Tennille Bradley Begins As Frankston City Council CEO
Frankston City Council says Tennille Bradley has officially started as its new chief executive officer, marking a milestone as the first female CEO in Council history.
Two Boys, 17 And 13, Arrested After High-Speed Police Chase Across Melbourne’s South-East
Two boys aged 17 and 13 have been arrested after a high-speed police follow involving an allegedly stolen white Mazda SUV across Melbourne’s south-east, ending in Berwick, Victoria Police say.
Incident At Somerville Central After Woman Followed And Verbally Abused By Group Of Young Boys
An incident at Somerville Central near Target and Chemist involved a woman being followed and verbally abused by a group of young boys, prompting security attendance and strong community backlash.
Frankston Waterfront Festival Gets $95k Boost
Frankston’s Waterfront Festival will return to the foreshore on 6–7 February 2026, with a $95,000 Revive Live funding boost supporting Australian performers and improved accessibility updates, including large LED screens for real-time information and safety messaging.
Two Arrested Over Alleged ATM Ram Raids, With Incidents In Frankston And Baxter
Two men have been arrested as Victoria Police investigate a series of alleged ATM ram raids across Victoria, with incidents in Frankston and Baxter among those linked to the inquiry. Police allege the offences caused more than $1 million in damage, with court dates now set.
Missing Person Appeal: Jordan, 15, Last Seen About 9pm Sunday
Victoria Police have issued a missing person appeal for Jordan, 15, who was last seen in Mooroolbark about 9pm on Sunday 4 January. Police say there are concerns for her welfare due to her age, and believe she may be travelling through Sunshine, Melbourne CBD, Altona and Frankston. Anyone with information is urged to contact Lilydale Police Station on (03) 9739 2300. Ref: 260005442.
$1 Million Reward Reignites Hunt For Missing Beaumaris Schoolgirl, 50 Years On
Victoria Police have announced a $1 million reward for information about the 1976 disappearance of eight-year-old Eloise Worledge from Beaumaris, in a renewed push to locate her remains and identify those responsible.
Whaler Shark Reported Off Safety Beach After Jet Ski Sighting
A whaler shark has been reported off Safety Beach after a jet ski rider spotted a dorsal fin about 400 metres from shore. The public report was logged on Dorsal Watch as summer shark sightings continue across the Mornington Peninsula.
Rye Man Charged After Police Allege Stolen Jet Ski Found and $11,300 in Counterfeit Cash Seized
Police allege a 32-year-old Rye man was about to leave a Collingwood Street property with a jet ski and trailer stolen from Mannum, South Australia, when officers executed a warrant. Police also allege more than $11,300 in counterfeit cash was seized. The man was bailed to appear at Dromana Magistrates’ Court on 12 February.
‘Very Sus’: Mercurio Claims Mayor Shifted Hastings Parking Rules After Sticker Backlash
A Hastings parking sign dispute that sparked “money grab” claims has intensified after Council blamed incorrect contractor-installed signage and said no infringements were issued, while MP Paul Mercurio later claimed the Mayor advised High Street is now 1P, Monday to Saturday.
Mornington Peninsula and Frankston Beach Report | Week Commencing 12/01/26
Conditions are mixed across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula for the week starting 12 January 2026, with water quality a key consideration, Very High to Extreme UV levels early in the week, and a midweek shift to stronger winds, showers and possible thunderstorms.
Three Rescued After Reports Of People In Trouble Off Frankston Pier
Three people were rescued and brought to shore safely after emergency services responded to multiple reports of people in trouble in the water off Frankston Pier. Police also received reports of people jumping into deep water and urged the public to take extra precautions in extreme heat and windy conditions.
Cut Through The Noise: Fixed Placement, Local Audience, Real Visibility
STPL News is now offering fixed-placement online advertising for Mornington Peninsula and Frankston businesses, reaching 100,000 website visitors a month, 7,000 daily e-news subscribers and 1–2 million Facebook views monthly. Print advertising also returns in February 2026 with 10,000 copies distributed each month.
Second Body Found On Mornington Peninsula As Police Investigate Rye Pier Death
Police are investigating after a man’s body was found floating near Rye Pier on Thursday morning. It was the second death reported on the Mornington Peninsula the same day, after police were called to a campsite in Rosebud earlier that morning.
Man Found Dead At Rosebud Foreshore Camping Grounds
A man has been found dead at the Rosebud Foreshore Camping grounds, with police saying the death is not being treated as suspicious. STPL News attended after a tip-off and police confirmed the man appeared to be experiencing homelessness.
‘Victoria Is Not Bushfire Ready’: Firefighter Groups Issue Statewide Warning
Firefighter groups have issued an open letter warning Victoria, including Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, is “not bushfire ready”, raising concerns about fleet age, funding transparency and hazard-reduction burning as the bushfire season continues.
