Current Issue

tree returns to Mt Eliza Village

Peninsula pushback over ‘overreach’ landslide map

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

RESIDENTS across the peninsula

have been left outraged and baffled after newly proposed mandatory planning rules suddenly labelled thousands of properties as “highly susceptible” to landslides, despite many believing they face no such risk.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire has mapped wide-spread landsliderisk areas across the peninsula after councillors approved on 17 November to advance an interim erosion management overlay – a planning control aimed at managing development on land most prone to landslides.

The move followed an urgent directive from state Planning Minister Sonya Kilkenny to prepare an amendment to the Mornington Peninsula planning scheme that would form the new control.

The overlay is intended to cover areas classified as “highly susceptible” to landslip risks - around 33,000 lots, roughly 27,000 of them residentialthat are not already subject to existing erosion overlays.

The planning control was a key recommendation of the board of inquiry into the McCrae landslide in January that saw a house slide down the escarpment, which an inquiry found was caused by a burst water main.

Mornington MP Chris Crewther, who has called on the Planning Minister to urgently explain why 27,0000 Mornington Peninsula properties

were suddenly flagged as being a landslide risk, described the move as an “overreach”, causing many residents to feel “deeply confused,” with many properties having “zero to no landslide risk”.

Crewther said the overlay had zoned everything from 30cm retaining walls to asphalted flat residential streets and built-up piles of garden rubbish, with flat land marked as “red blobs on the map”.

“The State Minister has the final say and should not approve this in my view in its current form,” he said. He raised the issue in Parliament on 2 December saying thousands of residents had received an unexpected text message from the shire, issued on behalf of the Department of Transport and Planning about the new landslide planning controls, pending state approval.

“Even my own property is affected as well,” he told Parliament.

“But there are many properties right across the peninsula. They want answers now from the Minister and they want this overreach to be put back.”

He urged the minister to provide immediate explanation about the “basis, intent, implications and approval process” behind the new measure.

Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said, “It’s important to remember that we were directed by the state Planning Minister to implement the interim erosion management overlay using the information that the shire had on hand”.

Continued Page 11

CHRISTMAS ON THE RHINE

Amsterdam to Basel or vice versa

8 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 8 GUIDED TOURS SET SAIL : NOV-DEC 2026; 2027

Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as you journey through storybook villages. Admire the twinkling lights of Cologne and revel in the merry atmosphere of the Rhine Valley, as storefront displays, wine cellars and markets embrace the holiday season. This eight-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer.

From $6,795pp in Standard Stateroom

From $8,095pp in Veranda Stateroom

AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS

DORDRECHT,

COLOGNE, GERMANY

KOBLENZ & RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY

MANNHEIM & SPEYER, GERMANY

STRASBOURG, FRANCE

BREISACH, GERMANY

8 BASEL, SWITZERLAND

Arbiter clears mayor as conduct complaint dismissed

Raia Flinos raia@mpnews.com.au

MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire

mayor Cr Anthony Marsh has been cleared of any wrongdoing after an arbiter dismissed a councillor conduct complaint application over Marsh’s decision to rule three motions out of order at council meetings in June.

The application was lodged by councillors David Gill, Kate Roper, Max Patton, Michael Stephens, and Patrick Binyon on 27 August. It alleged Marsh breached the Councillor Code of Conduct when he ruled Gill and Patton’s motions out of order and subsequently ruled their dissent motions out of order.

The blocked motions asked the council to work on developing a new climate resilience plan, running community engagement on climate policy, and preparing detailed reports on recent changes to Community Investment Funding, including effects on arts and First Nations programs.

Marsh blocked these motions before debate, saying they were effectively attempts to reopen or change earlier council decisions, which means they had to follow rules for revoking or amending past resolutions.

In a written decision released on December 1, arbiter J A Silver found Marsh acted within his power as chairperson and followed governance rules accordingly when he blocked the motions.

Silver examined how the three June motions fit under clause 22 of the governance rules, which deals with attempts to overturn or change previous council decisions, and clause 16, which

sets out the powers of the chairperson to determine whether a motion is acceptable.

Under clause 22, a motion which seeks to revisit, alter or reverse an earlier decision must follow a set process. It must be signed by at least two councillors and one of them must have originally supported the earlier decision.

In this case, the arbiter agreed that all three motions asked for new debates on matters the council had already decided. While the motions did not explicitly call for a reversal of these decisions, the arbiter found they would effectively reopen the council’s previous decisions on climate change, arts and culture funding, and First Nations work. Be-

cause of this, clause 22 applied.

Clause 16 gives the mayor, as chairperson, the responsibility to not accept a motion which is vague, ambiguous, or outside the powers of council. That includes deciding whether a motion is a revocation or amendment attempt, even if worded indirectly.

Silver said he found it unusual that despite their clear intention, neither clause 16 nor 22 explicitly empowered the chairperson to rule out noncompliant revocation matters. When interpreting the governance rules, however, Silver said he was satisfied that clause 16 includes the power to rule out motions that do not comply with clause 22.

Silver therefore found that Marsh

used clause 16 appropriately when he determined the motions fell under clause 22 and therefore did not meet the required criteria.

“Given my interpretation of the Governance Rules, I am satisfied that [Marsh] acted within power, and that none of the three motions qualified for consideration,” Silver wrote in his decision.

Marsh said the arbiter’s decision aligned with government and legal advice he had already received.

“The Arbiter dismissed the application seeking a finding of misconduct, confirming the same position that was provided in the governance and legal advice ahead of the June meetings, and again by the organisation in July,”

Marsh said.

“I acted on that advice and in accordance with the Governance Rules, and the Arbiter reached the same conclusion. I will continue to chair council meetings consistently, transparently and without fear or favour. My focus remains on getting on with the job and delivering outcomes for our community.”

Gill told The News “As discussed with the arbiter, arbitration was the only avenue we had to clarify the powers of a mayor to reject councillor Notices of Motion and dissent motions”.

“This was a complex legal matter, dealt with on the papers with minimal legal costs and without a formal hearing, as all parties had agreed.

“It was seeking, in part, a ruling on the chair’s powers to deny motions that had already been approved by the CEO, the controlling authority for agenda items coming to council meetings.

“The decision has major ramifications for council meetings across the entire local government sector, directly impacting the ability of elected councillors to represent their communities in debate.

“Although we are disappointed with the outcome, we accept the decision which was based on present governance regulations.”

A shire spokesperson said now that the complaint has been dismissed it is behind them.

At

with

and

or more

little

can trust.

Reach out today to see how

“We look forward to progressing the work with our community to deliver on the improvements we’re making,” the spokesperson said.

“We will not be making further comment on this matter.”

CR ANTHONY Marsh (left) and Cr David Gill (right). Pictures: Supplied

Annual ‘toy run’ takes off

THE Peninsula Aero Club has held its annual toy run with over 800 toys donated by the local community in support of families in challenging circumstances at Christmas.

