MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire is rebooting the way it delivers youth services, moving from an in-house approach to a new hybrid model which relies more on external providers.The decision comes after a scheduled service review found low engagement levels and questions around whether council was best suited to deliver youth services directly. “The engagement’s low and there’s probably two reasons for that. One is maybe the service isn’t as good as it could be, and the other one is people just don’t know about it,” Mayor Anthony Marsh said.“We absolutely acknowledge that there’s a role for council to play, but in…
Browsing: Mornington Peninsula
A WELL-KNOWN construction firm based in Blairgowrie has gone into liquidation, leaving more than 90 unsecured creditors out of pocket by over $1.6m.Made Build, recognised for its architecturally designed coastal homes, stopped operations in early September. The company, which marketed itself as a specialist in bespoke, luxury residential projects, has received multiple awards with articles published in magazines after developing a strong reputation prior to its financial collapse.It also noted its director Daryl Powell was a third-generation builder who “lives and works in Blairgowrie and has had 20 years of experience in the building industry”. “We provide excellence and expertise…
A MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillor has drawn the ire of a stalwart of local government on the peninsula, with his suggestion that no councillor should be allowed to serve more than three terms (12 years) in a lifetime.Brian Stahl OAM, who served a total of 12 years in two stints in the Shire of Hastings (1987 – 1994) and then again in Mornington Peninsula Shire (2003 – 2008) decried the shortsightedness of the motion, and what he sees as the politicisation of council that led to it.At the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council meeting on 23 September, Cr Bruce Ranken moved…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillors have voted for the shire’s CEO, Mark Stoermer, to prepare and present a “Climate Resilience Plan” to council, replacing the Climate Emergency Declaration and the Climate Action Plan that they scrapped in April.The shire’s previous Climate Action Plan was adopted in August 2020, one year after the shire declared a climate emergency. The plan entailed a ten-year program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lessen the effects of climate change.The newly elected council first questioned the plan in January this year with a motion passed for shire officers to prepare a report to help councillors make…
WHILE Rosebud Hospital will undergo a major $4m refurbishment to boost patient safety, modernise facilities, and improve emergency care access, Member for Nepean Sam Groth has told The News the amount falls well short of the investment required.During a visit to the hospital last week, Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas confirmed the funding, which will support upgrades to ventilation systems, infection control, and the emergency department – designed to enhance care for patients and working conditions for staff.The upgrade will include the installation of new ventilation and infection control systems, helping to improve overall hospital hygiene and safety standards. The emergency…
A CONTROVERSIAL plan to build a giant high-tech industry and business park in Somerville is a step closer after Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors backed an independent planning panel’s report.The proposed development, known as Amendment C243morn, would occupy a large parcel of land at 79 and 83 Bungower Rd in Somerville with offerings in manufacturing, research and development, smaller start-ups and small to medium enterprises.The plan is being privately led by Procter Investments Pty Ltd, the founders of navigation technology company Sealite. If approved, it would see a technology, industry and business park created, providing up to 1100 jobs with the…
THE Mornington Peninsula Fwy is set to be upgraded as part of a state-wide road maintenance blitz.The state government said all roads would be prioritised based on expert assessments and community feedback. Roads and Road Safety Minister Melissa Horne made the announcement on 23 September as part of the c. Crews will undertake projects over the next nine months, ranging from road rehabilitation and resurfacing, patching potholes and maintaining bridges, installing traffic lights and signage.“As well as repairing some of our busiest roads, crews will also mow, slash and spray tens of thousands of kilometres of roadsides, inspect and repair…
CRIME on the Mornington Peninsula rose by 10.6 percent in the 2024/25 financial year, newly released figures from the Crime Statistics Agency reveal.There were 9,333 criminal incidents recorded in the Mornington Peninsula LGA in the year ending June 2025. That figure equates to 5425 criminal incidents per 100,000 population.Mornington was the peninsula suburb most affected by crime, followed closely by Rosebud and Hastings. Dromana and Somerville rounded out the top five.Stealing from a motor vehicle was the most common offence, with 1313 incidents recorded. There were 864 reported incidents of other theft, 749 incidents of breaching family violence orders, and…
A 14-year-old boy from the Mornington Peninsula has been charged with a string of offences, including committing an indictable offence whilst on bail, and has been remanded in custody after taking part in a crime spree with other children earlier this week. The boy has also been charged with robbery, armed robbery, aggravated burglary (offensive weapon), attempted armed robbery, and theft of motor vehicle. The four were arrested after an allegedly stolen Mazda SUV was spotted near the intersection of Thompsons and Berwick-Cranbourne roads about 3am yesterday morning. The vehicle was followed to Bells Road in Clyde North where stop…
