THE lineup for February’s Frankston Waterfront Festival has been unveiled. Australian band Hockey Dad will headline the two-day festival. They are joined on the lineup by Sunshine and Disco Faith Choir, John Course, The Gnomes, Cool Out Sun, Sunday Lemonade, Ruby Mae, DJ Cooper Smith, Sundance, and more. Zach Stephenson and Billy Fleming formed Hockey Dad in 2013. They have gone on to tour Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Canada, the USA, and the UK. They are touring with their fourth album, titled Rebuild Repeat. In addition to the live music, the Waterfront Festival will also feature food, drinks, and family-friendly…
Author: mpnews
Compiled by Cameron McCullough A SHOCKING fatality occurred at the railway crossing over the Mornington railway line on the Somerville road near Baxter, on Friday evening last. The victim was Herbert Melville Prosser, aged 21, son of Mr. and Mrs. H Prosser, of Frankston. Deceased was in the employ of Messrs. Sherlock & Hay, timber merchants, and at the time of the accident was returning to Frankston with an empty motor lorry. He was attempting to cross the line at the point referred to when the steam train from Mornington crashed into him. When picked up the unfortunate young man…
A NEW exhibition, Unfolding, is on display at the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery, showcasing First Nations works on paper. The exhibition recognises the significance of paper as a material which demonstrates a particular kind of strength and permanence. Through prints, drawings, and paintings, First Nations artists have used paper to express their identities, connection to Country, history, language and community. The exhibition was curated in collaboration with Gulumerridjin (Larrakia), Wardaman, and Karra Jarri artist and curator Jenna (Mayilema) Lee and features over 100 works by more than 80 artists. Some of the prominent artists include Queenie McKenzie, Gloria Petyarre, Robert…
THE Western Port Community Support Christmas Giving program helped provide relief to many local families this December thanks to the efforts of volunteers and the generosity of the community. The centre distributed 350 food hampers and toys to over 400 children from the local community on 17 and 18 December at their centre in Hastings. Demand for community support has risen in recent years, with many families struggling due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and rising rental prices. Western Port Community Service has seen a disturbing rise in the number of families and individuals needing urgent assistance as the largest…
THERE are few milestones more auspicious than that of a centenary, and the celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Recruit School was no exception. Held on 11 December 2025, the Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond, AO, RAN hosted an official reception and Ceremonial Sunset, honouring 100 years of Recruit School shaping Navy’s future. The RAN Recruit School was opened in 1925 at HMAS Cerberus, continuing the work of the ‘Boys’ Training Ship’ HMAS Tingira, where recruits had been trained since 1912. RAN Recruit School Commanding officer, Commander Ben McGrath, addressed the gathered guests.…
The annual arrival of the jet ski nuisance We live in Safety Beach – have done for 15 years, and every summer the visiting tourists are getting worse. They leave piles of litter on the beach, are rude to the locals, and park cars on footpaths near Martha Cove Marina. But my main point is that I think someone is going to get killed by a jet ski. First of all, I would ask why they are banned in Mt Martha but allowed in Safety Beach. I will let you make up your own mind there. With the jet skis…
THE Mornington Peninsula Shire will consider a proposal to enter into new nine-year lease agreements with 17 community tennis clubs following months of unresolved issues over potential rent increases. The proposed leases would apply to tennis clubs on council owned or managed land including Balnarring, Boneo, Crib Point, Dromana, Flinders, Hastings, Main Ridge, Mount Eliza, Mount Martha, Red Hill, Rosebud, Rye, Shoreham, Somers, Somerville, Tyabb, and Sorrento. Councillors will vote on the proposal during its meeting on 16 December. The move follows previous council action in July last year to introduce new leases. However, concerns from tennis clubs over consultation…
MCCLELLAND has announced Michael Sibel as the winner of the inaugural Maquette: Sculpture Award for his work Two Parts (2025), a patinated bronze sculpture measuring 40 x 35 x 35 cm. This new $20,000 acquisitive award, generously supported by celebrated Australian artist Rick Amor, honours sculptural skill and expression and will see the winning work enter the McClelland collection. Chosen from an impressive pool of 252 entries and 62 finalists, Two Parts captivated the 2025 judge, artist John Meade with its clarity, conceptual depth and refined execution. “Michael Sibel’s patinated bronze maquette, Two Parts, was a clear standout for me…
