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.
Tag Peninsula Local
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