Hastings Woman Charged Following Drug Bust
Victoria Police report that a drug search warrant executed in Hastings on 6 January allegedly uncovered ICE, cannabis, GHB, prescription medications and an imitation firearm. A 46-year-old Hastings woman has been charged and remanded in custody until April 2026.
Extreme Heat Warning for Wednesday as Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Face Dangerous Conditions
VicEmergency has issued an Advice for extreme heat across Victoria ahead of Wednesday 7 January. This report outlines expected conditions for Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, including local temperature ranges, fire risk and practical safety reminders.
Expert Tips to Avoid Burnout in 2026 as Mornington Peninsula and Frankston Workers Return to Routine
Burnout played a significant role for many workers in 2025, with stress and exhaustion affecting wellbeing and productivity. Burnout specialist Nick Orchard, founder of The Big Refresh, shares practical tips to help Mornington Peninsula and Frankston residents recognise early warning signs and reduce the risk of burnout in 2026.
Police Car Ramming: Wanted Man Charged After Mornington Attack and Bushland Pursuit
A 35-year-old man has been charged after police allege a stolen Toyota Land Cruiser utility rammed a police vehicle multiple times at a Fleet Street unit complex in Mornington last month. The accused, Troy Cunneen, was arrested in Hallam after a short bushland pursuit and is listed to appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court today (05/01/25).
Sam Groth to Quit Politics, Will Not Contest Nepean at 2026 State Election
Victorian Liberal MP Sam Groth has announced he will not continue in Parliament beyond the 2026 state election, citing pressure on his family and internal party issues. His departure leaves the Liberals with a Nepean vacancy less than 12 months from polling day, as the party is also yet to announce a candidate for Hastings.
Mornington Peninsula and Frankston Beach Report (Week commencing 05/01/26)
As at 04/01/26, the week ahead (05/01/26–10/01/26) starts mostly sunny with Extreme UV, peaks with midweek heat, then turns more changeable with showers and wind later in the week. Includes water quality and safety reminders.
Weekend Beach Report: Mornington Peninsula and Frankston (3–4 January 2026)
Weekend beach report for Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, with resolved water quality update, Portsea shark sighting reminder, weather and UV forecast, plus safety tips.
‘Money Grab’ Claims After Hastings Parking Signs Stickered Around New Year’s Day
Photos of sticker overlays on Hastings parking signs have triggered ‘money grab’ claims and confusion over whether time limits applied on the New Year’s Day public holiday. STPL News has contacted Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s CEO and Mayor, as well as ward councillor Cr Michael Stephens, seeking clarification.
Fire Breaks Out During Dromana Drive-In New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Crowd Evacuated
A small fire broke out during Dromana 3 Drive In’s New Year’s Eve fireworks, prompting a precautionary evacuation and CFA response. No injuries or property damage were reported. Crews contained the grass and scrub fire before it reached the freeway.
STPL News 2025 Year in Review: The Stories That Hit Home
A look back at the most-read local stories of 2025, from school safety and animal welfare to major incidents and council accountability. As we start the new year, we remain committed to keeping them accountable.
Crib Point Couple Face Homelessness and Health Challenges After Losing Home in House Fire
Sandra and Kevin lost their Crib Point home in a house fire just after Christmas and are now facing homelessness while Kevin undergoes treatment for stage 4 cancer. Their son has launched a GoFundMe appeal, calling on the Mornington Peninsula community to help them rebuild.
New Year’s Eve 2025: What To Expect Across Frankston And The Mornington Peninsula
New Year’s Eve across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula is expected to be mild, with no council-run fireworks, foreshore alcohol bans and extra patrols in place. Check local weather, vantage points and safety advice before heading out to welcome 2026.
Second White Shark Sighting Reported Off Portsea in Two Days
A three metre white shark has been reported off Portsea for the second day in a row, with the latest sighting logged on the Dorsal app. A photo of the shark can he viewed in the article.
Mornington Peninsula and Frankston Weekly Beach 29/12/25
Beach report for Mornington Peninsula and Frankston week commencing 29/12/25, covering a Portsea shark sighting, the Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach sewage spill advisory, and ongoing bluebottle jellyfish activity. Check warnings before swimming.
Letter to the Editor: Questions That Deserve Answers
Local resident Graham Griffiths raises questions about federal funding, migration settings and humanitarian aid, calling for clearer explanations from government decision-makers in his latest Letter to the Editor.
White Shark Sighting Reported Off Portsea Beach
A 2.5 metre white shark has been reported about 150 metres off Portsea Beach, after a slow-swimming shark was spotted from a boat. Swimmers are urged to stay alert and follow any safety advice from authorities.
House Fire in Crib Point
Firefighters have reportedly brought a house fire in Dartnell Close, Crib Point on the Mornington Peninsula under control. At this stage, no further information about the cause of the blaze has been released.
