The silent scourge By Maureen Donelly* I DIDN’T believe it. When Kim* told me her partner had long put her down, always criticised her – often trying to draw their children into it, had controlled their social life and their finances and constantly spied on her through her phone and emails, I was stunned. On the face of it, they were an ordinary couple, though in hindsight I had noticed Kim quite often made excuses not to join get togethers, and I remember some rather cringe-worthy public displays of affection by her partner. Perhaps I should have recognised these signs of…
Author: mpnews
Have you ever wondered what happens to your drink cans, bottles and cartons after you return them for a 10-cent refund through Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS Vic)? With this week being National Recycling Week (10–16 November), CDS Vic shares what happens next, and how every returned container helps power Victoria’s circular economy. This year’s theme, Join the Cycle, perfectly aligns with the mission of CDS Vic: keeping eligible drink containers in the recycling loop so they can be remade into new products again and again. “National Recycling Week is a timely reminder of our shared commitment to a more…
FROM barefoot to all-abilities bowls, players of all ages can now enjoy a more comfortable roll at the Somerville Bowling Club thanks to shelter upgrades at their facility, backed by the state government. Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence and Member for Hastings Paul Mercurio opened the club’s upgraded facilities last Thursday (6 November); made possible by a $80,000 grant from the Community Sport and Recreation Projects Initiative. The shelter upgrades cover the walkway between the club’s two competition greens and provides protection from the elements, giving bowlers a place to escape the sun’s rays or rain in between ends…
MORNINGTON golfers are swinging into action this month to raise vital funds for seriously ill children as part of X-Golf’s nationwide Starlight Swing campaign. As of this week, X-Golf Mornington has already helped raise more than $2000 towards the initiative, which runs throughout the month of November in support of the Starlight Children’s Foundation. For the first time, X-Golf has launched a specially designed Starlight Swing golf course to celebrate the campaign – a reimagined version of the beloved Pirates Island Golf Course, complete with vibrant Starlight-themed visuals. The nine-hole course, created by Korean manufacturers in partnership with the X-Golf…
WITH the new federal subsidy on home batteries, state rebates on solar panels and the ever-increasing costs of electricity bills, many people are concerned about when is the right time for them to invest in home renewable energy and storage. Following their popular event in Mornington last month, Repower Mornington Peninsula is hosting a repeat performance of “Solar And Batteries – Is Now The Time?” at the Rye Civic Hall on Saturday 15 November at 3pm. The event features a Solar and Batteries presentation by an independent expert from the Yarra Energy Foundation and a demonstration of the ‘Repower and…
Compiled by Cameron McCullough AFTER addressing six other meetings during the day, Mr. Bruce arrived at Frankston at 9 o’clock and received a demonstrative welcome from a crowded audience which packed the main hall and gallery of the Palais. As he entered the hall, accompanied by Mrs. Bruce, the Prime Minister was greeted with cheer after cheer. The president of the Shire (Cr. F. H. Wells) presided, and he was supported on the stage by Mrs. Lambie (president of the Frankston branch of the A.W.N.L.), Cr. J. L. Pratt (president of the Returned Soldiers’ Association), Mr. F. S. Bell (president,…
With a dangerous fire season on the horizon, RSPCA Victoria and the CFA are calling for locals to not to forget their pets in their bushfire survival plans. Emergency planning is part of life in Victoria, and that includes thinking about how to keep animals safe when conditions turn. Pet owners are encouraged to include an emergency kit with food, water, bedding, any medication, and copies of vaccination or identification records as part of their plans. Make sure their microchip and collar details are up to date so it is easier to get reunited if you become separated in an…
