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?
Tag Somerville Times
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.
Police Investigate Arson in Hastings
Mornington Peninsula detectives are investigating an arson attack in Hastings after two males set fire to a ute at a Frankston-Flinders Road service station.
Highlights from Hastings Emergency Services Open Day
The Emergency Services Open Day at Hastings foreshore drew thousands on 22 March 2025, featuring police, SES, CFA, Coastguard, stunt riders, and community safety initiatives.
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.
Man Arrested Following Alleged Sexual Assault on Dandenong Bus
A 25-year-old Springvale man has been arrested following an alleged sexual assault on a Route 811 bus in Dandenong. Victoria Police continues to investigate.
Baxter Men’s Shed Reopens After Two-Year Rebuild Following Fire
The Baxter Men's Shed celebrates its grand reopening after a two-year rebuild following a fire, reaffirming its vital role in community connection and support.
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.
$50 Million Road Upgrade Pledge in Frankston ‘Not What It Seems’, Says Nathan Conroy
Liberal Dunkley candidate Nathan Conroy has criticised the federal government’s $50 million road upgrade pledge for Frankston, claiming only $3 million is actually committed.
Police Investigate Sexual Assault on Bus in Dandenong
Victoria Police are investigating a sexual assault on a Route 811 bus in Dandenong on 17 February. Authorities have released images of a suspect and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Somerville Subdues Seaford Tigers
Somerville Cricket Club secured a commanding victory over Seaford Tigers in the final round of the MPCA season, finishing 5th on the ladder. Read the full match report.
Frankston Public Surgical Centre Reducing Surgery Wait Times in Victoria
The Frankston Public Surgical Centre is playing a key role in Victoria’s efforts to reduce surgery wait times, with urgent procedures now delivered faster than anywhere else in Australia.
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.
Flinders Federal Election Poll: Have Your Say
If a snap federal election were held tomorrow, who would you vote for in the Flinders electorate? Share your opinion in our latest STPL News poll.
Free Green Waste Weekend Extended for Mornington Peninsula Shire Residents
Mornington Peninsula Shire extends the No Charge Green Waste Weekend from March 28-30, 2025, allowing residents to dispose of green waste for free.
Federal Election: Tensions Rise in Flinders Campaign—Despite No Election Date Yet
The race for the federal seat of Flinders is heating up, with Zoe McKenzie, Ben Smith, and Sarah Race battling for votes—despite no election date yet. Campaign spending, advertising controversies, and political clashes are shaping the contest.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Adjusts Budget Amid McCrae Landslip Costs
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has restructured its budget to absorb the costs of the McCrae landslip, allocating $1.2 million for emergency management and removing the last COVID-19 business assistance package.
Secret Stash of Stolen Goods and Weapons Uncovered in Seaford Business
Victoria Police have uncovered a hidden stash of stolen goods, drugs, and weapons behind a secret door in a Seaford business. A 53-year-old man has been charged and will face Frankston Magistrates’ Court in April.
Kafkaesque Bureaucracy Leaves Hazardous Trees Dangling Over Mornington Peninsula Roads
Mornington Peninsula residents warn of dangerous overhanging trees on Nepean Highway, with fears they could collapse onto traffic. Despite reports to government officials, no action has been taken.
Western Port Craft Expo Returns to Hastings This April
Head down to the Western Port Craft Expo on April 12, 2025! Discover local artisans, hands-on workshops, and fun activities for all ages at Hastings Community Hub.
Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association Women’s Grand Final
On Sunday, March 9th, the Somerville Women’s team played against Balnarring at The Nest in front of a massive crowd. Somerville earned the advantage of a home final by finishing second on the ladder, with Balnarring ending 4th after the…
Man Charged Following Dromana Hit-and-Run Incident
Dromana, VIC – A 36-year-old Dromana man has been charged following an alleged hit-and-run incident that occurred on Sunday night in Dromana. At approximately 9:30 pm on 9 March 2025, a 48-year-old woman from Craigieburn and her dog were crossing…
Honesty Box Bread Shut Down in Mount Martha Following Resident Complaint
A beloved honesty box bread system in Mount Martha has been shut down after a resident’s complaint, with council regulations requiring a costly permit. Locals express frustration over the decision.
Local Councils Join Forces to Make Beaches Safer
Mornington Peninsula and neighbouring councils have launched a new Water Safety Framework to tackle rising drowning rates. Learn how the Beachsafe app and patrolled beaches can help keep swimmers safe.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Boosts Road Maintenance Budget for 2025
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has increased its road maintenance budget for 2025, with 35 roads set for renewal under the Roads to Recovery project. Community feedback will shape future improvements.
Police Arrest 35 in A Single Day During Frankston Crackdown
Police arrested 35 people in a large-scale operation targeting crime, road safety, and water safety in Frankston. Offenders were caught for firearms, burglary, and traffic offences.