Austrian Tourist Rescued After Cliff Fall Near Cape Schanck
An Austrian tourist has been airlifted to hospital after a six metre cliff fall at Bushrangers Bay near Cape Schanck, in the second serious cliff incident on the Mornington Peninsula in a week, following a teen’s rescue at Sorrento’s Diamond Bay.
Ratepayers to Foot the Bill as Mayor Claims Credit for Monitors
Mornington Peninsula ratepayers are set to fund the cost of two municipal monitors, paid $1,375 per day each plus expenses, after Mayor Anthony Marsh claimed the appointments were his idea. STPL News examines potential annual costs, the governance context, and what documentation has not been produced publicly.
Sewage Spill Affects Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach
South East Water has reported a sewage spill at Frankston South, sending overflow into Sweetwater Creek and Frankston Beach. Residents are urged to avoid the water while clean up and water quality testing continue.
Peninsula University Hospital Set To Open In January 2026
Peninsula University Hospital will open its new 12 storey clinical tower on 20 January 2026, significantly expanding public hospital services for people in Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula with more beds, new operating theatres, an upgraded emergency department and improved access to specialist care closer to home.
Mornington Peninsula & Frankston Beach Report
In our latest beach report for 27/12/25, bluebottles have been reported across the Peninsula foreshore, while no shark warnings are currently active. Read the full report and check local conditions, water quality forecasts and patrol information before entering the water.
In Case You Missed It: Teen Rescued After Cliff Fall at Sorrento
A teenage boy has been winched to safety after falling from a cliff at Diamond Bay in Sorrento, as reported by the ABC. Emergency services treated him on the rocks before he was flown to hospital with non life threatening injuries, prompting renewed warnings about cliff and coastal safety.
Christmas Day Across the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston: Key Info for Residents
Christmas Day service closures, council contact details and key community support information for residents across the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston.
Somerville Salutes Against Peninsula Old Boys
Somerville Cricket Club delivered a statement win in Round 8, defeating Old Peninsula in a hard-fought one-day contest led by Nick Mann’s steady 61 and Chris Brittain’s five-wicket haul.
Mayor Attempts to Reframe Monitor Appointments As His Idea
Mayor Anthony Marsh says he sought advice about appointing a monitor, as the Victorian Government confirms two municipal monitors will oversee Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for 12 months.
BREAKING | Monitors Appointed to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council
STPL News has been told two monitors have been appointed to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council by the Victorian Minister for Local Government. Once confirmed, the appointments would make Cr Anthony Marsh the first mayor in Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s history to have two monitors appointed at the same time.
Peninsula Safety Measures Announced Ahead of New Year’s Eve Crowds
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has outlined foreshore safety measures ahead of New Year’s Eve 2025, including alcohol restrictions, closures at key locations, prohibited items and transport reminders for visitors planning to celebrate on the Peninsula.
Peninsula-Wide Bluebottle Warning Issued as Sightings Spread from Frankston to Portsea
Bluebottles have been reported across Peninsula beaches from Seaford and Frankston to Portsea, where the back beach closed for periods this week. Here’s what beachgoers should know, including safety advice and first aid steps if stung.
Frankston to Electrify PARC and Arts, Library Precinct Under $2.85m Upgrade
Frankston City Council has announced a $2.85 million electrification project at PARC and the arts and library precinct, aimed at reducing emissions and cutting long-term energy costs.
Police Search for Missing 10-Year-Old Boy Jack in Frankston
Victoria Police are searching for missing 10-year-old Jack, last seen in Violet Street, Frankston about 8.30pm Thursday night. Police urge anyone who sees him to call 000.
St Andrew’s Op Shop King-size Upgrade
St Andrew’s Opportunity Shop in Somerville has moved into a newer, larger premises, boosting display space for donations and making browsing easier for locals.
Cr Cam Williams Backtracks After STPL News Interview, Says “Some” Comments Were “Not Accurate”
Mornington Peninsula Shire councillor Cam Williams has apologised after fallout from an STPL News interview, claiming some comments were “not accurate” and confirming a Council Watch post was removed. STPL News has contacted Williams seeking clarification on what he now disputes.
Hastings Residents Call for Speed Humps to Curb Hooning in West Park Area
Hastings residents are calling for speed humps across West Park residential streets to curb hooning and slow traffic, and want Council to advocate for safer pedestrian crossings along Frankston–Flinders Road.
Final EES Scoping Requirements Published for Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at Port of Hastings
The Victoria Government has published the final scoping requirements for the Environment Effects Statement (EFS) for the proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal at the Port of Hastings, setting out the studies required before the project can be assessed.
Troy Cunneen sought over Mornington police car ramming and outstanding warrants
Victoria Police are seeking information on Troy Cunneen’s whereabouts after a police car ramming in Mornington on 12 December 2025. He is also wanted on five outstanding warrants.
