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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