The gifts will be supplied to Food for All and Western Port Community Support group who will distribute them.

The day was fun all around with the Holden Enthusiasts Club and the Antique Aeroplane Association for supporting the day.

Live music was donated by Jon Burstow and the Catalina Cruisers Band, while visitors enjoyed a free sausage sizzle.

A band of PAC members and volunteers ensured the day was enjoyed by all.

Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh and Paul Mercurio MLC, both addressed the crowd to thank those involved for their efforts.

Picture: Ian Johnson

Council backs new disaster resilience plan

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

COUNCIL has signed off on a new Community Disaster Resilience Plan, aiming to lift preparedness and strengthen how the community responds to future emergencies.

The plan, adopted alongside a Year One Action Plan at the council’s 2 December meeting, follows community consultation held in April, May and September and sets out a wholeof-community approach to building resilience.

Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said the plan recognised the crucial role council played during crises.

“Local government is often the first and most consistent point of contact in times of crisis. This plan reflects our commitment to working alongside our community, preparing for, supporting, and coordinating response efforts, as well as advocating for those most affected,” he said.

The plan outlines how council will help reduce disaster risks by coordinating preparedness efforts, strengthening partnerships, improving communication and education around emergency readiness, and for residents to take an active role in their own resilience.

It brings together community feedback, internal consultation and bestpractice actions from across Victoria into a single framework supporting communities before, during and after emergencies.

It will complement the Municipal Emergency Management Plan and be promoted and implemented across the shire.

According to a shire report, “Whilst

there are more localised township plans elsewhere in the state, it is believed this is the first Mornington Peninsula Shire-wide, community plan that addresses actions for the community before, during and after an emergency”.

Cr Andrea Allen successfully moved an amended motion so that the objectives of the plan were “adjusted to reflect advice from the Australian Institute for Disaster Resilience”.

This included that “the plan aligns with the existing National Disaster Risk Reduction Framework and the emerging national priorities contained in Australia’s National Climate Risk Assessment, which recognises that local councils are on the front line of managing community resilience, climate-related risks and community impacts”.

A report will now be brought back to council by July next year to update the progress of creating emergency relief hubs and/or centres evenly across the Mornington Peninsula, along with a broader review of the plan.

Allen noted the shire had three designated emergency hubs and three relief centres though none were based on the southern peninsula.

“There are some good things in this plan, so we don’t want to hold it up especially as we come towards bushfire season,” she said.

Cr David Gill said there was a concern that the community perceived council as not treating climate risk as a priority.

“We see it as hugely important part of what we do and I don’t think our community is seeing that at the moment,” he said, adding there should be equal weighting to both climate risk and disaster resilience.

Journalists: Brendan Rees: Email: brendan@mpnews.com.au

Raia Flinos: Email: raia@mpnews.com.au

Brodie Cowburn: Email: brodie@mpnews.com.au

Photographers: Gary Sissons, Yanni

Advertising Sales: Bruce Stewart 0409 428 171

Real Estate Account Manager: Ricky Thompson 0425 867 578

Production/Graphic design: Marcus Pettifer, Dannielle Espagne

Publisher: Cameron McCullough

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS: Craig MacKenzie, Peter McCullough, Stuart McCullough.

ADDRESS: Mornington Peninsula News Group PO Box 588 Hastings 3915

Email: team@mpnews.com.au Web: mpnews.com.au

DEADLINE FOR NEXT ISSUE: 1PM ON THURSDAY 18 DECEMBER 2025 NEXT ISSUE PUBLICATION DATE: TUESDAY 23 DECEMBER 2025

Shire launches rates and services review as community input sought

Brendan Rees

brendan@mpnews.com.au

AN extensive council review of differential rates and service charges could see ratepayers face $41 extra in waste fees per year, while around 2500 retirement village homes are proposed to receive $181 average reductions next year.

The Mornington Peninsula Shire is reviewing its rating strategy as part of preparations for the 2026-27 budget “to make sure the system stays up to date and reflects how properties are used across the shire”.

A “Ratings Strategy Review Options Paper” was released this month outlining several proposed changes with community consultation now open until 15 February.

Under the differential rating, council can shift part of the rate burden from some groups of ratepayers to others through different “rates in the dollar” for each class of property.

However, a shire report confirmed, “It does not influence the total amount of money to be raised; only the share of revenue contributed by each property”.

In addition to general rates, changes are also being proposed for service rates and charges. Under the options paper, weekly garbage collections could jump from $433 to $474 per year for households with bins, while properties that don’t receive waste collection would pay $130 instead of $433.

Properties that may not receive waste collection include bathing boxes, vacant land, commercial/industrial, berths, and farms.

In explaining the change, the paper

stated, “a review of direct and indirect waste costs, has resulted in an opportunity to apply a waste service charge for direct collection services and a charge for indirect waste services”.

Council is also considering introducing a discounted differential rate for 2514 retirement village properties at 80 per cent of the general rate, resulting in an average rate reduction of $181 per year, which “acknowledges the unique nature of retirement communities, and the services provided within the village”.

General residential properties however could see a small $4 increase on average. Council is also proposing to remove the annual due date for full payment of rates and offer four instalments, making it easier for ratepayers to manage payments.

Councillors unanimously voted to endorse the rates options paper for community consultation at their 2 December meeting.

An option was however removed of combining a farmhouse and farmland into a single differential rate at 51 per cent, excluding commercial or industrial improvements.

Currently, farmland receives a 35 per cent reduction, while the farmhouse curtilage (an area of land around a house) of up to 2000 square metres is rated at the full general rate.

Cape Schank farmer Simon Stuart, whose family has grazed beef cattle on their 900-acre property for 90 years, said while the council had backed down from this option, he noted recent property valuations – as high as 71 per cent in one year – had caused his farm rates to soar despite a 15 per cent decrease in the agricultural rate over the past five years.

“An increase from the agriculture rate from 35 per cent to 51 per cent, as proposed, would hike our farm rates by 45 per cent, on top of any increased property valuation the council may make,” he said.

“Our farm doesn’t generate any more revenue when the council increases the valuation. What it does do is reduce the profitability and therefore the viability of farming.”

All community submissions will be handed to councillors following community input to inform adoption of the updated Rating and Revenue Plan ahead of the 2026-27 budget.

Submitters will be given the opportunity to speak for up to three minutes in the week starting 9 February or 16 February.

A shire report stated that the options presented in the rating strategy review “do not change the revenue for council, rather they look to ensure the rate distribution reflect principles of equity, transparency and fairness across all property classifications”.

Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh said, “We’re reviewing the way differential rates and waste service charges are applied to make sure the system remains fair and reflects the different ways land is used across the peninsula”.

“We want to check in with our community before anything is finalised, and we encourage everyone to look at the options and let us know what matters to them. Your feedback will help guide council’s decision-making.”

Deputy mayor Cr Paul Pinjiaro acknowledged that rates were the “biggest single bill for many households and businesses” and this “starts the conversation about rate equity”.

