Police will prepare a report for the coroner after the body of a woman was located in the water off Cape Schanck this afternoon. Emergency services were called to the bottom of the Cape Schanck boardwalk where the woman was located in the water about 12.15pm. Police winched the woman from the water, however sadly she was already deceased. It is understood a group of three people were swept off rocks near the boardwalk and only two were able to make it back to shore safely. The death is not believed to be suspicious. https://www.police.vic.gov.au/woman-pulled-water-unresponsive-cape-schanck
Author: mpnews
Repair the Stairs Further to last week’s article (Urgent call for stair repair, The News 24/9/24) relating to the fact that the stairs to Birdrock Beach have been closed for over two years, I have two very clear and concise questions that I would like to put directly to the CEO, CFO and director of planning and environment.When closure signage was erected at the top of the stairs in late 2022, it clearly stated that “the repairs to the stair infrastructure would be considered as a proposal for inclusion within the 2024/2025 shire budget”. Why weren’t the repairs to these…
A NEW education facility nestled within the Mornington Peninsula’s very own rainforest will help students learn about the natural environment and the area’s cultural heritage.The Nearkey Biik Education and Environment Centre was formally opened at Endeavour Fern Gully, a 28-hectare National Trust property that is the peninsula’s original rainforest featuring the area’s last remaining sections of indigenous bushland south of Red Hill.The National Trust of Victoria celebrated the official opening on September 6, with the name Nearkey Biik meaning “Take Care of Country”, which was made in partnership with the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation. The name also reflected both…
JOSIE Jones OAM addressed community members at the Mount Martha Yacht Club last Wednesday (18 September), where she highlighted the role of public consultation in solving environmental issues.Community feedback has revealed that 78% of residents surveyed preferred hand-cleaning over mechanical raking, and found the rake to be ineffective. The meeting reaffirmed the value of engaging in meaningful public discussions about the care of beaches and why we are stuck in a cycle of litter.Jones also educated the audience on the seasonal movement of tides from April to October, clarifying misconceptions regarding the accumulation of seaweed and litter. “Seaweed, which comes…
A path forward The Friends of the Beleura Cliff Path are collaborating with the shire to convince the state government (DEECA) to help fund the repairs to the two landslip areas on the path. Ninety per cent of the path is safer than it has ever been, but we are concerned about the slow progress towards fixing the landslip areas. We accept that the shire is short of money, but there are vital steps to be done now that would cost nothing.Study of the direct causes of the two landslips was not included in the $80,000 Stantec Report, which was…
Mornington Peninsula Crime Investigation Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance to help identify the driver of a ute that rammed a police car in Mount Martha earlier this month. Officers attempted to intercept the stolen orange Toyota Hilux ute near the intersection of Nepean Highway and Craigie Road about 1.30am on 13 September. After stopping momentarily, the ute turned around and intentionally rammed the side of the marked police car. The ute fled the scene and was located burnt out on Lloyd Park, Langwarrin about 1.50am. The two police officers inside the car sustained minor injuries. Investigators believe the…
THE RSPCA’s sweetest annual event Cupcake Day is back for its 16th year to raise money for the welfare for its four-legged pals. Schools, businesses, and residents of the Mornington Peninsula are being encouraged to don their aprons and help raise funds to support the RSPCA.“Cupcake Day is a wonderful way for everyone to connect with their community while making a real difference to support animals in need,” RSPCA Victoria events manager Kate Kasby said. “All funds raised go directly to our vital work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals across Victoria. “Your participation means the world to us and,…
GOLF enthusiasts in Mornington are getting ready to hit the green for a good cause.X-Golf Mornington (virtual indoor golf) has launched its inaugural Starlight Scramble to help brighten the lives of sick children. The fundraiser will run every day until 12 October with the national goal of funding five life-changing Starlight wishes at $7500 per wish. While X-Golf’s sights are set high at raising more than $35,000 they’re confident punters will join in to support the little ones.X-Golf’s Peter Nolan said when sick kids’ worlds are filled with hospitals and treatments, a Starlight Wish was an incredible gift of happiness.…
