Police Investigate Truck Theft and Fire in Frankston
Police are investigating the theft of a truck from a Frankston home on 19 April. The vehicle was later found ablaze in Baxter Park. Investigators are appealing for public assistance.
STPL News
McCrae couple wins legal fight against Mornington Peninsula Shire over $1.25 million landslip bill
A McCrae couple has won a major legal victory over the Mornington Peninsula Shire, after being told they’d have to pay $1.25 million to stabilise a cliff behind their home.
Parliamentary Petition Launched Over Mt Eliza Horse Welfare Crisis
A parliamentary petition initiated by a local resident addresses horse neglect at a Mt Eliza property, seeking stronger animal protection laws. It follows community outrage and protests over the welfare of over 30 neglected horses.
Police Appeal for Witnesses After Dandenong Stabbing Incident
Victoria Police are appealing for witnesses after a 28-year-old man was stabbed on Thomas Street, Dandenong. CCTV footage has been released as the investigation continues.
Sarah Race’s Effective Grassroots Campaign – RPP FM Interview
Labor’s Sarah Race ran a strong grassroots campaign in the 2025 Flinders electorate, door-knocking 10,000 homes and nearly matching Ben Smith’s primary vote—despite being outspent by Zoe McKenzie and Smith.
Labor Secures Historic Second Term as Coalition and Greens Suffer Major Setbacks
Labor has claimed victory in the 2025 federal election, returning Anthony Albanese as Prime Minister. Peter Dutton loses Dickson, Greens collapse, and Flinders remains undecided.
Zoe McKenzie Likely to Retain Flinders, But Local Swings Show Regional Divide
Liberal MP Zoe McKenzie holds Flinders in 2025 election. Regional divides emerge; support grows in Somerville but wanes in Rosebud and Dromana. Final results pending.
Labor Retains Dunkley as Albanese Secures Second Term
Labor wins 2025 federal election; Jodie Belyea retains Dunkley. Flinders remains uncertain. Stay updated with STPL News.
2025 Live Election Coverage: Dutton Loses Seat
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is projected to lose his Queensland seat of Dickson, with Labor's Ali France leading. If confirmed, this marks a significant political shift and Dutton's first loss since 2001.
Conroy Sign on War Memorial Prompts Election Day Fury
Outrage has erupted in Frankston after a campaign sign for Liberal candidate Nathan Conroy was placed on a local war memorial on election day, prompting swift removal and fierce backlash.
Dunkley Decides: Final Hours of Voting in Crucial Federal Contest
The 2025 federal election is underway in Dunkley, a critical seat for the Albanese Government. Voters have until 6pm to decide between Labor’s Jodie Belyea and Liberal’s Nathan Conroy.
Liberal Stronghold at Risk: Flinders Faces Political Earthquake
The 2025 federal election sees Flinders' long-standing Liberal seat under threat as Independent Ben Smith gains momentum against incumbent Zoe McKenzie.
Election Fatigue Sets In
Election fatigue is rising across Victoria as voters face back-to-back campaigns. With no major electoral break until 2027, Frankston and Mornington Peninsula mental health services are feeling the strain.
Flinders Candidate Ben Smith Faces Scrutiny Over Campaign Ties to Pro-Palestinian Activists
Flinders candidate Ben Smith is facing last-minute scrutiny over his campaign team’s links to pro-Palestinian activism, with Climate 200 distancing itself from staff involved in controversial protests and public statements.
Mornington Locals Rally Around Family of Nathan Abeling After Tragic Fishing Accident
Mornington locals are rallying behind the family of 22-year-old Nathan Abeling, who died after being struck by a freak wave during a fishing trip. A GoFundMe has raised over $15,000.
Political Support Grows following Mornington Peninsula Horse Welfare Protest
Urgent support in Mornington Peninsula for horse protection at Mount Eliza grows with political backing. Community rally for intervention.
Community Fundraiser Delivers $35,000 Boost for New Rosebud Hospital Service
The Village Glen and Rosebud residents raised nearly $35,000 through the Feb 50 Appeal to fund a new Lymphedema Service at Rosebud Hospital, offering local specialised care.