A significant animal welfare operation was executed today (25/9) at a property on Moorooduc Highway in Mt Eliza, with the RSPCA seizing 35 horses. The operation, following months of investigation and concern from the local community, involved a team of ten RSPCA personnel, and followed the execution of a second warrant after evidence was seized from the property last week (RSPCA executes warrant after animal welfare concerns, The News 19/9/25). The seizure is the culmination of a long-running investigation which began in April after concerned community members issued reports on the treatment of animals on the property (RSPCA investigates horse…
Police have arrested five men after a police vehicle was rammed in Carrum Downs overnight, followed by an extended follow through the peninsula. Officers on patrol first responded to reports of three vehicles performing burn outs in an industrial area on Sahra Grove about 11.40pm. As police approached the scene, a Holden Commodore accelerated heavily, ramming the police car front on. It is understood the Commodore, which had no plates, then reversed into a tree before fleeing the scene. Luckily, the officers inside the vehicle were not injured. With the assistance of the Air Wing, vehicle was followed as it…
THE Portsea Camp, a vital not-for-profit providing unforgettable camp experiences to disadvantaged youth, has proudly teamed up with TLC Healthcare as its new platinum sponsor.Under the partnership, TLC will contribute $100,000 annually over the next three years, which will significantly expand The Portsea Camp’s flagship Making a Difference programs, providing nature and adventure-based camps to more young Victorians impacted by disadvantage and childhood disruption.The Portsea Camp CEO Sandra Martin said the partnership would support more than 100 additional young people each year offering a vital break from daily challenges and the chance to focus on both physical and emotional wellbeing…
MORE than 150 emergency services gathered at Arthurs Seat Eagle on 17 September for a large-scale rescue simulation aimed to prepare for a real-life emergency. The popular tourist attraction on the Mornington Peninsula was temporarily closed to allow the training session involving CFA, VICSES, Fire Rescue Victoria, Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police, and the Mornington Peninsula Shire to test their management plan.The operation involved a complex mock scenario where 24 trapped passengers were safely extricated from six gondolas following a simulated mechanical failure. This included helping a person in a wheelchair, and with a guide dog and baby.Dromana Fire Brigade 1st…
The RSPCA executed a warrant and seized evidence from a Moorooduc Highway property in Mt Eliza on 18 September. The raid comes after months of community concerns and protests over the condition and treatment of animals on the property. A statement from RSPCA Victoria said, “new evidence and information lodged directly to RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate, from eyewitnesses, enabled us to take this swift action”. “We would like to assure the community we are doing everything in our power under the legislation to investigate this matter.” Carly Wines, who has organised continuous protests on the property since April, said she would…
WILDLIFE advocates are renewing calls for drivers to slow down and stay alert after a mother kangaroo was tragically killed in Arthurs Seat. The incident occurred on Arthurs Seat Rd after the kangaroo was struck by a car, causing critical injuries.According to the Vets for Compassion Facebook page, the mother kangaroo managed to reach dense bushland with her joey but was badly injured and had struggled to move. When rescuers arrived the next morning, they came across a rare and emotional scene with two male kangaroos standing guard over the injured mother with her joey.“Through the long, cold night they…
MORNINGTON Peninsula has recorded 227 reports of animal cruelty over the past financial year with 22 animals either seized or surrendered. The new data was released in RSPCA Victoria’s latest animal cruelty report, making the peninsula the 13th highest in the state for animal cruelty. The report ranked each Victorian local government area (LGA) with Geelong topping the list with 560 reports, followed by Casey (470), and Hume (431) for the 2024-25 financial year.Mornington Peninsula’s 227 cruelty reports matched the previous year’s figure but was still fewer than the 2022-23 financial year (281 reports). There were also fewer animals seized…
Around 120 wallabies will be relocated from The Briars wildlife sanctuary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the population, after a unanimous vote of councillors tonight (16/9). Last year, an increase in the availability of food for the wallabies, brought about by increased rainfall, stimulated high breeding rates. The change to drier conditions this year has conversely reduced food availability, leading to pressure on the population and the environment. It is estimated there are approximately 150 wallabies currently in the sanctuary at The Briars, while the recommended carry capacity – the number of animals to remain sustainable – is around…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillors have endorsed a draft “Community Disaster Resilience Plan”, which will now be released for community input. The decision was made at the council’s 2 September and will identify local strengths, needs, and priorities with emergencies and disasters.The draft plan will guide how the council supports the community to prepare for clear communication during emergencies, as well as plan and prioritise emergency preparedness activities, and assess the impact of its actions and improve future responses.A statement from the council’s draft plan said it focused on leading change and coordinating preparedness through strong networks and partnerships, and also…
Ambulance Victoria has expressed serious concern after two female paramedics were allegedly set upon in a violent assault on Main Street, Mornington earlier today (13/9). The paramedics were walking the street at approximately 11:30am when they were allegedly attacked. They were not treating a patient or attending a case at the time. One of the paramedics sustained injuries after allegedly being kicked by the alleged offender and is currently being assessed in hospital. The matter is now in the hands of Victoria Police, who are investigating. Members of the public who witnessed the alleged assault came to the paramedics’ aid.…
