Change Crew: Bindi & Callum’s Mission to Empower At-Risk Youth
Inspire Change Crew, led by Bindi and Callum, is empowering at-risk youth through mentorship, life skills, and opportunities for personal growth. Learn how their initiative is reshaping the future for troubled youth by focusing on early intervention and positive guidance.
Mayor Responds to Inspectorate Investigation Reports: “Nothing Beyond Routine Checks”
Mayor Anthony Marsh of Mornington Peninsula Shire has downplayed speculation of an investigation by the Local Government Inspectorate, emphasizing routine post-election procedures.
Deputy Mayor Pleads for Understanding Over Council’s Rate Rise Backflip as Residents Lash Out
The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has voted unanimously to increase rates by the maximum 3%, despite several councillors previously campaigning on a rate freeze. Deputy Mayor Paul Pingiaro says the move is necessary to avoid financial collapse, but local residents have reacted with anger.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Votes for Maximum 3% Rate Rise
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has voted to apply the full 3% rate cap for 2025–26, despite several councillors having campaigned for a rate freeze just five months ago.
Frankston Council to Consider Graffiti Bounty
Frankston City Council is proposing a community-driven initiative to combat graffiti, aiming to reduce the $500,000 annual clean-up costs through engagement and rewards.
Victoria Police Urge Reporting of Sexual Offences Linked to Dating Apps
Victoria Police are urging victims of sexual offences connected to dating apps to report incidents, highlighting the importance of affirmative consent and access to support services.
Is the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Under Investigation?
STPL News has received reports that the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council may be under investigation by the Local Government Inspectorate.
Prayer and Preferences? Curious Alliance in Flinders Sparks Controversy
A quiet prayer between Flinders candidates Ben Smith and Mike Brown has ignited political controversy, with claims of preference discussions denied by both parties.
Southern Peninsula Support Centre Prepares for Increased Winter Demand
The Southern Peninsula Community Support Centre expects increased demand this winter, with CEO Jeremy Maxwell highlighting uncertainty in government funding and ongoing community reliance.
Police Enforcement Blitz Across Victoria
Victoria Police are increasing road safety enforcement across the state during the April school holidays and Easter long weekend, warning motorists to remain cautious despite recent reductions in road trauma.
Somerville Triumphs Over Karingal
Somerville started their 2025 MPFNL Division 2 campaign with a commanding 51-point win over Karingal. A strong first half, standout performances, and a packed home crowd set the tone for the season.
Race Raises Stakes: Labor’s $1.3 Million Promise to Hastings
Labor’s Sarah Race commits $1.3 million to Hastings Recreation Reserve upgrades, lifting total Western Port sporting pledges to $1.55 million and increasing pressure on the Liberals.
Public Tips Lead Police to Alleged Drink Driver in Seaford
A 53-year-old Seaford man allegedly returned a 0.245% BAC after being intercepted by police on Saturday. Public reports led to his arrest and vehicle impoundment.
Western Port Communities Demand Better Sports Infrastructure After Club Closure
The Hastings Club's closure highlights long-term underinvestment in Western Port, with residents vocally criticizing the Council's inadequate support for local sports infrastructure over decades.
Police Renew Cape Schanck Search for Missing Man Sergio Cuesta
Victoria Police are conducting a renewed search at Cape Schanck for missing 28-year-old Sergio Cuesta, last seen in September 2023. His case is treated as a homicide, with four murder charges filed.
RPP FM Interview: Shire Inaction Forced Hastings Club Closure, Says Board Member
The Hastings Club shut down due to ignored repair requests, board member Kevin Miles said. He criticized the council for inaction and highlighted a systemic disregard for the Western Port area.
Police Search for Missing 13-Year-Old Girl Sheanna
Police are seeking public help to find 13-year-old Sheanna, missing since April 2 in Montrose. Concerns grow for her safety; she may be in the Pakenham, Dandenong, or Doveton areas.
Labor’s $250K Pledge Overshadowed by Liberal’s $5M Somerville Commitment
As the federal election approaches in May, Somerville Recreation Reserve's future is pivotal, with Labor's $250,000 and Liberal's $5 million funding promises competing, highlighting community priorities and the need for feedback on the master plan.
Police Appeal to Locate Missing Woman Moira
Police are searching for 50-year-old Moira, last seen on 27 March 2025. Frankston Eyewatch Police have shared the appeal.
Hastings Club Hits Back at Mercurio’s Claim
Hastings MP Paul Mercurio claimed the Hastings Club is not a not-for-profit, but official records tell a different story. The club has pushed back, calling for clarity and support.