STUDENTS at Moorooduc Primary School held their annual Moorooduc Market on 3 December and raised approximately $2000 for charity. The Grade 5/6 students worked alongside Grade 3/4 and designed, refined, marketed and produced a wide range of items, including key rings, snow globes, and tree decorations. The students confidently interacted with customers and were able to enjoy the experience of selling the products they had produced. The school said they were incredibly proud of the students’ hard work, teamwork, and entrepreneurial spirit. The money raised went towards Milly’s Search, Trap and Reunite, a charity which helps reunite lost dogs with…
A PEARCEDALE company which illegally dumped 37,000 litres of drilling sludge has been hit with a $10,000 fine. A statement from the Environment Protection Authority Victoria read that the drilling sludge was dumped near Ovens River in August. “EPA Victoria officers tracked down the offenders after receiving reports of a truck dumping sludge near Wangaratta, when they spotted the suspect vehicle on the road and watched while it dumped a load at a site on Oxley Flats Road,” the EPA said. Ausconnect Underground Services Pty Ltd was fined $10,176 for dumping industrial waste at a premises that was not licensed…
ON Boxing Day, a crew of nine from Mornington Yacht Club will set sail in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race aboard the Ginan. This will mark the first Sydney to Hobart for the boat, which is co-owned by experienced yachtsmen Cam McKenzie and Nigel Jones. The crew is predominantly local to the peninsula and consists of Marc Jukes, Greg Patten, Tim Bilham, Will McKenzie, David Kneed, James Jackson, and Ruben Gustafson. For the crew, the race is not only a sporting challenge but a chance to showcase multiple generations united by long-standing friendships and a shared love for sailing.…
THE Peninsula Aero Club has held its annual toy run with over 800 toys donated by the local community in support of families in challenging circumstances at Christmas. The gifts will be supplied to Food for All and Western Port Community Support group who will distribute them. The day was fun all around with the Holden Enthusiasts Club and the Antique Aeroplane Association for supporting the day. Live music was donated by Jon Burstow and the Catalina Cruisers Band, while visitors enjoyed a free sausage sizzle. A band of PAC members and volunteers ensured the day was enjoyed by all.…
Compiled by Cameron McCullough SIR, In a recent issue of your paper appeared a paragraph stating that “Mr. Williams of the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission had attended the Frankston Progress Association meeting with regard to the discoloration of the water, and a remedy was promised.” Lucky Frankston to have water to growl at – we’ve got none at all – and luckier still are the ratepayers of Frankston who have got real live representatives to stand up for them. Ella Wheeler Wilcox once wrote: “To sit in silence when we should protest makes cowards out of men.” But…
AS HOLIDAY-goers head to the Mornington Peninsula this summer, fire authorities are urging both locals and visitors to stay alert to heightened fire risks across the region. The peninsula is vulnerable during periods of hot, dry weather due to many popular beaches, campgrounds, and parks being close to bushland, reserves, and open grass areas. Although parts of Victoria have experienced above average rainfall recently, the bureau is forecasting hotter and drier conditions heading into late December and January 2026. Fire authorities warn that these conditions can quickly dry out vegetation, increasing the risk of dangerous grass and bushfires. CFA Chief…
A SURVEY conducted by Peninsula Community Legal Centre has found that more than one-in-three people are facing hidden legal problems, including unpaid fines and debts. The Peninsula Community Legal Centre’s mobile legal office, the Street Law Coffee Van, made 136 visits across Melbourne’s south-east between February 2024 and August 2025. It conducted 3799 “legal health checks” during that time, finding that 36 percent of clients had a legal issue that needed addressing. PCLC CEO Jackie Galloway said that a majority of the identified issues related to housing insecurity and cost of living stress. She said “this data confirms what we…
