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.
Tag Mornington Peninsula News
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.
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Trumpet of Patriots candidate Jason Smart has withdrawn from the Flinders federal race, slamming his party’s decision to preference candidate Ben Smith ahead of conservative contenders.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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Not Holding Back Criticism
Hastings Club board member Kevin Miles criticizes the Mornington Peninsula Shire for neglecting Western Port communities following the club's closure due to a leak. He claims the Shire failed to provide financial support, leading to the club's liquidation and community frustration.
Hastings Club Fallout Exposes Widespread Neglect in Western Port
Prompted by STPL News’ coverage of the Hastings Club collapse, a local volunteer has exposed systemic neglect across sporting facilities in Somerville, Tyabb and Hastings, calling for urgent action.
Police Seek Public Assistance Following Frankston Burglary
Police are investigating a burglary in Parwan Court, Frankston, where jewellery was stolen. Image released of a man who may assist with enquiries
Learner Driver Caught at 200km/h in Cranbourne North Street Race
An 18-year-old learner from Clyde North has been caught driving at 200km/h during a suspected street race in Cranbourne North. Police are still searching for the second driver.
Hastings Club Collapse Raises Questions Over Council Neglect
After a prolonged closure caused by delayed building repairs, the Hastings Club has entered liquidation. Community leaders are questioning Mornington Peninsula Shire’s handling of the issue.
Frankston City Council’s Call for Support on Key Projects
Frankston Council is urging election candidates to support funding for emergency relief, infrastructure upgrades, and a $11.7M active transport network to better connect the city.
Federal Election Called for May 3
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced Australia’s federal election will take place on May 3, with major parties focusing on cost-of-living and economic policies.
Another Senior Departure at Mornington Peninsula Shire
Another senior leader has resigned from Mornington Peninsula Shire, with insider reports suggesting more exits to come. Is this a restructure or something bigger?
Arsonists Cause $2M Damage in Dandenong South Truck Yard Fires
Victoria Police are investigating two suspicious fires at a Dandenong South truck yard, causing nearly $2 million in damages. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Three More Charged in Lyndhurst Murder Case
Victoria Police have charged three more individuals in connection with the fatal stabbing of Timothy Leek in Lyndhurst. Investigations continue, with authorities urging witnesses to come forward.
Greens Candidate Lives Almost Two Hours Away
Greens candidate Adam Frogely lives 130 km from Sorrento and 96km from Somerville, raising questions about his ability to represent the electorate. Can passion compensate for distance and perhaps, logic?
What Is Going On at the Shire?
Reports from an insider are that the Mornington Peninsula Shire's Director of Planning, Renae Littlejohn, has suddenly left the role. The insider further reports high staff turnover and low morale within the organisation.
Mornington Peninsula Couple’s $2,000 Daily Medical Bill in China
A Mornington Peninsula couple’s holiday turned into a nightmare when David Crowley suffered heart failure in China, leaving them with $2,000-a-day hospital bills. A GoFundMe campaign raised over $16,000 to help cover costs.
Labor Extends $150 Energy Bill Rebate
The Albanese government is extending its $150 energy bill rebate for households and small businesses as part of a $1.8 billion cost-of-living package in the 2025 federal budget.
Peninsula Community Legal Centre Supports VALS in Condemning Bail Reform Changes
The Peninsula Community Legal Centre supports the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) in condemning proposed bail reform changes, calling for a statutory review before any amendments are made.
Teenager Charged After Passenger Killed in Fatal Pakenham Crash
A 16-year-old has been charged with culpable driving after a fatal collision in Pakenham last November. Police allege the Audi involved was stolen.
Unlicensed Motorcyclist Loses Bike After Alleged Drug Driving in Skye
A 50-year-old Dandenong man has lost his motorcycle after allegedly riding under the influence of drugs in Skye. His bike was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1,115.
41 Caught Drink or Drug Driving in Nepean Highway Blitz
Victoria Police caught 41 motorists driving under the influence during a two-night blitz on Nepean Highway. Officers conducted 4,747 breath tests and intercepted multiple offenders.
Three Men Charged After Firearms Seized in Cranbourne Police Operation
Three men have been charged after Victoria Police seized firearms during Operation Advance in Cranbourne. The trio was arrested after a high-speed pursuit and will face court.