Major Collision Investigation Unit detectives are investigating a fatal collision in McCrae on Sunday 8 September. Emergency services were called to reports of a collision between a Toyota and a Honda at the intersection of Lonsdale Street and South Road about 10am. The driver and only occupant in the Toyota, a 55-year-old man from Rosebud was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Honda, a 92-year-old Blairgowrie man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The passenger in the Honda an 84-year-old Rosebud man was taken to hospital in a serious condition but later died in hospital…
MORE families will be able to enjoy an overnight stay at Point Nepean National Park with the expansion of the camping facilities now complete and bookings open for spring and summer.Thirteen new discovery tents within the historic Quarantine Station precinct have been installed allowing more visitors a unique and charming camping experience set among heritage buildings, and right next to beautiful rugged coastlines and beaches.Since the campground opened last year, more than 3,500 people have camped there – boosting tourism in the area and giving more people the chance to experience one of Victoria’s most fascinating national parks. The campground…
THE Southern Women’s Action Network (SWAN) Women Against Gender-Based Violence Group met with Federal MP for Dunkley, Jodie Belyea on 27 August to urge her help in preventing domestic and family violence.SWAN members, including Diane McDonald, Belinda Rodman, Cr Sarah Race and Maureen Donelly, say their group decided to appeal to Belyea in particular because of her proven track record in supporting women. According to the group, Crime Statistics Agency Victoria data for 2023 reported 2509 family violence incidents in Frankston and 2044 on the Mornington Peninsula (up 3.5% from 2022).The group stressed that both short-term and long-term low-cost housing…
Helping hands I am 92-years-old, disabled, and living alone in Rosebud with no family I can call on in times of need. I thought it was terrible when the bush rats moved into my garden, but then came the wind! On 1 September, the howling gale brought a huge ivy covered pine tree down into my back garden. It lay across the roof of my shed, my clothesline and back window. I rang the SES and they were helpful, removing it from my back window, chopped it up, but then had to go to another job, as they were flat…
Compiled by Cameron McCulloughON Sunday afternoon last, about 3.45 o’clock, Joan Fry, a daughter of Mrs. E. Fray, proprietress of the “Tangerine” Cafe, in the Palais de Danse Buildings, Playne street, Frankston, accompanied by her younger sister, Leila, and Charlie Bunney, were crossing Bay street, Frankston, near Patroni’s Pier Hotel, when a motor cycle and side car, the driver of which was proceeding in the direction of the Mornington road, accidentally knocked down Joan, running over the child’s legs.It is alleged that the driver stopped, got off his cycle, and after a cursory examination of the little girl, remarked:“She is…
TWO brand-new public electric vehicle (EV) fast chargers have been installed in Dromana at the Pier Street carpark. Mornington Peninsula Shire announced the charging stations on 4 September after the installations were fully funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s future fuels program and private industry.Mayor Councillor Simon Brooks said it was exciting to see the growth of EV installations across the Peninsula, “making it easier for both residents and visitors alike”. “Did you know that these new charging stations will charge a standard EV from zero to 80 per cent, in under an hour?” he said. “Who knows, maybe…
Compiled by Cameron McCullough MR. W. Evans, of Dandenong road, Frankston, was attending his cow on Monday morning last, when, suddenly, the animal became vicious.It turned round and attacked him with its horns, throwing him on his back, thereafter, gored him severely.He sustained a big hole in the groin, and one in the chest, also nasty bruises. His clothes were torn to ribbons. He was attended to by Dr. Hilliard Johnson, and by reason of the extent to which Mr. Evans was injured, he is expected to be laid up for at least several weeks.At present, Mrs. Evans is suffering…