THE Light Up Autism Foundation has announced the launch of its Positive Support Program, a program aimed to help create brighter futures for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the mainstream schooling system. Founded in 2012 by the late Bianca Appleford OAM, the foundation was born from Bianca’s determination to create change after witnessing firsthand how the education system was not meeting the needs of her autistic child. Bianca’s passion and advocacy sparked a movement toward inclusion, understanding, and practical support for children on the autism spectrum. The Light Up Autism Foundation is dedicated to empowering children with autism…
WESTERN Port and the Southern Peninsula waters will soon be safer under the protection of state-of-the-art rescue vessels thanks to new funding from the state government. Emergency Services Minister Vicki Ward visited the Coast Guard’s Hastings headquarters last week to announce the investment, which will deliver new rescue boats to the Coast Guard Western Port and the Southern Peninsula Rescue Squad by the middle of 2027. The vessels are designed to handle both nearshore and offshore emergencies, capable of operating up to 60 nautical miles from land. They’ll come equipped with advanced technology including thermal imaging systems, remote-controlled rescue devices,…
A disrespectful tune As a musician, I know when something’s out of tune — and this proposed Arthurs Seat expansion hits all the wrong notes. Turning a State Park into a playground of luge rides, a 28 metre high tower and other theme park stuff and isn’t harmony, it’s noise. Arthurs Seat has its own natural rhythm — the rustle of the trees, the calls of the birds, the quiet stillness that locals and visitors come to hear. This development drowns out that song. It shows little respect for the land, the wildlife, or the community that treasures it. We…
The Mornington Yacht Club sailing season is well underway with racing on Tuesday afternoons, Thursday Twilight, Saturday Championships and Aggregate races as well as Off The Beach racing on a Sunday.Last Thursday’s Twilight race #4 was difficult with no breeze at the start and a stiff easterly to finish. The winner of the race was Daddy Cool skippered by Dave Eickmeyer with an elapsed time of 00:51:26. First published in the Mornington News – 11 November 2025
Dr James Louis Edgeworth Somers THE father of the three soldiers was a larger than life character in Mornington and the wider peninsula community for many years. In The Bush – A story of the Mornington Bush Nursing Hospital by Hilary Abeyaratne, we are given an insight into his contribution: “Pioneer practitioner” was the term used by The Peninsula Post to describe Dr J L Edgworth Somers when he was, on account of his long and meritorious service in the area, given the honour of addressing the gathering at the opening of the hospital in 1937. In practice on the…
A FRANKSTON author is shining a light on neurodiversity and how to support children with additional learning needs with a new book series. Anne Vize has published the Inclusive Education book series throughout this year. Vize says the series was written “to provide practical insights and straight forward information on autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and communication needs. They focus on what we know works, and importantly they also dispel myths and misunderstandings which can cloud judgement and make it harder for children to learn and thrive.” Vize says that writing the series has been “a wonderful opportunity to learn about…
BEACH matting for wheelchairs will soon be rolled out across Frankston Beach as part of a push to make the foreshore the most accessible in the country. The pilot program is being undertaken by Accessible Beaches Australia and Frankston Council. Measures set to be taken at Frankston Beach by summer 2026 include the installation of accessible beach matting, beach wheelchairs, bookable day beds, designated drop-off zones, and the addition of staff to help people in and out of the water.Accessible Beaches Australia founder Shane Hryhorec said he hopes that Frankston will be the first beach of many to adopt the…
SOUTHERN Peninsula Food for All is seeking support for its 2025 Christmas appeal. Now in its 34th year the volunteer run group is calling on residents to generously donate food items and toys to ensure local families in need can enjoy a festive season of dignity and hope. Founded in 1991, the charity has grown from its roots following poverty forums organised by the then Shire of Flinders and today distributes weekly food parcels as well as annual Christmas hampers and children’s toys. Food is collected from bins marked “FOOD FOR ALL” in local supermarkets. Christmas food items together with…
