MEN’S DIV ONEMORNINGTON celebrated a win for the ages on Saturday, saving themselves from relegation and casting Frankston Bombers into division two. Sitting comfortably last on the MPFNL division one ladder, their final match of the season was against Red Hill, and it was a must-win for the Bulldogs. They fought hard all day and went into quarter time four points up and then into the long break with a seven-point lead.After that, it all fell apart for Mornington and relegation seemed a foregone conclusion. Red Hill came out in the third quarter and decimated the Bulldogs. They kicked 6.7…
Browsing: Mornington Peninsula
THE heritage-listed Norman Lodge gatehouse on Nepean Highway, Mount Eliza, faces demolition after a structural engineer’s report identified the building as having suffered “total loss of structural integrity”. Norman Lodge Estate’s listing on the Victorian Heritage Register, which includes the gatehouse, notes the site “is significant to the history and development of Victoria and is protected by law.” The estate is considered a rare intact example of one of several bayside estates constructed in the 1860s as summer retreats for Melbourne’s businessmen. It is one of the few of these estates which was not substantially subdivided during the mid-20th century,…
MOOROODUC Fire Brigade last week took delivery of a heavy tanker and an ultra heavy tanker to increase its firefighting capabilities.MP for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh joined brigade members and representatives from the Country Fire Authority to handover the tankers and thank volunteers for their service to the community.Valued at $460,000, the heavy tanker is one of 48 being rolled out by the state government to brigades across the state. The heavy tanker includes features to help reduce firefighter fatigue, including electronic monitors and electric rewind hose reels.The government also provided 29 ultra heavy tankers, including the one at Moorooduc,…
SKATEBOARD and scooter riders are being invited to have a say on designs for a $1 million upgrade to the Rye skate park. Skate park design company Playce has been hired by Mornington Peninsula Shire Council to improve the existing design. The design was drawn up after skaters met with shire officers and the Playce team during several workshops last year. The resulting design is open for public comment until 4 September.The first stage of the upgrade includes making the skate park suitable for beginners, including such street skate elements as mini ramps, banks, blocks, manual pads and rails. The…
SOCCER HAYDEN Taylor is the new senior coach of Baxter after Saturday’s shock 5-4 loss to visitor Brighton. He replaces his father in a caretaker capacity following Kevin “Squizzy” Taylor’s dramatic resignation amid chaotic scenes during this State 4 South clash.Baxter went into this contest a clear favourite against a side which had won just two games and lost 14 but by the final whistle Brighton had earned another precious win and given itself a faint hope in the relegation battle. Contrast that with Baxter’s roller-coaster season and a dismal first-half display providing a backdrop for a head coach about…
Non-equal rights for shire voters In federal and state elections, those enrolled may vote in only one seat, the one in which they reside. The Victorian Parliament has enacted a new law which ensures that residents on the roll of any of its electorates are also automatically placed on the voters list of the municipality within it, where they live, but proprietors of businesses and owners of properties such as holiday homes in that municipality are required to make their own arrangements to be placed on the voters roll.This means that all federal voters have equal opportunity to influence federal…
A PLANNING scheme amendment that allows for 1,200 new homes a year to be built on the peninsula was adopted by council at their meeting last week (6 August).The shire states the amendment C219morn provides a sustainable approach to housing on the Peninsula by: A shire release stated “Amendment C219morn meets the State Government’s draft housing targets under its long-term housing plan for Victoria. The amendment will provide for about 1,200 new homes per year to house our growing population which is expected to reach 180,000- 200,000 residents by 2036,” and insisted the new planning scheme would not affect the…
