Flinders Election: A Safe Seat No More?
The 2025 Flinders election is heating up, with incumbent Zoe McKenzie facing challengers Sarah Race and Ben Smith. Discover how shifting voter priorities may reshape this traditional Liberal seat.
STPL News
Unlicensed Motorcyclist Loses Bike After Alleged Drug Driving in Skye
A 50-year-old Dandenong man has lost his motorcycle after allegedly riding under the influence of drugs in Skye. His bike was impounded for 30 days at a cost of $1,115.
41 Caught Drink or Drug Driving in Nepean Highway Blitz
Victoria Police caught 41 motorists driving under the influence during a two-night blitz on Nepean Highway. Officers conducted 4,747 breath tests and intercepted multiple offenders.
$50 Million Road Upgrade Pledge in Frankston ‘Not What It Seems’, Says Nathan Conroy
Liberal Dunkley candidate Nathan Conroy has criticised the federal government’s $50 million road upgrade pledge for Frankston, claiming only $3 million is actually committed.
Police Investigate Sexual Assault on Bus in Dandenong
Victoria Police are investigating a sexual assault on a Route 811 bus in Dandenong on 17 February. Authorities have released images of a suspect and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
A Life Cut Short: The Unsolved Murder of Michele Brown
The unsolved murder of Michele Brown in Frankston remains a haunting mystery. For over 30 years, her family has searched for answers. A $1 million reward is being offered for information that could lead to justice
Struggling with Utility Bills? Here’s How Victorians Can Get Help
Victorians struggling with overdue electricity, gas, or water bills may be eligible for the Utility Relief Grant Scheme, offering up to $650 per utility. Find out who qualifies and how to apply.
Early Poll Results: Flinders Electorate Voting Intentions
STPL News has conducted an early poll on voter intentions in the Flinders electorate ahead of the anticipated 2025 federal election. Discover the current results, methodology, and insights into voter sentiment.
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Southern Peninsula Community Support Centre Needs Urgent Help After Fresh Food Deliveries Cancelled
Due to cancelled deliveries from SecondBite and OzHarvest, SPCSC is facing a fresh food shortage. They need urgent donations of vegetables and financial contributions to support local families. Here's how you can help.
Frankston Public Surgical Centre Reducing Surgery Wait Times in Victoria
The Frankston Public Surgical Centre is playing a key role in Victoria’s efforts to reduce surgery wait times, with urgent procedures now delivered faster than anywhere else in Australia.
Three Men Charged After Firearms Seized in Cranbourne Police Operation
Three men have been charged after Victoria Police seized firearms during Operation Advance in Cranbourne. The trio was arrested after a high-speed pursuit and will face court.
Flinders Federal Election Poll: Have Your Say
If a snap federal election were held tomorrow, who would you vote for in the Flinders electorate? Share your opinion in our latest STPL News poll.
Free Green Waste Weekend Extended for Mornington Peninsula Shire Residents
Mornington Peninsula Shire extends the No Charge Green Waste Weekend from March 28-30, 2025, allowing residents to dispose of green waste for free.
Federal Election: Tensions Rise in Flinders Campaign—Despite No Election Date Yet
The race for the federal seat of Flinders is heating up, with Zoe McKenzie, Ben Smith, and Sarah Race battling for votes—despite no election date yet. Campaign spending, advertising controversies, and political clashes are shaping the contest.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Adjusts Budget Amid McCrae Landslip Costs
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has restructured its budget to absorb the costs of the McCrae landslip, allocating $1.2 million for emergency management and removing the last COVID-19 business assistance package.
Secret Stash of Stolen Goods and Weapons Uncovered in Seaford Business
Victoria Police have uncovered a hidden stash of stolen goods, drugs, and weapons behind a secret door in a Seaford business. A 53-year-old man has been charged and will face Frankston Magistrates’ Court in April.
Kafkaesque Bureaucracy Leaves Hazardous Trees Dangling Over Mornington Peninsula Roads
Mornington Peninsula residents warn of dangerous overhanging trees on Nepean Highway, with fears they could collapse onto traffic. Despite reports to government officials, no action has been taken.