A 55-acre estate in Boneo described as Australia’s largest privately owned garden and wildlife sanctuary has hit the market with a price guide of $8m- $8.8m. Azure on Panorama, formerly known as Panorama Garden Estate, sits at 130 Hyslops Rd in Boneo, and features 22 themed gardens, a boutique day spa, a wildlife refuge, and a five-bedroom residence surrounded by coastal views. The sanctuary, which has a two-kilometre, 2.5-metre electrified fence, provides a haven for albino kangaroos, wallabies, emus and peacocks. Owned and developed over three decades by Nick Smith and Annemaree Van Rooy, the property has been a lifelong…
THREE new waste trucks featuring artwork by local artists Jack and Josh were unveiled at Our Lady of Fatima Primary School in Rosebud last week. Each of the three trucks features a unique design that celebrates the peninsula and its beauty. Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh, fellow councillors, the artists, and excited students attended the unveiling. The event was a chance to celebrate local art, allow children to meet the truck drivers, and remind young people of the importance of recycling and caring for the environment. The students were treated to a live demonstration by the truck drivers, who showed how…
We support the Arthurs Seat Eagle upgrade AS a long-time holiday maker and family resident of the Mornington Peninsula, I am writing in strong support of the proposed Arthurs Seat Eagle (ASE) 2026 Upgrade Plan. As someone who values both environmental protection and responsible tourism, I believe this project successfully integrates economic growth with sustainable design and community benefit. The ASE team has demonstrated a clear commitment to environmental stewardship throughout the engagement process. The integration of the new experience centre, luge, and observation tower has been thoughtfully designed to complement the natural landscape and encourage environmental appreciation. Importantly, the…
Compiled by Cameron McCullough AN outstanding feature of the annual Palais ball, held last Friday evening, was the magnificent decorations. Never before had such an elaborate decorative scheme been attempted in Frankston, and the effort speaks volumes for the enterprise and enthusiasm of the Palais management. From the centre of the ceiling to the four walls of the building were ropes of pink flowers, joined up with lattice work, bearing rose leaves, red roses and poppies. The effect was very beautiful, and won the admiration of all beholders. The floor had been specially prepared for dancing, and proved a delight…
A MORNINGTON Peninsula tradesman has been celebrated for his remarkable bravery after saving a woman with a disability from her burning home on New Year’s Day. When an illegal firework ignited a blaze in a Tootgarook house just after midnight, bystander Jon Croft sprang into action. Without hesitation, he smashed through a bedroom window and pulled wheelchair user Nikki Gill to safety – mere moments before flames consumed the room. Croft was officially recognised for his heroism on 25 October, receiving the CFA Citizen’s Commendation for Bravery during a ceremony in Rye. The award honours members of the public who…
EXPERIENCE the wonder of Roy Orbison in this brilliant theatrical portrayal of the man, his music, his voice, and his life. Only the Lonely…Crying…You Got It…Penny Arcade…Working for the Man…Pretty Woman..so many more…Mark Shelley is simply brilliant in his characterisation of Roy. He not only has the vocal range and tone to honour his songs, he also has the sensitivity and artistic ability to ‘be’ Roy. His seven piece live band are the finest of Australia’s musicians.“I am both a massive fan and admirer of Roy’s immense talent, singing and song writing ability. There has been no one like him…
By Barry Irving After visiting family in New Zealand, local woodworker Dennis Conner returned home inspired by a simple but meaningful idea — handcrafted wooden tulips sold to raise funds for Parkinson’s disease. In New Zealand, craftsmen have created more than 5,500 wooden tulips over the past five years to support the cause. Wanting to bring the initiative to Australia, Dennis approached the Fight Parkinson’s group and suggested a local fundraising effort. Members of the Woodworkers of the Southern Peninsula embraced the idea, turning, sanding, and painting 700 tulips as a club project. The finished tulips were recently presented to…
If you love beautiful gardens, live music and talking about food, then be in Somers on Sunday 9 November. The Somers Open Garden Day has it all.Tour five magnificent private gardens in Somers, not usually open to the public. Enjoy creative coastal and native gardens; be inspired by bountiful vegetable and flower gardens. Start your garden tour at Green Hedges, 71 Tasman Road, Somers, for maps and entry bands. Purchase entry tickets on the day at Green Hedges or book online. Gardens open from 9.30am to 1pm.Then come along to Coolart Wetlands & Homestead for a free live concert at…