Compiled by Cameron McCulloughON Friday last at about 12.45, W. McTaggart, son of Seaford’s popular butcher, was driving a horse and cart along Seaford road, when the animal suddenly took fright and bolted with the lad.On turning into Railway Parade the lad was horrified to notice that the midday express train was running parallel to him, and the horse was actually keeping level.The lad realised that if he could not manage the horse before the Station Street crossing was reached, a serious collision must occur. However, his efforts were unavailing, and there was a grave possibility of an accident, until…
A NUMBER of state government-managed toilet facilities in Mornington Peninsula tourist hotspots have been closed for months, with padlocked doors or fencing around them, and no sign of reopening. An attempt by Cr David Gill to shine a light on the closures was seized by his colleague Cr Steve Holland who tried to turn the issue into an attack on both Gill and The News. Tourism is a vital segment of our economy, and the visitor experience essential for our future prosperity. A notice of motion from Gill presented to Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors at the 23 July public meeting…
CAMERAS were rolling at Mornington last week for a new thriller movie, although it appears viewers will think they are watching a drama unfold in the United States.The Mornington Yacht Club and The Rocks building was rebranded the Oceanic Research Center, South Carolina, while a television live broadcast truck bore the name ALB6 News, Atlantic Local Broadcasting. Spectators and film crew gathered round a four-wheel drive vehicle partly crushed by a fallen power pole.While the name of the film is being kept secret, the state government has not been slow in congratulating itself for enhancing “Victoria’s reputation as a global…
STORIES about the kidnapping of Aboriginal women by sealers at Point Nepean and their being taken to islands in Bass Strait were recounted last month for about 50 members of Southern Women’s Action Network (SWAN).The presentations by Bunurong woman and community educator Aunty Jillian West and Aunty Deb Mellett, a Gurindji woman from the Northern Territory were made a week after this year’s NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee ) Week at SWAN’s 21 July meeting at Mount Martha Community House.“Aunty Jillian is a descendent from Point Nepean, and Palawa from the Islands of Bass Strait. Her address,…
A NEW community group has been formed to back an independent candidate for the federal seat of Flinders, now held for the Liberal Party by Zoe McKenzie. The Independent 4 Flinders (I4F) group says it is aiming “to not only find a stellar community independent candidate but also grow a strong and unified grassroots movement to support this candidate being elected”.Twenty-two people at the group’s inaugural meeting on 26 May at Mount Martha House heard an “outline” of its chances of “flipping Flinders”. The meeting was convened by Sarah Russell (who stood as an independent candidate for Flinders at the…
THE future of foreshore camping is being considered by the Mornington Peninsula Shire. The shire has begun its first round of consultation to draft a “foreshore camping strategy”. The strategy is expected to assess preferred accommodation options, payment methods, accessibility measures, and other potential improvements.The mayor Cr Simon Brooks said that drafting a new strategy would help improve the foreshore camping experience. “Our foreshore camping areas are a treasured asset, and we want to ensure they remain accessible and enjoyable for everyone. I encourage all community members to share their ideas and help us develop a draft strategy that benefits…
MPNFL MEN’S DIV ONESORRENTO endured one of their most miserable days in recent memory last Saturday when they took on ladder leaders Dromana. The Tigers have lost just twice this season, and Sorrento have floated around the middle of the ladder. After a scrappy first quarter, Dromana put their foot down and dominated.The second half was when most of the damage was done. Sorrento scored just one behind for the half, and saw 11 goals go in at the other end. Dromana came away from the game with a stunning 115 point win – 18.16 (124) to 1.3 (9).Clayton Gay…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire last week agreed to televise online briefing meetings that are held behind closed doors. The decision was made at the same time that council adopted a review of its public transparency policy.It is understood by The News that councillors and the CEO Baker met the following day and discussed rescinding the motion they had adopted just hours before. Legal advice will be sought.Debate at the council’s Tuesday 23 July public meeting followed a report from governance officer Diana Harris and acting governance manager Pam Vercoe that stated briefing and workshop documents were not intended for public release…