Thanks to Keith Platt for being a ‘truth seeker I would like to express my sincere thanks to editor Keith Platt for all his work at Mornington Peninsula News Group (Retirement marks the end of an era, The News 4/9/2024). His commitment to the truth and reporting the facts on issues around the Mornington Peninsula has been outstanding.We are very, very fortunate to have an independent newspaper that puts our community first, gives a voice to the people and shines a torch on individuals or organisations who require investigation.Best wishes to Keith on his retirement – he will be greatly…
Police are appealing for public assistance to help locate missing man Nassim. The 32-year-old Dromana man was last seen on Spencer Avenue, Dromana about 10am on 2 September. Nassim is about 180cm tall, with a medium build, brown eyes, and short, dark, shaved hair. He was last seen wearing a black hoody, black pants, and black runners. Police and family have concerns for Nassim’s welfare due to a medical condition. He is diagnosed with an intellectual disability and he is non-verbal. Nassim is known to frequent the Preston, Doncaster and Reservoir areas. Investigators have released an image of Nassim in…
NATIONAL Works on Paper is one of the finest art awards and exhibitions in the country, attracting Australia’s leading contemporary artists working with paper, and is on at Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery until 24 November.There were 1,049 artists from across Australia who submitted entries for NWOP 2024, with 70 works shortlisted. Every state and territory is represented and for the first time, four Mornington Peninsula-based artists are finalists; Eleesa Howard, Joshua Searle, Rosie Weiss and Gidja Walker OAM. From painting, printmaking, drawing, video, sculpture and weaving, the finalists’ works explore the possibilities of paper and the personal and political power…
A DEDICATED team of Peninsula Health doctors and nurses have returned from a journey to Papua New Guinea as part an eight-day medical expedition led by the ‘No Roads Expeditions Foundation’.As one of the world’s most underdeveloped nations, Papua New Guinea grapples with some of the world’s worst health statistics. The country’s fragile health system, compounded by extremely poor health and immunisation outcomes, means there are difficulties accessing adequate health services and facilities.“I was eager to join in on another health expedition in Papua New Guinea as a way of giving to communities that I know are in desperate need,”…
Compiled by Cameron McCulloughUNDER very tragic circumstances, the death of Mr. Walter Victor Fitzsimmons, fish merchant, of Bay street, Frankston, occurred on Sunday morning last. The deceased was a young, returned soldier of 27, and served five years in the war.About 10.15 o’clock on the morning in question, the deceased left his house in company with Mr. George Whittingham, also a local resident of the town, with the intention of going out to fish.When they reached the Kananook creek, the boat was half-full of water. After bailing the water out of the craft, they dragged it through the sand for…
Gatehouse’s mismanagement Whoever is responsible for the upkeep of this heritage listed and protected building should be ashamed (Demolition order issued for historic gatehouse, The News 20/8/24). The people of the Mornington Peninsula, together with all Australians, trust you to preserve our history especially the old buildings, and we have been let down.I pass the gatehouse at least three times a week and over the past 20 years have noticed the gatehouse, surrounding entrance, including the adjacent period fencing has deteriorated to its present condition.A couple of kilometres down the highway towards Mornington an historic iron fence was damaged when…
DEVOTED Dad and CEO of the Mornington Community Support Centre Ben Smith was awarded the 2024 Victorian Father of the Year honour at a special ceremony at Melbourne Town Hall on Friday (30 August). The Mornington resident was honoured for his community advocacy and deep love for his family.Every day, Smith’s team hosts meals and provides support for those in need. The team strives to understand each person’s challenges and support them towards finding stability and long-term solutions. The current financial climate has seen more people through the doors at Mornington Community Support Centre than ever before. “I am sincerely…
ROSEBUD has been named as one of Australia’s top ten places to retire.Financial technical company Citro says research into retirement destinations showed Rosebud came sixth out of 30 based on such “key factors” as affordability, access to quality health care and a range of lifestyle options. Citro said that with a population of more than 14,000, Rosebud offered “a laidback allure, beachside living and a busy and welcoming community”.Armidale in New South Wales, Ingham, Queensland and Maryborough, Victoria top the rankings as potential retirement destinations.Citro predicted that “regional lifestyle property markets will flourish as more Australians than ever hit retirement…