By Barry IrvingRye Sports and Social Club held its annual Sports Person of the Year awards at the Rye Hotel on Wednesday, 22 October. Guests included club sponsor Southern Peninsula Community Bank Bendigo Bank, led by board chairman Vin Cheers and accompanied by Paul Zaltsberg and Renae Dunston. The Mornington Peninsula Shire was represented by Andrea Allen and Cam Williams, while Rye RSL was represented by Bruce White and Andrew Laing. Life members, nominees, club delegates, and family also attended. MC for the evening was Gary Sanford, with nominees interviewed by Fiona Shepheard-Sanford and Vicki O’Sullivan.Nominees for the awards were:…
NESTLED among the rolling hills and towering gums, the Hill & Ridge Community Market is fast becoming a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. Held on the first Saturday of each month at the Red Hill Recreation Reserve, the market brings together a variety of stallholders showcasing the very best of the Mornington Peninsula and beyond.In 2024, the Red Hill Agricultural & Horticultural Society – proud custodians of the Red Hill Show since 1922 – embraced the opportunity to run the monthly market, ensuring it continues to thrive as a celebration of community, creativity and country life.From artisan breads…
Compiled by Cameron McCulloughTHE proposal of the Shire Council to dispose of its present offices in Bay street and erect spacious new buildings on the Davey street site is agitating the minds of a section of the ratepayers who, not quite conversant with all the facts, have visions of additional loan burdens staring them in the face.It is certainly a good sign to see the ratepayers on the alert to protect their own interests by applying the searchlight of public inquiry to all undertakings likely to involve them in financial responsibility.In the past they have been too docile, or perhaps,…
SOUTHERN Peninsula Rescue Squad (SPRS) Victoria has received national recognition for its exceptional dedication to saving lives and rescue missions for nearly six decades.The volunteer team was awarded a commendation by the Australian National Search and Rescue Council on 16 October during a ceremony in Brisbane in recognition of its 58 years of dedicated service. It was also recognised by National Search and Rescue Council.The squad’s secretary Denis Baguley and president Kent Quigley accepted the award on behalf of the SPRS, saying the honour reflected the hard work and sacrifice of every team member. “This is a fantastic recognition for…
TOOTGAROOK Primary School celebrated a major milestone last week, marking 75 years of educating and inspiring young minds in the community.Families, past students, staff, and community members came together for an afternoon of fun, nostalgia, and entertainment on 24 October. The festivities included performances by foundation and year one students, past and present students, and the school band. There were also interviews with former staff and students offering a fascinating glimpse into the school’s rich history.A time capsule opening revealed items from decades past while a photo gallery displayed snapshots of the school’s journey over the years. Another highlight was…
The first Peninsula Surfriders Competition for the 2025/2026 season took place on Saturday, 25 October, at Gunnamatta, highlighting the incredible surfing talent of the Mornington Peninsula. Rye’s Lucas Hickson, recently crowned Victoria State Champion, thrilled spectators with a series of impressive manoeuvres, demonstrating the skill and precision that have earned him the state’s number one ranking. The event set a high standard for the season ahead, offering a glimpse of the exciting performances to come from local surfers. First published in the Mornington News – 28 October 2025
A PERFECT evening of sunshine, sea breezes, and community spirit set the stage for this year’s Mayoral Charity event, the Mayday Cruise, which raised a record $61,278.77 for local groups.Hosted by mayor Cr Anthony Marsh aboard the MV Queenscliff, operated by Searoad Ferries, the 18 October event welcomed over 250 guests from across the peninsula for an evening of entertainment, dining, and fundraising. They were greeted with canapés, fresh oysters, and sparkling beverages, complemented by a selection of local wines, beers, ciders, and rum.The Royal Australian Navy Band performed on the pier prior to departure, while The Baker Boys Band…