Mornington Peninsula Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged a man with 41 offences following a series of aggravated burglaries and commercial burglaries on the Mornington Peninsula. It’s alleged the incidents occurred between 17 June and 17 July, 2024 including: • A burglary at a supermarket in Blairgowrie on 28 June where cigarettes and a charity tin were stolen. • A burglary at a general store on 2 July where cigarettes were stolen. • A burglary at a liquor store on 13 July where cigarettes and liquor were stolen. At least $70,000 worth of cigarettes were stolen during the burglaries. Investigators…
EVERY fortnight at the Moorooduc Hall, the sounds of what could be mistaken for a large family celebration backed by live music ring from the quaint, red brick walls and fill the country air with happiness. These folk of all ages and backgrounds may not be related by blood, but they do share a bond over music and the restorative social, mental and health benefits it brings them.Although the Seaside Community Orchestra is still in its fledgling stage, after being founded by Mount Martha music lover Becca Smith and her daughter Jemima, 20, last October, the cohesion and energy of…
PENINSULA Health CEO Felicity Topp has resigned after more than six years in the top job.Peninsula Health runs Frankston Hospital, Rosebud Hospital, and the Frankston Public Surgical Centre. Its board is now on the hunt for a new CEO – Adj Associate Professor Helen Cooper has been appointed acting CEO while a permanent replacement is sought.Peninsula Health board chair Michael Gorton has praised Topp for her work in the role, especially for helping the $1.1 billion Frankston Hospital redevelopment get off the ground. “Peninsula Health has achieved many significant milestones under Felicity’s leadership, including the $1.1 billion redevelopment of Frankston…
FLINDERS MP Zoe McKenzie wants voters to “please consider” Australia’s use of nuclear power.In support of the Liberal Party’s federal opposition leader Peter Dutton, McKenzie says cheaper, cleaner and consistent electricity “involves the exploration of nuclear energy in Australia … the most uranium rich country on the planet”.McKenzie aired her views on nuclear energy on her Facebook page and Sky News, but did not respond when asked by The News to respond to comments by Labor MP for South East Victoria, Tom McIntosh. He said Dutton and McKenzie “must come clean” and provide the cost of nuclear reactors, the cost…
ORGANISERS of the ‘Peninsula Peace Walk for Palestine’ in Mornington last Sunday week (7 July) say the event turnout showed strong support for an end to the war in Gaza.One of the main organisers, Stefan Raabe, said the idea of the walk was to create access for people on the Mornington Peninsula who want to be involved in peaceful protest against the genocide and “apartheid”.“We planned the walk to coincide with the action that takes place each Sunday outside the State Library. Not everyone can travel into the city every weekend,” he said. More than 30 people joined the walk…
MPNFL MEN’S DIV ONEROSEBUD came close to pulling off an upset against Dromana last weekend, but fell just short.Dromana has lost just twice this season, and sits on top of the ladder. Rosebud came into the game with seven wins and five losses.Rosebud landed a huge blow in the first quarter, and went into the first break with a 24 point lead. They scored five consecutive goals to start the match. Dromana woke up in the second quarter, and hit back with four goals of their own. At the main break the Tigers trailed Rosebud by just three points. Rosebud…
SIGNS promoting “hidden treasures” on French Island are among 200 projects to be paid for by the state government in metropolitan and regional towns having fewer than 5000 residents.“Western Port Biosphere has received $8000 to deliver informative and visually striking signs for French Island to highlight the hidden treasurers that the island possesses,” Hastings MP Paul Mercurio said.A further $50,000 would go to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council for a new amenities block at Bittern Community Hall. The shire would add another $50,000 towards the block.Mercurio said the $20 million Tiny Towns Fund would “make our smallest communities even better places…
MPNFL MEN’S DIV TWOEDITHVALE-Aspendale is now two games clear on top of the ladder after picking up a big win over fellow premiership contenders Chelsea. Edi-Asp came into the match against Chelsea last Saturday with just one loss to their name for the 2024 season. Chelsea had only lost twice all year. Edi-Asp established control of the game early, and never gave it up. They went into the first break ahead by three goals, then stretched their lead to four goals by half-time.It was more of the same in the second half as Edithvale-Aspendale continued to pile on the pressure.…