Dromana Pier major rebuild underway

Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au

DROMANA Pier has been completely gutted, leaving only wooden piles in the water, as construction of a new, modern pier officially gets underway.

The 180-metre pier, originally built in the 1860s and reconstructed in the 1950s, has been closed to the public since October to allow for demolition of the old structure and the start of rebuilding.

Parks Victoria is overseeing the project having assigned Duratec Limited to undertake the works, following community input. The rebuild aims to create an accessible visitor experience while preserving the pier’s iconic coastal charm.

The new pier will feature solid timber decking, replacing the existing concrete, with seating along the pier offering panoramic views of the bay, Arthurs Seat, and surrounding Mornington Peninsula landscape.

Parks Victoria said the pier would meet contemporary accessibility and safety standards. Stairs leading down to the water would also allow for swimming access, while a fixed lower-level landing will continue to support boating, fishing, and other water-based activities such as standup paddleboarding and kayaking.

The design also takes environmental factors into account, with consideration of sea level rise, storm events, and wave climate to ensure the pier’s resilience for decades.

Dromana Association president Simon Brooks said, “We’re pleased they’re doing it and it’s ten years past its used-by date, close to 20 years past its design life so we’re happy it’s being built,” he said.

“Again, we are disappointed they didn’t take it into deep water or at least do a business case. They refused to do it.”

Brooks said the benefits of extended the pier into deeper water included allowing bigger vessels and ferries to dock, as well as recreational use and fishing.

During construction, the George

A Bishop Reserve carpark will be closed to accommodate a site compound, with alternative parking available at Dromana Foreshore Reserve and along Point Nepean Rd.

The foreshore and beach area near the pier has been fenced off while pedestrian access to the foreshore

remains available via a detour and a marine exclusion zone has been established to protect the public. Visitors are encouraged to use nearby Rosebud and Rye Piers while the build is under way.

WORKS progressing at Dromana Pier. Picture: Adam Richmond

Police patrol with Brendan Rees

Police vehicle rammed in Mornington

MORNINGTON Crime Investigation

Unit detectives are appealing for public assistance following a ramming in Mornington on Friday night (12 December).

Police were called to reports of a suspicious loiter at a unit complex on Fleet Street about 7.40pm on Friday 12 December.

Officers attended and located a stolen black Toyota Land Cruiser utility in the driveway of the property.

It is understood the utility rammed the parked police vehicle multiple times before it became wedged in the property’s driveway.

The unknown male driver exited the vehicle and fled north bound on Fleet Street.

During the incident, the two male senior constables retreated to take cover away from the vehicle, both sustaining minor injuries that required medical treatment the following day.

The police vehicle and the property sustained significant damage.

The offender remains outstanding at this stage and the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

Knives, fake guns, $170K in drugs

MORNINGTON Peninsula police have arrested nine people and seized more than $170,000 worth of illicit drugs, as well as fake firearms in a two-month operation targeting drug trafficking ahead of schoolies celebrations.

Detectives from the Mornington Peninsula Divisional Response Unit executed eight warrants across Capel Sound, Carrum Downs, Dromana, Frankston South, Mornington, Rosebud, and Rye between late September and the end of November.

Police allege some of the drugs including cocaine, ketamine, MDMA, GHB, methylamphetamine, and cannabis were destined for schoolies on the peninsula but were intercepted before reaching young people.

Among the arrests was a 24-yearold Dromana man at a Beach St home on 18 November. Police seized a commercial quantity of cocaine valued at $70,000, dozens of MDMA pills, three prohibited knives, prescription medication, ketamine, 1,4-Butaendiol, and cash.

“It will be alleged in court that the man was trafficking drugs in the Dromana, Rosebud and Rye areas and was seeking to supply drugs to schoolies,” police said.

He was charged with trafficking and possessing ecstasy and bailed to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court

seized in peninsula bust

on December 10.

The operation also saw two men aged 25 and 55 arrested at a Rye home on 23 October where police found what they allege was cocaine, GHB, methylamphetamine, ketamine, ecstasy, cannabis, four imitation firearms, a machete, and cash.

“It will be alleged the pair was trafficking in the Dromana, Rosebud and

Rye areas,” police said.

The younger man was charged with trafficking and possessing drugs of dependence and possessing prohibited weapons. He was bailed to appear at Frankston Magistrates’ Court on November 17 and will reappear later this month.

The older man was charged with cultivating and possessing a commer-

cial quantity of cannabis and will next appear at Dromana Magistrates’ Court on 22 January.

A 45-year-old man was also arrested for allegedly trafficking methylamphetamine in Carrum Downs.

He was charged with trafficking and possessing a drug of dependence and committing an indictable offence while on bail. Police said a warrant is

now out for his arrest after he allegedly failed to appear in court.

Two men, aged 23 and 26, were arrested in Frankston South and charged with trafficking cocaine and possessing an imitation firearm. They are due back at Frankston Magistrates’ Court in the New Year.

Police also swooped on a cannabis crop house that was dismantled at a York St property in Rosebud. A 45-year-old man was charged with cultivating a narcotic plant and possessing cannabis.

A 56-year-old Mornington woman was issued a caution for allegedly possessing cannabis.

In total, police seized drugs worth $172,000.

Victoria Police acting detective sergeant Laura Davenport from the divisional response unit said drug dealing had far-reaching consequences, creating victims and fuelling other crimes.

“We will continue to target those who choose to cause harm, and we remain committed to making our streets safer,” she said.

“Anyone who sees drug activity in their neighbourhood is urged to report it. This can be done anonymously via Crime Stoppers, but it can prove invaluable for police.”

Road blitz catches teens with fake gun, drink drivers

By Brendan Rees

A PENINSULA road-safety blitz during schoolies celebrations has led to multiple charges, including teens caught with an imitation firearm, as police target risky driving across coastal towns.

The major operation across Rosebud, Rye, and Sorrento from 27 November to 7 December saw police conduct 2500 breath tests, catching 14 drivers and seven suspended or disqualified motorists. Officers impounded ten vehicles, issued seven infringement notices and intercepted 110 cars. Police also made 474 checks on licenced venues. Among those charged were several teenagers including four males aged 17 and 18 with the vehicle’s owner allegedly being found in possession

of an imitation firearm after being intercepted in a car in Tootgarook.

The 17-year-old driver from the eastern suburbs was charged with driving with a disqualified learner’s permit. He will face court while another 18-year-old passenger from Reservoir was given a cannabis caution. The vehicle was also impounded.

An 18-year-old man was charged with driving in a manner dangerous causing serious injury after an 18-year-old man fell from the roof of his car in St Andrews Beach.

He suffered serious head injuries and was taken to hospital. The alleged driver was bailed to appear in Dromana Magistrates’ Court on 22 January.

The teen driver was also charged with reckless conduct endangering

life, and drive in a manner dangerous and careless driving.

Several drink drivers were also caught during the blitz including a 51-year-old woman from Rye who allegedly crashed her Volkswagen ute into a building before returning a positive roadside breath test of 0.184 - more than three-and-a-half times the legal limit. The incident is being investigated.