SOUTHERN Peninsula Community Support (SPCS) and Capel Sound Community Hub (CSCH) have been awarded grants to tackle food insecurity, totalling $50,000 – just in time to spread some Christmas cheer for families in need. The funding, provided through Chobani Australia’s The Big Difference program, will help grassroots organisations expand services, innovate programs, and strengthen community resilience. SPCS received $30,000 to upgrade its pantry and kitchen, supporting more than 2000 local families. CEO Jeremy Maxwell said each month they provide food and material aid to over 1000 people. “Every week, our case workers work with those at risk of homelessness, and…
AFTER a three-year break, the much-loved Mt Eliza Village Christmas Tree has returned to the Village Lawn, thanks to the efforts of Cr Stephen Batty, the Mt Eliza Lions Club, and generous funding support from the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council and the Australian Lions Foundation. The tree was officially welcomed back on Saturday 6 December when Lions President Ian Davey, Councillor Batty and Mt Eliza Chamber President Sue Manson joined fellow Lions members for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the start of the 2025 festive season in Mt Eliza. With the decorations now complete, village traders are adding their own…
Pothole of the Week Time to have a conversation about councillor election funding Debates about political donations often focus on state and federal elections. A recent vote at our local council, however, is a reminder that questions of democratic trust frequently arise at the level closest to home. A councillor proposed a motion seeking tighter donation rules for local government (Council rejects push for stricter donation rules, The News 9/12/25). It was not framed as an accusation or a challenge to colleagues’ integrity, but as an opportunity to reflect on whether existing arrangements continue to support public confidence. The council…
Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate Troy Cunneen. The 35-year-old man is wanted on five warrants for burglary, theft of motor vehicle, theft, and contravening bail and a court order. Police would also like to speak to Cunneen in relation to a police car ramming in Mornington on 12 December. Cunneen is described as Caucasian in appearance, approximately 178cm tall, with a medium build and short red hair. He is known to frequent the Mornington Peninsula area. Investigators have released an image of Cunneen in the hope that someone may be able to provide information on his…
Across Victoria, the festive season brings families and friends together for long lunches, shared dinners, and much-anticipated celebrations. For many households, pets are naturally included in these gatherings and often hope for a taste of the festivities themselves. Many dogs are inclined to linger by the table in search of a tasty treat from your plate. However, a safe and engaging distraction, such as treat balls or suitable raw bones, can keep them occupied and make mealtimes smoother and safer for everyone. It is essential, however, to avoid offering cooked bones as they can splinter easily and potentially require urgent…
ONE of the peninsula’s favourite walking and riding trails is set for a refresh, with locals being asked to help shape the upgrades. The Red Hill to Merricks trail will soon receive new directional and interpretive signage thanks to funding from the Victorian Government’s Tiny Towns Grant. The project aims to make the trail easier to navigate while providing more information about local stories, cultural connections, and natural beauty. The council is asking for community input before beginning design work. The trail is 6.5kms and accessible from the picnic area at Red Hill Station Reserve or the Merricks Red Hill…
THE mental health professionals at Peninsula Health were recognised for their efforts at the 2025 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards. Peninsula Health was named the winner in the “Excellence in Mental Health and Wellbeing” category. The health provider’s elimination of seclusion and mechanical restraints in its inpatient services was a key reason behind its award win. Peninsula Health’s clinical director of mental health and wellbeing, Adjunct A/Prof Kerryn Rubin, said Peninsula Health is the only health provider in the state which has completely eliminated the use of seclusion. “While it was once seen as a way to keep people safe, seclusion…