Missing Teen: Police Seek Help to Find Aleisha
14-year-old Aleisha is missing after last being seen on Eastbourne Road, Rosebud, on Monday afternoon. Police are urging anyone with information to contact Rosebud Police Station.
Backlash Grows Over State Government Plan to Axe Fisheries Officers
Conservationists, fishers and unions unite against a Victorian Government proposal to remove fisheries officers, warning it threatens marine wildlife and fish stocks.
Stylish Bargains for a Good Cause
Find stylish gifts and homewares at unbeatable prices at Mornington’s It's Okay Not To Be Okay sale on 3 May.
Men 60 and Over – Find Mates and Conversation at OM:NI Hastings!
Men aged 60 and over are invited to join OM:NI Hastings, a welcoming men’s support and discussion group meeting twice monthly at The Hub. Find mateship and meaningful conversation.
Inside Maxine’s Equine House of Horrors: A Community’s Battle Over Horse Welfare
Maxine Fraser, once a local horse breeder, now faces serious community outrage and ongoing RSPCA investigations over disturbing allegations of starvation, inbreeding, and cruelty on the Mornington Peninsula.
Over 700 Impaired Drivers Caught in Victoria Police Road Blitz
Victoria Police caught more than 700 drink and drug drivers during Operation Compass, a major road safety blitz over Easter and Anzac Day. Nine fatal collisions were also recorded.
Community Demands Action Over Horse Welfare at Mornington Peninsula Protest
Community anger over horse welfare concerns at a Mount Eliza property reached a tipping point yesterday, with hundreds of residents gathering to call for urgent action. STPL News brings you this story.
Somerville Woman’s Maccas Trip Costs Her Wheels After Drink-Driving Arrest
A fast-food run turned costly for a Somerville woman after she allegedly blew three times over the limit at a Mornington drive-thru. Her vehicle was impounded and she faces drink-driving charges.
Community Raises Alarm Over Horse Welfare in Mt Eliza Ahead of Planned Protest
Fresh concerns over horse welfare at a Mt Eliza property have led to a planned community protest. STPL News investigates the latest claims, past incidents, and RSPCA Victoria’s ongoing response.
Where to Vote on the Mornington Peninsula – Federal Election 2025
Voters on the Mornington Peninsula can cast their ballots on Election Day, Friday 3 May 2024, at polling booths across the region. Early voting options are also available. Here's the full list of locations.
Police Crack Down on Illegal Dirt Bikes and Hoon Behaviour in Pines Reserve
Carrum Downs Police have ramped up patrols in the Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve as part of Operation Rolling Boulder, targeting illegal dirt bike use and hoon behaviour threatening community safety and wildlife.
Letter to the Editor: Democracy on the Doorstep
In a letter to the editor, Rye resident Anne Kruger writes about the Flinders election and the importance of respectful debate, community spirit, and democratic participation.
Man Dies After Being Washed Off Rocks at Cape Schanck
A man has died after being swept into the ocean at Cape Schanck on Anzac Day. Emergency crews launched a search, but the man could not be revived.
Editorial Ethics in the Spotlight as McKenzie Confronts MPNG Ahead of Election
Zoe McKenzie has renewed her criticism of the Mornington Peninsula News Group, accusing the publisher of printing false letters under fake names.
Somerville Highway Patrol Nightshift Crew Nab 20 Offenders in One Week
Somerville Highway Patrol officers processed 20 offending drivers during a single week of nightshift patrols. Offences ranged from drug and drink driving to suspended licences and unroadworthy vehicles. Several cars were impounded as part of the statewide Operation Compass crackdown.
Anzac Day 2025 Services on the Mornington Peninsula
Residents of the Mornington Peninsula are invited to attend Anzac Day services on Friday, 25 April 2025, commemorating the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landing. Thirteen townships across the region will host dawn services, marches, and remembrance ceremonies to honour…
Crash Settlement Finalised, Andrews Now Facing Defamation Action
Ryan Meuleman has secured a confidential payout from Slater & Gordon nearly 10 years after being hit by the former premier’s SUV. The family is now pursuing a defamation case against Daniel and Catherine Andrews.
