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…
Author: mpnews
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…
THE Committee for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula has announced that Phil Hayes-Brown and Ross Kilborn are the recipients of the committee’s first Annual Leadership Award. The awards were presented on 3 December at the committee’s Annual General Meeting. The head of disability support organisation Wallara, CEO Phil Hayes-Brown’s, recognition came during an important week for the disability community, coinciding with the International Day of People with Disability, which promotes awareness, understanding and acceptance. “I’m honoured by this recognition, but it belongs to the Wallara team and our partners across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula,” Hayes-Brown said. “It’s proof that inclusive…
Over 40 volunteers have spent countless hours and supplied their own materials to decorate nearly 40 tress and bollards on Main Street Mornington this Christmas. Photos: Yanni First published in the Mornington News – 9 December 2025
Tackling the cause of rubbish on our beaches There are various ways rubbish ends up on our treasured peninsula beaches. One of the most consequential – and fixable – is the contribution by individuals and groups who carelessly choose to leave their waste items behind after enjoying the natural coastal serenity. When it came to which method the shire should select for beach cleaning (mechanical raking versus by hand), they seem to have overlooked also tackling the causes. Council can’t control what washes up on our beaches that originates elsewhere in the bay and beyond. But they can implement the…
MORNINGTON’S much-loved Fishermans Jetty is officially open again, with locals and holidaymakers able to return to the popular waterfront spot following a major rebuild. The $18m state government project features new timber decking, solar-powered lighting and seating made from materials salvaged from the old structure. Safety has also been boosted, with access ladders installed along the sides. The redesigned layout now provides berthing space for up to 27 vessels. The jetty, originally built between 1880 and 1885, was closed to pedestrians in November 2020 due to advanced structural deterioration with berthing access closed in 2022 following inspections by maritime engineers. …
Compiled by Cameron McCullough IN the presence of a gathering of electors on Monday afternoon, at Dandenong, the returning officer for the Flinders electorate (Mr. W. J. Field) declared the result of the recent poll, the final figures being: Bruce, S. M: 33,173 Beardsworth, G. R. A: 19,748 Informal: 868 Majority for Bruce: 13,425 The total number of voters on the roll was 57,666, and of this number 53,789, or 93½ per cent exercised their rights. In moving a vote of thanks to the returning officer, Mr. Bruce paid a tribute to the work carried out by Mr. Field and…
Get ready to journey down the yellow brick road! PLOS Musical Productions is thrilled to announce preparations for our January 2026 season of The Wizard of Oz! The excitement is building as we prepare to bring this iconic tale to the stage, and we can’t wait to share it with you. We’re proud to introduce an incredible cast, featuring some PLOS favourites alongside a fresh face! Returning to the stage are the talented Courtney Smyth and Elise Stevens, joined by newcomer Lana Hutchinson, who will bring Dorothy to life. Courtney will embody the wickedly delightful Wicked Witch—a role she has…
A VIBRANT series of themed workshops creating gifts and Christmas decorations, has Hastings’ new Community Craft Shed doing what its founder hoped. The craft shed, next to the Hastings Primary School in Hodgins Rd, was the dream of retired Western Port Craft Expo convenor Sandra Beckett. Seeing so many Western Port crafters enjoying the expo, Beckett wanted a place where they could come during the week to sew, knit, weave, crochet, pass on their expertise, and enjoy each other’s company. The first workshop held in early November was presented by Somerville poppy maker Jenny Mann, making remembrance poppies. Sufficient red…
A MAN allegedly used a Frankston payphone to call in a hoax bomb threat to a train station on 31 October. Police say the man used a phone on Ashleigh Avenue to call Southern Cross Railway Station – he left a message saying that bombs were at the station and on trains heading towards Ballarat and Mildura. The call was allegedly made at 5.45am. In a statement, Victoria Police said they “quickly identified the call was a hoax.” “Trains were checked as a precaution and there was no disruption to services,” Victoria Police said. The man has not yet been…
MAJOR developments in Frankston will be “fast-tracked” within 16 weeks under a new council plan. From 31 January next year, Frankston Council is expected to implement guaranteed 16-week planning assessments for qualifying major developments. In a statement council says it will offer developers “enhanced pre-application guidance” and “dedicated post-permit concierge support” to expedite the approval process. Frankston mayor Kris Bolam said that the new planning initiative would encourage developers to build housing in Frankston. “The Priority Fasttrack Program sends a clear message: Frankston City is open for business. We’re giving investors confidence and bringing new development to market faster —…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Regional Tourism is celebrating a remarkable night of recognition at the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) Tourism Awards, with local operators honoured for excellence, innovation, sustainability, accessibility and leadership across the visitor economy. Leading this year’s wins is Wild Adventures Melbourne, founded by micro-business owner Nic Cooper. Demonstrating how small operators can create global-standard experiences while protecting the environment, the business took out Gold in the Lord Mayor’s Award, surpassing major Victorian tourism icons such as Melbourne Zoo and Sofitel Melbourne. Mr Cooper also secured Gold in Ecotourism, further confirming his place as a leader in responsible, nature-based…
WORKS on the Frankston railway line are progressing, with the beams for the new rail bridges in Mordialloc and Aspendale now being lifted into place and a date set for the reconnection of the line to the City Loop The state government is currently building rail bridges to replace the level crossings at McDonald Street in Mordialloc and Station Street in Aspendale as part of its bid to make the Frankston line level-crossing-free by 2029. L-shaped beams up to 31 metres long are now being positioned into place. The Mordialloc and Apsendale level crossings are set to be removed and…
THE CFA is calling on locals to lend a hand as community “citizen scientists” to help monitor grassland dryness – a key indicator of the state’s fire risk. According to the CFA, as summer approaches, grassland curing, the natural drying of grasses, becomes a major factor in fire behaviour. Curing figures are fed directly into CFA’s fire danger rating system at this time of year, meaning reliable on-ground observations are vital. Each week, the CFA blends satellite readings with reports from volunteers to produce maps showing how dry Victoria’s grasslands are. CFA remote sensing analyst Dr Danielle Wright said more…
WESTERN Port Respectful Relationships marched in solidarity among the beautiful backdrop of Hastings foreshore on Tuesday 25 November as part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign against gender-based violence. Joining the march was Paul Mercurio MP and local councillors Marsh, Stephens, Gill, Roper, and Williams, as well as Victoria Police, support services, and community, to build community awareness on the first day of the 16 Days of Activism campaign. The group is coordinated by Wallaroo Community House Good Shepherd, and is made up of local community members, and community agencies including Family Life, Westernport Community Support, Headspace, and Mornington…
A woman has lost her licence after allegedly being caught drink driving in Rye on 1 December. Officers were patrolling Point Nepean Road when they allegedly observed a vehicle travelling 62km/h in a 40km/h zone about 11.45pm. The vehicle was intercepted and the driver underwent a preliminary breath test and returned to the station for an evidentiary test where she returned an alleged reading of 0.165. The 22-year-old woman’s licence was immediately suspended for a period of 12 months and her vehicle was impounded at a cost of $1225. She is expected to be charged on summons with traffic offences.…
Junior school mayhem not acceptable As a Gen Xer, I am disgusted by the reoccurring stories about a particular junior primary school where the senior leaders, and particularly the principal, continue to show little regard for other students, teachers and teacher’s aides. Compassion and understanding seems only to be reserved for students that lash out, ruin and disrupt whole classrooms, damage thousands of dollars’ worth of resources, or bash other students or teachers. What is going on in schools when this type of behaviour is allowed? Which genius said it was okay, that no-one could intervene? The disgusting and anti-sociable…