NEW mum Jessica Baguley was pleased to learn that her newborn daughter Poppy’s birth will help save the life of a helpless baby in Uganda. Jessica’s obstetrician Dr Natalie Elphinstone makes a donation to a charity called Baby Watoto for each baby that she delivers, after discovering the plight of orphaned babies and vulnerable mothers in Watoto, Uganda.Dr Elphinstone gave Jessica a hippopotamus toy, handmade in the Watoto Village, as a keepsake and reminder of this special gift. “I feel so good knowing that my daughter’s birth has helped another pregnant woman and baby who are less fortunate,” said Baguley.…
Police have arrested a woman from Carrum Downs and a woman from Mornington in relation to an alleged stabbing in Cranbourne.Police allege that at around 8.40pm on 25 August, a pair tried and failed to carjack a woman on Sladen Street. The duo then allegedly stabbed a 35-year-old man on Lurline Street before stealing his car and driving it to Pakenham.The stabbing victim sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital.Police arrested two women later that night. In a statement, Victoria Police said detectives “are currently speaking to a 33-year-old Mornington woman and a 28-year-old Carrum Downs woman in relation…
Compiled by Cameron McCullough “HULLO! Earth!” was the startling greeting received by the writer who had established himself with a wireless set in the Baxter hills during the weekend. Then ensued the following dialogue:“Who’s speaking?”“Mars!” came the reply.“How are things going on with you up there?”“Good-o!” replied Mars, who was then asked to give a Martian opinion on the earth’s affairs, with which he proved himself to be in close touch.In the course of a long reply, he said:“From our viewpoint; up here, the most-notable recent event on earth was the real attempt to settle the vexed questions in Europe.…
The Briars ‘deals’ continue despite review Never mind the ‘review’, it seems Harry Potter’s spell remains on deals at The Briars! As some will know, a proposal to conduct a pilot at The Briars has been pushed in a public petition. There has been no public consultation, no open market process, and a report was tabled at last night’s meeting (20 August) as yet another ‘confidential’ item, bound in secrecy.After I called a division on the vote to consider this item in secret (division means to record how people vote), I’m stoked that most councillors rejected this attempt to push…
POLICE have experienced a rise in aggravated burglaries across the Mornington Peninsula and are pleading with residents to lock their doors. Local police intelligence indicates almost 65 per cent of peninsula homes targeted by offenders this year were unlocked. A further 20 per cent were unsuccessful attempts, when would-be thieves tried doors and windows, but realised they were secured.Police across the Mornington Peninsula are targeting burglars in the area, who are taking advantage of both unlocked homes and unoccupied holiday homes in the cooler months. A man accused of 16 home and commercial burglaries, as well as stealing and breaking…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillors are backing moves to reduce speed limits on roads surrounding a “hidden gem of the peninsula”. Four of the five roads – Hodgins, Derril, Graydens and Stumpy Gully – either border or traverse Devilbend Reserve, while the fifth road, Tuerong leads to the reserve from Old Moorooduc Road.At their public meeting on 6 August councillors agreed with 226 signatories to a petition calling for speed limits on the five roads to be reduced to 60kph. Traffic and transport team leader Brett Whitwam said the five roads were included in an investigation already underway into speed limits…
THE Hastings-based Dolphin Research Centre says there is a growing need for understanding the presence and absence of whales along the Victorian coastline to help inform decisions on proposed offshore developments.The DRI hosts the citizen science Two Bays Whale Project to record sightings of whales in Victorian waters and in 2020, started the Two Bays Tracker program to monitor whales, or their absence, through timed surveys. “Data collected in this program can help provide up-to-date information on the movement of whales, particularly providing a better understanding of the seasonality of humpback whale migration,” research fellow at the DRI Ella Hutchinson…