A 24-year-old Beaumaris man was also caught more than three times the legal drink-drive limit after leaving a bar in Sorrento. His vehicle was impounded, and he will be summons to court.

A 27-year-old Mount Martha woman will also face court after she allegedly blew 0.156 when she was tested at a booze bus. Her licence was suspended, with her car impounded at

$1225 towing costs.

During another intercept, a 65-yearold Rosebud man allegedly returned a reading of 0.130 after leaving a pub. His vehicle was impounded and his licence suspended.

In another case, an 18-year-old Hallam man allegedly drove to fast-food restaurants with four teenagers on the roof of his car. He is expected to be charged with careless driving and driving in a manner dangerous.

The operation also saw three drivers each having their license suspended for six months with $611 fines for low-range drink driving.

Victoria Police said they would continue to have a highly visible presence in popular locations throughout the summer months, with local police supported by state-based specialist’s units including Highway Patrol, Pub-

lic Order Response Team, Mounted Branch and Dog Squad, to help keep residents and visitors safe.

Mornington Peninsula divisional response unit acting detective sergeant Laura Davenport said with Christmas approaching quickly, police were pleading with motorists to make better decisions before getting behind the wheel.

“Vehicles, and drugs and alcohol do not mix. It’s frustrating and frightening to see drivers still flouting the law,” she said.

“Road trauma caused by impaired drivers is 100 per cent preventable. It simply does not have to happen. We don’t want to have to tell another family that their loved one won’t be coming home.”

POLICE arrest a 24-year-old Dromana man for alleged possession of various drugs. Picture: Supplied

Picture: Gary Sissons

Peninsula Link to stay slow for summer

Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au

THE speed limit along a large stretch of Peninsula Link will continue to remain at a reduced 80kph until at least February.

The reduced limit coincides with the peninsula’s busy summer period that sees hundreds of thousands of visitors using the main arterial into the peninsula.

A statement from Service Stream Limited, responsible for the management of Peninsula Link, seen by The News said “While the resurfacing works carried out to date have largely been completed, the final layer of specialised asphalt has not yet been applied”.

“This type of asphalt requires both warmer temperatures and dry conditions to set correctly and achieve maximum durability.

“The weather in November has not been consistently warm or dry enough to undertake this work within an appropriate timeframe.

“To avoid disruption to the peninsula over the summer school holiday period, the project will not return until February 2026.

“Until we can place the final surface, there are a number of bumps in the surface on the approach and departure from bridge decks, this coupled with temporary linemarking, requires a temporary speed limit of 80km/hr which will remain in place until crews return to place the final surface, and you may notice a rough

finish to the road.

“ Once the final asphalt layer is complete, the road surface should be even and smooth, and the speed limit will be returned to 100km/hr.”

The long-running roadworks have attracted the ire of residents with motorists directed off Peninsula Link and onto surrounding roads. The roadworks have created traffic chaos and raised questions why Peninsula Link

is being resurfaced, despite being in good condition, while other state government roads languish (Parents frustrated over roadworks gridlock, The News 4/11/25).

Peninsula Link was built under a 25-year public private partnership (PPP) contract, also known as a DBFOM (design, build, finance, operate, maintain), where the government makes fixed quarterly payments to

freeway consortium Southern Way regardless of actual traffic volume (Peninsula Link finally up and running, The News 22/1/13).

Southern Way appointed Service Stream Limited to operate and maintain Peninsula Link under another 25-year agreement.

Mornington MP Chris Crewther has expressed his frustration, writing on social media “I’m as frustrated as

many of you about the ongoing Peninsula Link mess. It’s been one of the top issues of contact to my office”.

“I’ve been told - but can’t verify as I’m told nothing by the state Labor government - that the road under Stage 1 wasn’t fully sealed by the extended 15 November deadline (despite only needing around one more day’s work), and that is why the 80kph signs are still up.”

SPEED reductions will be in place on Peninsula Link until at least February. Picture: Yanni

Welcome TO THE WORLD

JAGGER

Parents: Brittany & Jake

Birth date: 29.11.2025

Birth weight: 4127gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

Parents: Sona

Birth date: 2.12.2025

Birth weight: 4060gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

Parents: Monica & Damian

Birth date: 8.12.2025

Birth weight: 4140gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

Parents: Madi & Haden

Birth date: 9.12.2025

Birth weight: 3090gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

Parents: Beck & Aaron

Birth date: 30.11.2025

Birth weight: 3430gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

Parents: Kaylee & Lachlan

Birth date: 9.12.2025

Birth weight: 2780gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

Parents: Kara & Rick

Birth date: 8.12.2025

Birth weight: 2590gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

Parents: Cassandra & Cassius

Birth date: 9.12.2025

Birth weight: 3300gms

Born at: Frankston Hospital

McClelland announces winner of sculpture award

MCCLELLAND has announced Michael

Sibel as the winner of the inaugural Maquette: Sculpture Award for his work Two Parts (2025), a patinated bronze sculpture measuring 40 x 35 x 35 cm. This new $20,000 acquisitive award, generously supported by celebrated Australian artist Rick Amor, honours sculptural skill and expression and will see the winning work enter the McClelland collection.

Chosen from an impressive pool of 252 entries and 62 finalists, Two Parts captivated the 2025 judge, artist John Meade with its clarity, conceptual depth and refined execution.

“Michael Sibel’s patinated bronze maquette, Two Parts, was a clear standout for me as judge of the inaugural 2025 Maquette: Sculpture Award at McClelland,” said Meade.

“As the title suggests, it is a two-part companion piece: at first glance the pair appear to be a mirror double of one sliced into two, as if they could lock back together. But this is not the case.

As the artist statement accompanying the work explained, the two interdependent forms are “distinct yet incomplete without one another.”

With the body embedded, the forms carry within them the sculptural tradition of volume in modern art from Jean Arp to Martin Puryear.

“At the heart of this work is the relationship between two interdependent forms—distinct yet incomplete without one another. Their interaction becomes a meditation on connection: how we hold space for one another, where we meet, resist, and rest,” said Sibel.

“The tension and balance between them reflect the complexity of human relationships—simultaneously intimate and autonomous.”

The Maquette: Sculpture Award celebrates sculptural imagination at its most distilled. Finalists were selected by artist Lisa Roet and McClelland’s Artistic and Executive Director Lisa Byrne, who said:

“The Maquette: Sculpture Award is a celebration of the sculptor’s imagination at its most distilled. We’re proud to support artists working in this vital medium and to welcome a new generation of sculptural ideas into the McClelland collection.”

MILAD

LIAM

RYDER REZA

ELOWEN (WINNIE)

CHARLOTTE CHRISTINE

MAHALIA

WELLS

Photos: Yanni

MICHAEL Sibel as the winner of the inaugural Maquette: Sculpture Award for his work Two Parts.