A SWATHE of accessibility measures were installed at Frankston Beach last week. Last Friday, 5 December, 70 metres of beach matting extending to the water’s edge was put into place. Complimentary beach wheelchairs and equipment, daybeds, and cabanas were also installed. Trained staff and volunteers have also been placed onsite for the summer. The pilot program, which is set to cost around $200,000, has been supported by multiple local donors. Accessible Beaches Australia has spearheaded the project – the proposal was inspired by a similar accessible beach in Nice, France. Accessible Beaches Australia founder Shane Hryhorec said if successful, the…
MORNINGTON’S Alexandra Park Pavilion redevelopment has taken home a prestigious state accolade from AFL Victoria. The $10.5 million upgrade was made possible thanks to the Mornington Peninsula Shire, community groups, state and federal governments and AFL Victoria. The new-look pavilion, which opened late last year, had matches return on ground this season, marking a turning point for one of the region’s busiest sporting precincts. In recognition of its success, the project was announced as the winner of the 2025 AFL Victoria Best Community Football Facilities Project Award on 3 December. AFL Victoria venue and government partnerships manager Jessie Doull said…
RYE’s premier sporting event, the Rye Gift will be held at R.J.Rowley Reserve, Melbourne Road, Rye on Saturday 10 January 2026. Now in its 50th year, the event is rated as the third highest ranked event for professional running on the Victorian Athletics League calendar. Foremost in success is the Pasquali family, with Wally Pasquali winning the men’s 120m Rye Gift in 1995. Then the sensational and record breaking triple winner Anna Pasquali (Nee Deery) won the Women’s 120m Rye Gift in 2003, 2004 and 2005. 2023 saw daughter Bella Pasquali win the Women’s 120M Rye Gift as a 16…
THE $2.1 million redeveloped Frankston Arts Centre forecourt was officially opened last week. The forecourt now features upgraded pathways and ramps, separate areas for cars and pedestrians with marked drop-off and pick-up zones, enhanced lighting, additional seating, a new water feature, and larger street-facing signage. Alongside the new forecourt, the mezzanine gallery of the dress circle was also renamed the “Gale Dudeck Lounge” last month. Gail Dudeck was among the leading voices in the campaign to build the Frankston Arts Centre – her granddaughter Amy Dudeck said “seeing the forecourt transformed alongside the dedication of the Gail Dudeck Lounge is…
Compiled by Cameron McCullough AT a general meeting of members of the Mornington Cricket Club on Tuesday last, it was decided to disband the club; also to write to the secretary of the N.P.C.A., expressing their regret at having to cancel all matches in which the club is engaged for the season. The material, including the lawn mower, hose, etc., are to be offered to the Mornington Imperial Club, providing they agree to a reasonable figure. Mr. W. S. Cook, president of the club for over 20 years, expressed his regret at the disbandment, but hoped it would not hinder…
AUSTRALIA’S “Queen of Carols,” Silvie Paladino, will bring Christmas joy and grace the stage at Cruden Farm on Saturday the 13 December. Silvie will perform more than two hours of beloved Christmas carols and festive favourites, delivered with the warmth and brilliance that have made her one of Australia’s most beloved musical theatre stars. Dame Elisabeth Murdoch’s beautiful gift to her community, Cruden Farm, is the perfect setting for this Christmas spectacular. Her enduring love for the natural world and lifelong commitment to creating spaces where people can gather and feel connected is her legacy and exemplified no better than…
Police are investigating the death of a man in Hastings yesterday. Emergency services were called to a Curlew Court home just before 5pm.A 42-year-old Hastings man was located deceased inside the property. The exact circumstances surrounding the man’s death are yet to be established. Homicide Squad detectives have attended the scene to provide assistance, at this stage. The investigation remains ongoing, and a postmortem will be conducted this morning. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au https://www.police.vic.gov.au/police-investigate-hastings-death
BUOYED by their results in May’s federal election, Independents for Mornington Peninsula, the community group that backed Ben Smith’s federal campaign, has formally launched its search for independent candidates for the 2026 Victorian state election. Chair Phillip Riley said the group’s focus is on finding local leaders with integrity, who will fight for long-neglected services on the peninsula. “For decades, the Mornington Peninsula has been treated as an afterthought by the major parties. Being in a safe seat means we are taken for granted” said Riley. “Our roads, hospitals, community services and public transport are woefully underfunded. Residents see it…