Mark Stoermer Named New CEO of Mornington Peninsula Shire
As STPL News predicted, the new CEO has prior experience with a south-eastern council and has already worked with some of the current councillors and our sources have delivered! Mornington Peninsula Shire has officially named Mark Stoermer as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following a Special Council Meeting today.
Council Skinks Ahead with Federal Oversight for Dromana Development
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has thrown its support behind a federally recommended controlled action to oversee a 250-home development in Dromana.
Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee Festival Celebrates First Peoples’ Culture
The Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee festival saw over 2,000 people gather at Emu Plains Reserve to celebrate First Peoples’ culture with performances, workshops, and community activities.
Brad Cox Brings His National Tour to Frankston’s Pier Bandroom
Award-winning country artist Brad Cox is bringing his national tour to Frankston’s Pier Bandroom on 15 March 2025. Fresh off multiple Golden Guitar wins and a new single ‘I’m a Boxer’ dropping 12 March, Cox is set to deliver an unforgettable live show. Read to find out more.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Set to Announce New CEO This Week!
Mornington Peninsula Shire is poised to announce its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) later this week, pending the completion of final background checks. Several sources have indicated that the selected candidate has prior experience with a south-eastern council and he has previously collaborated with some current councillors.
Crime Concerns Grow as McKenzie Engages, While Mercurio Stays on the Defensive
As crime concerns rise across the Mornington Peninsula, Federal MP Zoe McKenzie and her state counterparts are actively engaging with the community, listening to their frustrations, and pushing for immediate action. Meanwhile, State MP Paul Mercurio has faced growing criticism for his lack of visibility on the issue, with many residents questioning his leadership and commitment to real solutions.
Opening Dialog with Local Police Over Coffee in Somerville
Hastings Police and Neighbourhood Watch hosted 'Coffee with a Cop' in Somerville, fostering open discussions with the community. Learn about the event and the upcoming Emergency Services Open Day at Hastings Foreshore.
Frankston Man Charged After Alleged Assaults and Attempted Carjackings
A 24-year-old man has been charged following multiple alleged assaults and attempted carjackings in Frankston. Police urge witnesses to come forward.
Rosebud Hospital A Key Election Issue in Flinders
Calls for a fully functioning Rosebud Hospital are growing ahead of a Sunday protest, with concerns that Frankston Hospital is too far for southern Mornington Peninsula residents.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Releases Draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan for Public Consultation
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has released its draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan 2024-2029, focusing on improving wastewater system performance and reducing environmental risks. Public consultation is open until 31st March 2025.
McCrae Landslide: Evacuated Residents Left Without Financial Aid as Government Remains Silent
Over a month after the McCrae landslide, evacuated residents are still without financial assistance from the Victorian government. As looting continues, displaced families demand urgent action.
Coffee with a Cop: Meet Your Local Police Over a Cuppa in Somerville
Join Victoria Police for Coffee with a Cop on Saturday, 1st March 2025, at Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse, Somerville. A great opportunity to discuss community issues, meet local officers, and connect—especially for those who use Auslan.
930 Illegal Knives Seized from Dandenong Business Linked to Youth Offenders
Victoria Police have seized 930 prohibited weapons from a Dandenong South business allegedly linked to youth offenders. A Toorak man faces charges as authorities crack down on illegal knife distribution across Victoria.
Poll Reveals Strong Support for Scrapping “Acknowledgement of Country” at Council Meetings
A Facebook poll by former Mornington Peninsula Mayor Steve Holland reveals 76% support for removing the Acknowledgement of Country from council meetings. Councillors respond, with unverified claims suggesting a motion may already be in the works.
Homeowners at Risk as Council Cracks Down on $15M in Unpaid Rates
The Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is considering selling homes to recover $15M in unpaid rates. Residents and Ratepayer Groups fear the policy could push struggling families into financial ruin.
Frankston High School Parents Demand Answers Over Teacher Absences
Parents at Frankston High School are demanding accountability after ongoing teacher absences forced Year 11 students to teach themselves in vital VCE subjects.
Community Input Sought for Morce Avenue Sorrento Car Park Expansion
The Mornington Peninsula Shire is seeking public input on four proposed designs to expand the Morce Avenue car park in Sorrento.
Man Charged Over Seaford Hit-and-Run Cyclist Collision in Seaford
A 20-year-old Cranbourne North man has been charged following an alleged hit-and-run in Seaford, leaving a 53-year-old cyclist injured. The accused is set to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court in April.
Crime Protest Intensifies as Organiser Responds to Paul Mercurio’s Statement
Residents of Hastings, Somerville, and Frankston South protest outside Paul Mercurio MP’s office, demanding stronger action on rising crime. Protest organiser Rowan May criticises Mercurio’s response, citing inaction and lack of engagement.
Two Men Arrested After Stealing Passenger Bus in Seaford
Two men have been charged after allegedly breaking into a Seaford depot and stealing a decommissioned passenger bus. Both will face court in March.