Picture: Supplied

Near-flat land deemed to be landslide risk

Continued from Page 1

“We know that there are some areas of land that have been identified by an external firm that should not be included, and I would expect that these areas are identified and removed soon.”

Among property owners affected is Martin Scanlon, who received notice stating his Tyabb home was identified with a 1.5sqm slip zone at the front and a small section at the rear, despite being on flat, stable terrain.

He said it made no sense and was a “complete overreach and a complete reaction to McCrae”.

“It’s just ridiculous, particularly given they are using a 2012 map, and they haven’t actually come out and done a survey, they haven’t been on-site,” he told The News

“They’re not actually following the board of inquiry guidelines, where one of the guidelines was to specify in their overlay whether the risk was low, medium or high and they’ve done none - they’ve just lumped 33,000 properties into the overlay which affects around 40 percent of the residences on the peninsula.”

Scanlon was also alarmed at what it might mean for property values and insurance saying, “I think the Minister just devalued 40 per cent of the peninsula – it’s not ok”.

A Rosebud resident said he discovered his home was classified within a landslip zone

despite having a gentle slope and never being subject to flooding.

“It’s a small raise, less than a metre and there’s a retaining wall in front of it,” the resident, who asked not to be named, said.

“We haven’t had any problems for 20 years and we have never been flooded even when the rain has poured down in our driveway, which strangely enough, isn’t in the overlay.”

Another resident Steve said it was “very absurd” that a four-square metre area on his Somerville property was zoned as susceptible to landslip which he labelled as “just crazy” as a “small area couldn’t possibly be subject to landslip with just a half a metre slope on the area itself”.

“The data analysis has failed in my view.”

According to the overlay map, about half to two thirds of the Mornington racecourse has also been marked in the overlay.

The News were not supportive of the proposed overlay and did not wish to proceed with it, but the decision ultimately came down to senior management. It was then put before councillors at their unsched uled public meeting, where all voted in favour except Cr Andrea Allen.

The Minister has until 1 January to respond to Crewther’s question raised in Parliament.

MORNINGTON MP Chris Crewther with homeowner

Holiday-goers urged to stay alert to fire risks

AS HOLIDAY-goers head to the Mornington Peninsula this summer, fire authorities are urging both locals and visitors to stay alert to heightened fire risks across the region.

The peninsula is vulnerable during periods of hot, dry weather due to many popular beaches, campgrounds, and parks being close to bushland, reserves, and open grass areas.

Although parts of Victoria have experienced above average rainfall recently, the bureau is forecasting hotter and drier conditions heading into late December and January 2026. Fire authorities warn that these conditions can quickly dry out vegetation, increasing the risk of dangerous grass and bushfires.

CFA Chief Officer Jason Heffernan is asking that those visiting the peninsula be prepared and stay informed.

“You may be travelling to an unfamiliar area and it’s important to understand the fire risk of your holiday location. Now is not the time to become complacent,” Heffernan said. He said grassfires can move at speeds of up to 25 kms per hour, faster than a person can run, and can jump highways under the right conditions.

“Visitors should learn about the area they are travelling to and monitor the Fire Danger Ratings every day throughout summer,” Heffernan said.

This message comes after significant early season fire activity across

parts of Victoria, particularly in the northwest and northeast, and is a reminder that fire safety is a shared responsibility.

“We have already seen some large grassfires this season, Victorians must stay vigilant, have a fire plan in place and be and ready to act,” Heffernan said.

There has been recent growth across woodlands and roadside reserves which has created unbroken lengths of dried grass, therefore increasing the chance of roadside fires.

“Bushfires and rural grassfires do impact built up areas, so it really is everyone’s responsibility to be fire ready,” Heffernan said.

“It is also important not to drive if you can see smoke or fire. Thick smoke will make it hard to see and make accidents more likely.”

All Victorians are encouraged to download the VicEmergency app for real-time updates, check the fire danger ratings every day, reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas on ‘extreme’ fire days, and avoid travelling to any high-risk area on ‘catastrophic’ days.

Stay alert, stay informed, and enjoy a safe holiday on the peninsula.

For more safety advice before and during travel, please visit the CFA website here: www.cfa.vic.gov.au/ plan-prepare/before-and-during-afire/leave-early/staying-safe-whenyou-travel.

Grants to boost local food security

SOUTHERN Peninsula Community Support (SPCS) and Capel Sound Community Hub (CSCH) have been awarded grants to tackle food insecurity, totalling $50,000 - just in time to spread some Christmas cheer for families in need.

The funding, provided through Chobani Australia’s The Big Difference program, will help grassroots organisations expand services, innovate programs, and strengthen community resilience.

SPCS received $30,000 to upgrade its pantry and kitchen, supporting more

than 2000 local families.

CEO Jeremy Maxwell said each month they provide food and material aid to over 1000 people.

“Every week, our case workers work with those at risk of homelessness, and our outreach teams work with people who are homeless. Upgrading our pantry and kitchen will give those people an opportunity to be nourished and connected back into those who care,” he said.

CSCH was awarded $20,000 for a garden expansion and a five-daya-week on-site pantry providing

fresh fruits and vegetables to one of Melbourne’s most disadvantaged communities.

Launched in August 2025, The Big Difference program aims to create lasting impact in food security, strengthening the capacity of local organisations to provide sustainable, communitydriven solutions.

According to Chobani Australia, 503,000 households in Victoria regularly skip meals, and more than 412,000 children live in homes where food runs out before pay arrives, these groups are on the front line of a growing crisis.

CAPEL Sound Community Hub manager Isobel Parker, Chobani CEO Hamdi Ulukaya, and board secretary Heather Barton.

Picture: Supplied

Moorooduc students raise funds to support pet charity

STUDENTS at Moorooduc Primary School held their annual Moorooduc Market on 3 December and raised approximately $2000 for charity.

The Grade 5/6 students worked alongside Grade 3/4 and designed, refined, marketed and produced a wide range of items, including key rings, snow globes, and tree decorations.

The students confidently interacted with customers and were able to enjoy the experience of selling the products they had produced.

The school said they were incredibly proud of the students’ hard work, teamwork, and entrepreneurial spirit.

The money raised went towards Milly’s Search, Trap and Reunite, a charity which helps reunite lost dogs with their families. They are a small team who work tirelessly to help find lost pets without any charge to the owner.

“We all do it for nothing,” Tracey Kelly, one of the volunteers, said. “So, getting money from the community, it totally keeps us going and otherwise, we certainly wouldn’t be able to do this on our own. We’re not a corporation; we’re just two regular people.”

They understand that people’s pets can be their lives and that not everyone who loses their pet is in the financial position to hire a pet detective or the equipment necessary.

“If we didn’t have the community and everyone on board helping with sightings and putting up posters, and donating, we wouldn’t be able to do this,” Kelly said.

She said they are incredibly thankful for the students’ contributions.

“We are so grateful for their support, and we just can’t thank them enough from the bottom of our hearts,” Kelly said.

“This will go into helping us help other people.”