Western Port Craft Expo Returns to Hastings This April
Head down to the Western Port Craft Expo on April 12, 2025! Discover local artisans, hands-on workshops, and fun activities for all ages at Hastings Community Hub.
Man Charged Following Dromana Hit-and-Run Incident
Dromana, VIC – A 36-year-old Dromana man has been charged following an alleged hit-and-run incident that occurred on Sunday night in Dromana. At approximately 9:30 pm on 9 March 2025, a 48-year-old woman from Craigieburn and her dog were crossing…
Honesty Box Bread Shut Down in Mount Martha Following Resident Complaint
A beloved honesty box bread system in Mount Martha has been shut down after a resident’s complaint, with council regulations requiring a costly permit. Locals express frustration over the decision.
Local Councils Join Forces to Make Beaches Safer
Mornington Peninsula and neighbouring councils have launched a new Water Safety Framework to tackle rising drowning rates. Learn how the Beachsafe app and patrolled beaches can help keep swimmers safe.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Boosts Road Maintenance Budget for 2025
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has increased its road maintenance budget for 2025, with 35 roads set for renewal under the Roads to Recovery project. Community feedback will shape future improvements.
Police Arrest 35 in A Single Day During Frankston Crackdown
Police arrested 35 people in a large-scale operation targeting crime, road safety, and water safety in Frankston. Offenders were caught for firearms, burglary, and traffic offences.
Work on Frankston Foreshore Retaining Wall Halted Following Council Intervention
Construction of an unregistered retaining wall on the Frankston foreshore has been halted by the council after backlash from residents. Property owner Gene Neill defended the works, citing recent landslips. The council is now reviewing the situation.
Mark Stoermer Named New CEO of Mornington Peninsula Shire
As STPL News predicted, the new CEO has prior experience with a south-eastern council and has already worked with some of the current councillors and our sources have delivered! Mornington Peninsula Shire has officially named Mark Stoermer as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) following a Special Council Meeting today.
Frankston Neighbourhood Policing Forum: Community Safety Discussion
Frankston residents are invited to take part in an important discussion on community safety at the upcoming Frankston PSA Neighbourhood Policing Forum this Thursday, 6th March 2025.
Council Skinks Ahead with Federal Oversight for Dromana Development
Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has thrown its support behind a federally recommended controlled action to oversee a 250-home development in Dromana.
Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee Festival Celebrates First Peoples’ Culture
The Womin Djeka Balnarring Ngargee festival saw over 2,000 people gather at Emu Plains Reserve to celebrate First Peoples’ culture with performances, workshops, and community activities.
Brad Cox Brings His National Tour to Frankston’s Pier Bandroom
Award-winning country artist Brad Cox is bringing his national tour to Frankston’s Pier Bandroom on 15 March 2025. Fresh off multiple Golden Guitar wins and a new single ‘I’m a Boxer’ dropping 12 March, Cox is set to deliver an unforgettable live show. Read to find out more.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Set to Announce New CEO This Week!
Mornington Peninsula Shire is poised to announce its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) later this week, pending the completion of final background checks. Several sources have indicated that the selected candidate has prior experience with a south-eastern council and he has previously collaborated with some current councillors.
Crime Concerns Grow as McKenzie Engages, While Mercurio Stays on the Defensive
As crime concerns rise across the Mornington Peninsula, Federal MP Zoe McKenzie and her state counterparts are actively engaging with the community, listening to their frustrations, and pushing for immediate action. Meanwhile, State MP Paul Mercurio has faced growing criticism for his lack of visibility on the issue, with many residents questioning his leadership and commitment to real solutions.
Multiple Arrests on Mornington Peninsula Streets Over the Weekend
Victoria Police have made multiple arrests over the weekend in response to separate serious incidents across the Mornington Peninsula, including an alleged kidnapping in Mornington and a violent assault linked to an aggravated burglary in Hastings.
Opening Dialog with Local Police Over Coffee in Somerville
Hastings Police and Neighbourhood Watch hosted 'Coffee with a Cop' in Somerville, fostering open discussions with the community. Learn about the event and the upcoming Emergency Services Open Day at Hastings Foreshore.