ALMOST 2700 people were arrested for family violence offences between January and June this year across the Mornington Peninsula and south-east, in a major police blitz targeting some of Melbourne’s most impacted areas.More than 7500 charges were laid across the peninsula as well as Cardinia, Casey, Frankston and Greater Dandenong.The strong police focus to start the year included proactive checks on known offenders and victims to increase the chances of family violence being detected. Last financial year the suburbs of the Mornington Peninsula, Frankston, Cardinia, Casey, and Greater Dandenong accounted for 70 per cent of violence-related offences across Victoria.The Mornington…
AN embarrassed Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has apologised to RSLs around the peninsula, after contractors failed to collect Anzac Day wreaths that were laid in April. Dromana RSL secretary Julia Edgerton said a kind volunteer was recently forced to remove and dispose of the sub branches’ wreath themselves, a task that is difficult for the mostly elderly volunteers, and costly for the RSL. “The wreaths should have been removed two months ago…I requested it be done as soon as possible, but they sent an email saying they couldn’t do it,” she said. “I checked on the council website and it…
SOCCERNEW signings and player axings stole the limelight last week with Baxter featuring prominently. Noah Green, Joey Bucello and Robbie O’Toole were released by Baxter while Ryan Brown has left on a pre-planned overseas trip. Green had a stellar season last year and will likely join a club closer to his Southbank home. It’s believed that there has been an undercurrent of unrest among a section of the playing group throughout the season and head coach Kevin “Squizzy” Taylor decided that action had to be taken. That resulted in last week’s cull. But Taylor already has plans to reinforce the…
MOURNERS gathered at Frankston Pier last weekend to remember the life of Andres Pancha. Pancha was a 45-year-old father of three from Cranbourne West. He was allegedly killed while fishing at Frankston Pier on the morning of 29 June. A man has since been charged with his murder. A large crowd visited Frankston Pier at sunrise on Saturday, 6 July, to take part in a vigil commemorating Pancha. A Gofundme to assist Pancha’s family has raised more than $22,000 so far. The fundraiser organisers wrote “this unimaginable act has left our family devastated and in profound grief. Andres was a…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Council officers are looking for ways to limit how long boats and caravans are left parked in streets. Councillors have told the officers to investigate ways to make sure boats and caravans are not “parked on roads for long periods or indefinitely”. However, councillors have already been warned that under existing laws registered boats, trailers and caravans can be parked in streets for up to eight weeks. After eight weeks council can consider a vehicle to be have been abandoned, although this could be contested if they are “within the vicinity of the registered owner’s known address”.…
A RARE and endangered orchid once found in parts of the Mornington Peninsula and Frankston was last week given a helping hand to return, thanks to a team of experts and passionate volunteers. The Frankston spider orchid, Caladenia robinsonii, is regarded as being critically endangered, with 347 plants remaining in Frankston, Rosebud and Rye as a result of habitat destruction.Laboratory-raised plants from the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria nursery have been reintroduced to their natural habitat on the peninsula with the assistance of staff, and volunteers from the La Trobe Botany Society and ANOS Vic.Lead researcher Dr Noushka Reiter, senior research…
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire Councill will ramp up efforts to stem graffiti vandalism, as unsightly tagging continues to deface public and private buildings across the peninsula.At the end of July, the council will host a graffiti management workshop with stakeholders to identify graffiti issues across the peninsula and discuss mitigating graffiti through creative programs. A council spokesperson said graffiti was already “promptly” removed on shire assets, and the council actively encouraged graffiti to be removed from non-shire assets as soon as possible.For graffiti on non-shire assets the council recommends reporting it to the police, or when on public utilities (for example…