LARGEST RANGE OF SKYLIGHTS ON THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA

SHERRI Johnston (Milly’s), Isobel, teacher Mel Lucas, Harry, Tracey Kelly (Milly’s), and Principal Andrew Wisken. Picture: Yanni

Disability support finds new home after fire

AFTER a devastating fire destroyed its Moorooduc offices, a disability support service is breathing a sigh of relief as it prepares to move into a new purpose-built headquarters in Somerville.

The move comes after the June blaze at the Coolstores facility on Moorooduc Hwy forced staff to work remotely for months, disrupting operations but not dampening the organisation’s commitment to supporting people with disabilities across the Mornington Peninsula.

The new Somerville Central location is currently an empty shell but will soon be transformed into a modern, purpose-built home for the organisation, marking a fresh start after the unexpected loss of their previous offices.

Alongside the relocation the organisation, formerly named Focus Individualised Support Services, officially rebranded as Doable this month, which was marked with a celebration attended by board members, staff, families, and the people the organisation supports.

The new name reflects the organisation’s mission: empowering people with cognitive impairments to achieve their goals, no matter the challenges.

“For more than half a century, our organisation has evolved, expanded and overcome extraordinary challenges - but our belief has never changed: if someone has a goal, our job is to make it doable,” Doable CEO Toni Stewart said.

“This new name doesn’t just de-

DOABLE staff celebrate the rebranding of its disability service.

Picture: Supplied

scribe what we do. It describes who we are.”

Stewart said while “losing our home was heartbreaking,” it also “reminded us of who we are: adaptable, determined and deeply committed to the people we support”.

“The new office, and our new identity, symbolise a rebirth. We are literally rising from the ashes stronger than ever.”

The organisation, founded in 1972,

has a long history on the Mornington Peninsula, originally known as The Kindilan Society and later as FocusLife and Focus Individualised Support Services. Across every iteration, the mission has remained the same: helping people with disabilities live meaningful, self-directed lives.

This year has also seen the organisation strengthen its foundations amid sector-wide challenges, including workforce shortages, shifting NDIS

policies, and financial pressures.

A governance restructure has separated housing (SDA) and support services (SIL) into distinct entities, overseen by a new holding company, Kindilan Holdings, ensuring sustainable operations and continued participant choice and independence.

“This restructure and rebrand position us to thrive in a rapidly changing environment while preserving participant choice, independence and

safeguarding,” Stewart said.

“Doable gives us a fresh, contemporary and person-first identity that reflects our commitment to flexible, participant-centred support.”

A defining feature of the new brand is Doable’s logo: two thumbs up with arms crossed is “a distinctive gesture that symbolises positivity, pride and the certainty that something is possible”.

Brendan Rees

Rate hike for vacant retail spaces proposed

OWNERS of vacant retail spaces in Frankston’s CBD could soon face big rate increases.

Frankston Council has proposed a new differential rate for property owners of vacant retail space. Earlier this year it implemented a differential rate on owners of vacant lots within the Frankston Metropolitan Activity Centre and along Nepean Highway.

The proposal was tentatively approved at council’s meeting last week, with community consultation the next step to get underway. Former Frankston mayor Kris Bolam said that change is designed to reduce the vacancy rate of Frankston buildings.

“Our vacant FMAC and Nepean Highway land rate introduced this year has already helped shift underused land back into development and productive use. Property owners are recognising that staying idle is no longer cost-free,” Cr Bolam said. “Land speculation and land banking in these corridors, particularly along Nepean Highway, have prevented the delivery of much-needed infrastructure such as hotels, mixed-use development and new housing options. This is investment our community desperately needs, and leaving prime land inactive helps no one.”

For the proposed new differential rate, land will be considered “vacant retail land” if it is designed for retail or general business use, has not traded for at least 90 days within the past two years, and has no active building or planning permits for redevelopment. The proposed differential rate is set at 300 percent of the general rate.

The outgoing mayor said that because of the differential rate currently applied to vacant land in the most re-

Legal system ‘too intimidating’

A SURVEY conducted by Peninsula Community Legal Centre has found that more than one-inthree people are facing hidden legal problems, including unpaid fines and debts.

The Peninsula Community Legal Centre’s mobile legal office, the Street Law Coffee Van, made 136 visits across Melbourne’s south-east between February 2024 and August 2025. It conducted 3799 “legal health checks” during that time, finding that 36 percent of clients had a legal issue that needed addressing.

PCLC CEO Jackie Galloway said that a majority of the identified issues related to housing insecurity and cost of living stress. She said “this data confirms what we have long suspected; many people have problems which they don’t even realise are legal issues.”

“Even for those who do know they need a lawyer, the legal system can just be too intimidating. Any action is put off,” she said.

“Yet through a patient conversation over coffee, everyday issues can turn out to have legal solutions. That delicate balance of humanity and cutting-edge expertise is what our Street Law program has delivered to our neighbours doing it

toughest out there.”

Galloway said that clients of the PCLC Street Law Coffee Van were able to resolve the situation immediately 80 percent of the time. An elderly pensioner planning to use his Centrelink savings to pay a $1,400 emergency service debt was able to access a pension exemption with assistance from the PCLC team, and a father had 40 road and toll fines worth over $15,000 withdrawn entirely.

“In all the examples shown, one simple conversation led to a lot of positive change. The Street Law van, for many people, is less intimidating and more effective than a legal office,” Galloway said.

“And it’s fair to say that if it weren’t out there, those suffering on the margins would likely never receive the help they need.

“That’s why we strongly encourage anyone who might identify with these stories to contact us for an appointment for free advice and support”.

The Peninsula Community Legal Centre offers free legal services to people living in Frankston and on the Mornington Peninsula. To contact the PCLC call 9783 3600.

THE vacancy rate on Young Street is higher than the regional average.

Picture: Gary Sissons

cent budget, average rate revenue from commercial ratepayers only increased by around 1.12 percent and average rate revenue from residential ratepayers increased by 2.24 percent. Both figures are comfortably under the state government’s 3 percent rate cap.

Council conducted a retail vacancy audit in May; it identified 79 vacant shops across the Frankston municipality with a 19 percent vacancy rate. The vacancy rate in Young Street sat above the regional average.

Community consultation on the proposed changes is expected to commence in February at engage. frankston.vic.gov.au.

Brodie Cowburn

“This new proposal aims to apply the same principle to long-term vacant shops, to ensure our city centre remains vibrant, active and appealing to residents and investors alike. Longstanding vacancies hurt not just building owners, but our entire community,” Cr Bolam said. “Empty shopfronts discourage new tenants, reduce street-level activity and impact safety, amenity, and confidence in our city centre. The success of our existing differential rate gives us confidence that applying the same approach to vacant retail properties will help unlock more development opportunities.”