Frankston Man Charged After Alleged Assaults and Attempted Carjackings
A 24-year-old man has been charged following multiple alleged assaults and attempted carjackings in Frankston. Police urge witnesses to come forward.
Rosebud Hospital A Key Election Issue in Flinders
Calls for a fully functioning Rosebud Hospital are growing ahead of a Sunday protest, with concerns that Frankston Hospital is too far for southern Mornington Peninsula residents.
Concerns for Missing Man Jack Last Seen on Frankston to Stony Point Train
Victoria Police are seeking public assistance to find Jack, a 22-year-old from Dingley Village, last seen boarding a train at Frankston Station on 19 February, heading towards Stony Point.
Police Seek Public Assistance to Locate Wanted Man Paul Wardle
Victoria Police are searching for Paul Wardle, 45, who is wanted on two warrants for serious assault. Authorities urge the public to report any sightings via Crime Stoppers.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Releases Draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan for Public Consultation
The Mornington Peninsula Shire has released its draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan 2024-2029, focusing on improving wastewater system performance and reducing environmental risks. Public consultation is open until 31st March 2025.
2025 Media Kit – Advertising and Sponsonsorship
Download the STPL News 2025 Media Kit
McCrae Landslide: Evacuated Residents Left Without Financial Aid as Government Remains Silent
Over a month after the McCrae landslide, evacuated residents are still without financial assistance from the Victorian government. As looting continues, displaced families demand urgent action.
Coffee with a Cop: Meet Your Local Police Over a Cuppa in Somerville
Join Victoria Police for Coffee with a Cop on Saturday, 1st March 2025, at Ferguson Plarre Bakehouse, Somerville. A great opportunity to discuss community issues, meet local officers, and connect—especially for those who use Auslan.
The Return of the Bandicoots: Tiny Gardeners Transforming The Briars
The endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot has been reintroduced to The Briars Wildlife Sanctuary in Mount Martha, helping restore local biodiversity and soil health.
930 Illegal Knives Seized from Dandenong Business Linked to Youth Offenders
Victoria Police have seized 930 prohibited weapons from a Dandenong South business allegedly linked to youth offenders. A Toorak man faces charges as authorities crack down on illegal knife distribution across Victoria.
Poll Reveals Strong Support for Scrapping “Acknowledgement of Country” at Council Meetings
A Facebook poll by former Mornington Peninsula Mayor Steve Holland reveals 76% support for removing the Acknowledgement of Country from council meetings. Councillors respond, with unverified claims suggesting a motion may already be in the works.
Community Input Sought for Morce Avenue Sorrento Car Park Expansion
The Mornington Peninsula Shire is seeking public input on four proposed designs to expand the Morce Avenue car park in Sorrento.
Man Charged Over Seaford Hit-and-Run Cyclist Collision in Seaford
A 20-year-old Cranbourne North man has been charged following an alleged hit-and-run in Seaford, leaving a 53-year-old cyclist injured. The accused is set to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court in April.
Duo Arrested After Violent Crime Spree Across Southeast Suburbs
A man and woman have been arrested following a violent crime spree across Melbourne’s southeast, involving home invasions, armed robberies, and assaults. Read the full details here.
Level Up Your Business: Big Tech Power for SMEs
Discover how Shan Rahman and CA are bridging the tech gap for SMEs, offering AI-driven, cloud-based solutions that rival enterprise-grade systems—at a quarter of the cost.
Concerns Falling on Deaf Ears: Residents Demand Action on Crime
Frustrated by rising youth crime, Residents protested outside MP Paul Mercurio’s office. With no response, they demand stricter laws and real action from the government.
Crime Protest Intensifies as Organiser Responds to Paul Mercurio’s Statement
Residents of Hastings, Somerville, and Frankston South protest outside Paul Mercurio MP’s office, demanding stronger action on rising crime. Protest organiser Rowan May criticises Mercurio’s response, citing inaction and lack of engagement.