Zoe McKenzie Doubles Down on Criticism of Mornington Peninsula News Group
Zoe McKenzie has called out the Mornington Peninsula News Group for publishing more fake news, intensifying scrutiny over editorial standards during the election campaign.
Council Votes to Overhaul Climate Emergency Plan Amid Heated Debate
Last night, Mornington Peninsula Shire voted to disassemble its climate emergency plan, prompting public debate and mixed community reactions. Deputy Mayor Paul Pingiaro defended the motion as fiscally responsible, not climate denial.
88-Year-Old Somerville Woman Dies After Fatal Mt Eliza Collision
An 88-year-old woman from Somerville has died after a single-vehicle crash on Wooralla Drive in Mount Eliza. Police are investigating the cause of the collision.
Police Investigate Armed Burglary in Mount Martha
Police are investigating a burglary in Mount Martha on 10 April, where a resident confronted an intruder armed with a weapon. CCTV images have been released as detectives seek public assistance.
Mike Brown Labels Ben Smith a “Con” and Slams Clive Palmer–Teal Preference Deal
In an interview with STPL News, One Nation candidate Mike Brown accused Independent Ben Smith of being insincere and aligned with the Teals and Simon Holmes à Court. Brown also drew comparisons between Holmes à Court and Clive Palmer, labelling both as political “wreckers” amid ongoing campaign disputes.
Liberals Pledge $900 Million for Baxter Rail Line Extension in Dunkley
Nathan Conroy and Zoe McKenzie announce a $900 million Liberal Party pledge to extend the Baxter rail line, aiming to improve transport access to Frankston Hospital and Monash University.
Concerns Mount Over Future of Flinders Pier as Funding Falls Short
Save Flinders Pier campaigners warn the Victorian Government may only partially restore the historic pier, as new documents reveal budget shortfalls and minimal funding spent on actual repairs.
Jason Smart Quits Federal Race, Slams Party Over Teal Preference Deal
Trumpet of Patriots candidate Jason Smart has withdrawn from the Flinders federal race, slamming his party’s decision to preference candidate Ben Smith ahead of conservative contenders.
Police Appeal for Help to Locate Missing Carrum Woman with Dementia
Victoria Police are searching for Judy, 83, who went missing from Carrum after taking a rideshare to Seaford. She has dementia and may be at risk.
Police Appeal for Dash Cam Footage After Serious Collision on Mornington Peninsula Freeway
A high-speed crash near Dromana has prompted police to seek public assistance. Dash cam footage may help investigators piece together how the incident unfolded.
Two Disqualified Drivers Caught Drug Driving Overnight in Seaford and Langwarrin
Somerville Highway Patrol intercepted two disqualified drivers overnight in Seaford and Langwarrin, both testing positive for drugs. Their vehicles were impounded and both will face court.
Fisheries Cuts Threaten Mornington Peninsula Marine Life and Industry
Victorian waters, including the Mornington Peninsula, face growing concern as the State Government moves to significantly cut fisheries compliance roles, sparking warnings of environmental and industry collapse from local leaders and experts.
Backlash Over Mayor’s Comments as Hastings Community Demands Answers
Outrage is growing in Hastings after Mayor Marsh's remarks on the club's closure. Community leaders point to council inaction, unequal funding, and long-standing neglect of the Western Port region.
Somerville Times Edition 022 – Out Now!
The latest Somerville Times (Edition 022) discusses the 2025 Federal Election, community empowerment initiatives, a controversial council rate hike, local sports updates, and concerns over council decisions favouring affluent areas. Support independent journalism!
Mayor Marsh Washes Hands of Hastings Club, Eyes New Use for Building
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Anthony Marsh says council had “little choice” but not to fund the Hastings Club, sparking criticism and reigniting concerns of neglect in the Western Port area.
Liberal Candidate Calls Out “Fake News” Over Published Letter
Liberal candidate Zoe McKenzie has called a local news publication for publishing a letter she claims is filled with false information. The incident highlights the risks of misinformation in the lead-up to the 2025 federal election.