THE Peninsula Community Legal Centre Street Law Coffee Van in action. Picture: Supplied

MORNINGTON MP Chris Crewther hopped in for a visit to the newly opened Little Grasshoppers Mt Eliza last Thursday (11 December). The centre represents the next generation of early learning, combining purpose-built design, natural lightfilled spaces, and outdoor adventure areas tailored to children aged six weeks to school years. Crewther is pictured with the book “Australian Outback Birds” by Mt Eliza-based author and illustrator Myke Mollard. Picture: Supplied

More highway high-rises approved

Brodie Cowburn brodie@mpnews.com.au

THREE more high-rise buildings along the Nepean Highway in Frankston have been given the green light to proceed.

At a meeting last week, Frankston councillors unanimously approved plans for a 10 storey building at 347-349 Nepean Highway and a 14 storey building at 431 Nepean Highway. Councillors also ticked off amended plans for 424/426 Nepean Highway - the initial plans were greenlit by VCAT late last year.

Earlier this year, construction got underway on the planned 14-storey apartment building at 446450 Nepean Highway. Council also approved plans for a 14 storey mixed-use building with 144 residential apartments at 438-444 Nepean Highway in August.

Cr Kris Bolam, who chaired the meeting as mayor, said “securing three major developments in a single meeting is exceptional and virtually unprecedented for an outer suburban council.”

“Frankston City is rising, and these developments show what becomes possible when a city invests in itself. We welcome this momentum, and we’re ready to turn these development opportunities into real, usable spaces for our city,” he said.

The proposal for 347-349 Nepean Highway is for a 10-storey mixed use-building with 69 dwellings and a café. The 431 Nepean Highway plan features a lower ground shop with frontage to Keys Street, three upper ground shops with frontage to the Nepean Highway, and 138 residential apartments inside a 14 storey building.

The amended 424-426 Nepean Highway plans allow for reduced upper-level setbacks to

Kananook Creek Boulevard. After submitting an initial amendment to VCAT after the approval of the original plans last November, the developer subsequently submitted another amendment to Frankston Council. A report by council officers released last week read that the developers offered “a compromise, specifically the upperlevel setback to Kananook Creek Boulevard positioned between what VCAT approved last year and what is proposed in the current VCAT appeal. The applicant has indicated they will withdraw the VCAT appeal if council approves this application.”

The 424-426 Nepean Highway plans still contain 105 apartments, however there has been a decrease in two-bedroom dwellings from 31 to 17 and an increase in three-bedroom dwellings from 34 to 47. The number of car parking spaces has been reduced from 190 to 186.

Cr Bolam also confirmed that alongside the approved developments at last week’s meeting, council has also received a submitted planning permit for a new hotel development.

“From business conferences to major sporting events, demand is there. What’s been missing is enough hotel stock. Planning lodgements like this are both very encouraging and welcome,” Cr Bolam said. He also said that council joining the Mornington Peninsula Regional Tourism Board would help attract major events and visitors to fill short-term accommodation.

The implementation of the FMAC Structure Plan has paved the way for the approval of highrise developments in Frankston CBD. Its associated planning scheme amendment C160fran, which outlines preferred height limits of up to 16 storeys in Frankston’s city centre, was gazetted by the planning minister in April (Green light for new heights, The News 22/4/2025).

DESIGNS for three buildings on Nepean Highway approved last week. Pictures: Supplied

A private villa unit on a block of just 3 within easy reach of Fishermans Beach and Main Street Mornington, and steps to parkland. This low-maintenance gem is freestanding, and it features a double garage, eye-catching gardens, and an attractive bay-window facade.

A private single-level beachside oasis with lush gardens and a studio, in a prime location barely 5 minutes’ walk to Mornington Village Shopping Centre and 10 minutes’ walk (approx) to Fishermans Beach.

Just Sold

Lighthouse Lookout with superb bay views

SET in an elevated position on a generous block, this split-level home provides a warm welcome within elegantly modern surroundings that radiate a laidback coastal ambience.

- Modern top-floor kitchen has dishwasher, built-in oven, ample storage

- Bay views from spacious lounge/dining with fireplace, and front deck

Bathed in natural light, its dual living spaces and ample accommodation make it perfect as a permanent family home or as a superb holiday escape. Simply move in, relax, and soak in the breathtaking bay panoramas down to the lighthouse and peninsula, and across to the You Yangs, while a walk of about 1km via a local underpass brings you to beautiful McCrae beach and cafés.

HOME ESSENTIALS

- Middle level has large main bedroom with mirrored robe, and 5th bedroom

- Dual-entry ensuite bathroom with rainfall shower, vanity and toilet

- Ground floor rumpus/family room with sink and understairs storage

- 1 bedroom with BIR, and 2 further bedrooms, all with split system RC/AC

ADDRESS: 65 Bayview Road, McCrae FOR SALE: $1,490,000 - $1,590,000 DESCRIPTION: 5 bed, 2 bath, 1 car, 977m2

AGENT: Grant McConnell - 0407 515 078, Belle Property Dromana, 215 Point Nepean Rd, Dromana, 5987 1999

- Bathroom with rainfall shower over bath, vanity and toilet

- RC/AC units throughout, fitted laundry, instant HWS, solar electric

- Set on approx. 977sqm, with electric gate to ample parking and carport

- Large private back garden with alfresco, storage/workshop and shed.n

Don’t have a property eagle? Get the eagle eye view of property.

The Guide

TOP PICKS OF THE WEEK

SUNDAY

THE IMPOSTER

TEN, 8pm

FRIDAY

A (VERY) MUSICAL CHRISTMAS

ABC TV, 7.30pm

Returning for a much-anticipated encore after last year’s enchanting special, Australia’s musical theatre community comes together in support of Beyond Blue for this delightful Christmas concert. Filmed at Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre, the special sparkles with homegrown talent as Zan Rowe welcomes Casey Donovan, Rob Mills (pictured) and Caroline O’Connor to the stage. The casts of MJ and Beetlejuice also join in, making for an unforgettable evening.

A triple treat for soap opera fans on both sides of the Atlantic, this homegrown drama combines the talents of Neighbours stalwart Jackie Woodburne, Coronation Street favourite Kym Marsh and one-time Summer Bay resident Dannii Minogue (all pictured).

Set in a Victorian coastal town, the four-part series sees Woodburne swap Susan Kennedy’s cherry locks for a bushy silver bob as Helen, the matriarch at the centre of a bitter family feud.

We design + build affordable custom kitchens and bathrooms using sustainable, non-toxic materials - making your space beautiful, functional, and safe for your family and the environment.

Thursday, December 18

ABC TV (2)

SBS (3)

MONDAY

NEVER MIND THE BUZZCOCKS

Whether your interests lie in gardening, cooking, sewing or even spelling, there’s almost certainly a themed Christmas special on the box to keep you entertained over the holidays. This one’s for the music lovers, with host Greg Davies (pictured) putting a timely twist on the cheeky quiz’s signature rock’n’roll trivia. Tom Jones’ merry misdemeanours, The Pogues singer Shane MacGowan’s festive faux pas and identifying music icons of yesteryear are all on the agenda for panellists including Daisy May Cooper, Noel Fielding, Jamali Maddix, Chris Ramsey.