BIRD lovers and nature enthusiasts are in for a treat as the Mornington Peninsula gears up to host its inaugural Bird Festival, featuring guided trips, an art show, expert talks and beginner-friendly workshops. Running on the weekend of 22–23 November, the event will shine a spotlight on the diverse birdlife of the region, offering visitors of all ages a chance to connect with nature in meaningful and exciting ways. All events and activities will be based at Coolart Homestead and wetlands. This includes bird watching with well-respected bird guides both mornings, plus a trip on Western Port and another to…
A PENINSULA-based solicitor has criticised the Mornington Peninsula Shire after his client found himself in court facing the possibility of a hefty fine over a litter of puppies he sold on Gumtree. The client, from Mornington, believed he had abided by all applicable regulations by having the eight puppies microchipped and registered before listing them for sale, only to be hit with charges that could carry potential fines totalling over $65,000. The charges related to the shire’s Community Amenity Local Law 2022, section 22, which states: “A person, other than the proprietor of a registered domestic animal business or a…
A TRAIL running couple from the Mornington Peninsula are preparing to represent Australia at one of the world’s most prestigious endurance events this month in Spain. Tom Dade and his partner Miah Noble have earned their place among the world’s elite after being selected to compete in the 2025 World Mountain and Trail Running Championships from 25-28 September.The event will be held in Canfranc-Pirineos in the Spanish Pyrenees known for its stunning mountain scenery and rich history. It will bring together the top trail and mountain runners from across the globe as they take on gruelling courses featuring steep climbs…
DEVILBEND Golf Club is set to undergo a major pro-shop and clubhouse redevelopment after the Mornington Peninsula Shire backed the project by agreeing to act as a loan guarantor. The $1.1m project would see the clubhouse facilities upgraded to provide additional and upgraded services for its members. Councillors voted unanimously at their 2 September meeting for the shire to act as a loan guarantor as part of the club’s bid to secure a $450,000 loan from Bendigo Bank, which would be repaid over ten years. The club, based in Moorooduc, has received in-principle approval of the loan from the bank,…
The board of inquiry into the McCrae landslide has concluded, with inquiry chair, Renée Enbom KC today delivering her report to the Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, at Government House. The board of inquiry’s findings and recommendations are set out in the report which is now with the Victorian government. It is expected the report will be reviewed by the government before being released to the public in the coming days. On 18 March 2025, Enbom was appointed by the Governor in Council to chair the board of inquiry into the 14 January 2025…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillors have approved a land lease expansion of the Main Ridge CFA brigade to allow the installation of a second water tank, boosting the brigade’s emergency response capacity.The decision, made at the council’s 2 September meeting, comes in response to growing concerns over water availability for fire callouts in the region with the nearest reticulated water supply being in Browns Rd in Boneo, near Graceland Rd, some 12km away. Currently the brigade operates with one tank onsite, however the lease expansion would permit a second tank to be placed within the brigade’s grounds at Main Creek Rd…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillors have rejected a motion to declare a homelessness emergency after the deputy mayor warned state and federal government inaction would pass “the burden onto the ratepayer”. The shire has had a housing crisis declaration in place since 2021 in response to the growing pressure on housing affordability and availability across the peninsula. But with the peninsula now having the highest number of people sleeping rough out of any local government area in Victoria, Cr Max Patton moved a motion at the council’s 2 September meeting calling for a homelessness emergency to formally recognise the worsening situation.…
Southern Metro Crime Squad detectives have charged four youths following an alleged aggravated home invasion in Rosebud and pursuit through multiple suburbs Thursday morning. A group of male offenders, allegedly armed with firearms and a knife, forced entry into a property on Bilbul Avenue in Rosebud about 2.50am. It is alleged they entered a bedroom, threatened the male and female occupant and forced them to hand over cash, before fleeing in a white Mercedes SUV. The allegedly stolen Mercedes was spotted by police a short time later on the Peninsula Link near Moorooduc, but it sped off. Details of the…
Six males aged between 17 and 21 have been arrested following an overnight aggravated home invasion in Rosebud and pursuit through multiple suburbs. It is alleged the group of male offenders forced entry into a property on Bilbul Avenue in Rosebud about 2.50am. The two occupants, a man, and a woman, barricaded themselves in a bedroom before the youths, allegedly armed with two firearms and a knife, opened the door, threatened them, and demanded valuables. The man and woman, who were forced to hand over around $1,000 in cash, both sustained minor injuries during the incident. The offenders fled in…
Three people have been arrested – one facing serious drug trafficking charges – after police seized half a kilogram of cocaine and a suitcase full of cash from a home in Chelsea. Following investigations into the alleged trafficking of cocaine and ketamine in Melbourne’s southeast, detectives from the Caulfield Divisional Response Unit executed two search warrants at a home on Embankment Grove, Chelsea and on Wren Road, Moorabbin, from about 6am on Monday 1 September. At the Chelsea address, police located 500g of cocaine with an estimated potential street value of $150,000, and approximately $785,000 cash in a suitcase. Two…