SEVEN (7)

SUNDAY

CHRISTMAS WITH DELTA NINE, 7pm

After filming her 2024 special in Hollywood, Delta Goodrem returns to home soil for this sparkling evening of entertainment. Taking over Channel Nine’s Sydney studio and transforming it into a retro winter wonderland, the newlywed singer invites Cody Simpson, Jon Bon Jovi, Jordin Sparks and a bevy

@eco1kitchens eco1kitchens eco1kitchens.com.au eco1kitchens@iinet.net.au

NINE (9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00

When The War Is Over. (Final, PGa, R) 10.30 The Piano UK. (Final, PG, R) 11.25 QI. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Malv, R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (PGv, R) 3.00 QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.25 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. (Final)

8.00 Grand Designs Australia: Yarraville Pigeon. (Final, PG) A man converts the old Yarraville Pigeon club.

8.55 Long Lost Family. (Final, PG) Hosted by Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell.

9.45 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) Seven artists return for the semi-final.

10.35 The Art Of. (Mln, R)

11.05 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R)

11.50 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia: Family Easter Special. (R) 5.30 7.30. (Final, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 For The Love Of Dogs Xmas. (PG, R) 9.55 The Secret Life Of Lighthouses. (PGav, R) 10.50 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Amazon: The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 Nick Knowles Into The Grand Canyon. (PG, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (PGl, R) 4.15 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 ABBA And Elvis In The Outback. (Ml) 8.35 The Untold Story Of The Vatican. Chronicles the history of the Vatican. 9.35 Vigil. (MA15+av) Kirsten begs Amy to come home.

10.40 SBS World News Late.

11.10 Vienna Blood. (Return, MA15+av)

12.10 Outlander. (MA15+asv, R) 1.35 House Of Promises. (Ms, R) 4.15 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.30 The Ashes: Pre-Game Show. 10.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 2. Morning session. 12.30 The Ashes: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 2. Afternoon session. 3.10 The Ashes: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 2. Evening session.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 5. Melbourne Stars v Hobart Hurricanes. From the MCG. 10.30 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. An expert panel examines all the big news and issues with a deep dive into the world of cricket.

11.15 The Amazing Race. (PGl) The final four teams race through the Moulin Rouge, the Eiffel Tower and other iconic Paris locations.

12.45 Life. (Malsv, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Merry And Bright. (2019, G, R) Jodie Sweetin. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Great Getaways. (PG)

8.30 Topknotz: Wild On Water. (Ml) The team challenges Noemie Fox.

9.30 Limitless With Chris Hemsworth: Strength. (PGa, R) Chris Hemsworth learns about strength.

10.30 Chicago Med. (MA15+am)

11.20 Next Stop. 11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global

TEN (10)

annual special is

Delta Goodrem hosts Christmas with Delta

Friday, December 19

ABC (2)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG, R) 11.00 The Forsytes. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Royal Carols. (R) 2.05 Grand Designs Australia. (Final, PG, R) 3.00

QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 A (Very) Musical Christmas. Music for the festive season.

9.00 The Yearly With Charlie Pickering. (PGa, R) Charlie Pickering is joined by celebrities to take a look back at the highs and lows of 2025.

10.20 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) Hosted by comedian Adam Hills.

10.50 Silent Witness. (Mal, R) Nikki and Jack investigate a murder.

12.35 Rage Best New Music Videos Of 2025. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PG)

ABC FAMILY (22)

SBS (3) SEVEN (7)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 For The Love Of Dogs Xmas. (PG, R) 10.00 Inside Oxford Street. (PGa, R) 10.50 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Amazon: The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 Nick Knowles Into The Grand Canyon. (PGaw, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (PG, R) 4.15 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Indiana Jones: In Pursuit Of An Icon. Charts the enduring legacy of Indiana Jones.

8.30 Starring Dick Van Dyke. Celebrates the life and career of screen legend Dick Van Dyke as he celebrates his 100th birthday.

10.30 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Sisi. (Mav, R) 11.55 Culprits. (Malv, R) 2.05 Soldiers. (Malsv, R) 3.50 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.20

Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 5.30pm Peter Rabbit. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 My Adventures With Superman. (Premiere) 8.45 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.45 Merlin. 10.30 Officially Amazing. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.30 The Ashes: Pre-Game Show. 10.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 3. Morning session. 12.30 The Ashes: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 3. Afternoon session. 3.10 The Ashes: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 3. Evening session.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Victorian State Schools Spectacular. (PG) Featuring dance and musical performances.

10.00 NSW Schools Spectacular. (PG) Featuring dance and musical performances.

12.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) Dr Harry Cooper and Dr Katrina Warren present information about animals and pet care.

1.00 Miniseries: Any Human Heart. (Malns)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Australia’s Deadliest. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00

NINE (9)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Unforgettable Christmas. (2023, G, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) Experts help people declutter their lives.

8.40 MOVIE: Elf. (2003, G, R) A man raised as an elf at Santa’s North Pole home embarks on a journey to find his biological father. Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel.

10.40 MOVIE: Four Holidays. (2008, Mls, R) Reese Witherspoon.

12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.10 Hello SA. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards Summer. (PG, R)

TEN (10)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.

7.30 MOVIE: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back. (2016, Mlv, R) Jack Reacher helps an army officer he suspects is the victim of a conspiracy. Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders. 9.55 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.20 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.20 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 1.20pm WWE Legends. 2.55 Bamay. 3.25 Fashionista. 3.40 BBC News At Ten. 4.10 France 24. 4.40 PBS News. 5.40 If You Are The One. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Count Of Monte Cristo. (Final) 9.35 Secrets Of The Female Orgasm. 10.30 Homeland. 12.40am Letterkenny. 1.40 The Bloody Decade. 2.35 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

Three Musketeers. Continued. (1973, PG) 7.40 The Movie Show. 8.50 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 11.00 The Nugget. (2002, M) 12.50pm Up In The Air. (2009, M) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 5.35 Moonlighting. (1982, PG) 7.30 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 9.55 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 11.45 Reservoir Dogs. (1992, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs. SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Wildlife Rescue New Zealand. 11.00 Going Places. Noon MOVIE: The Endangered Generation? (2022, PG) 1.35 Anthem Sessions. 2.00 On Country Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Living Black. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Wildlife Rescue New Zealand. 7.30 MOVIE: Crackers. (1998, M) 9.20 MOVIE: This Christmas. (2007, PG) 11.20 Late Programs. NITV (34)

Saturday, December 20

6am The

7TWO (72) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Seinfeld.

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Return To Paradise. (PGdv, R) 1.25 Royal Carols: Together At Christmas. (R) 2.30 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (PG, R) 3.25 A (Very) Musical Christmas. (PG, R) 5.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 5.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now. (R) 5.55 Hard Quiz Battle Of The Networks. (PG, R)

6.30 When The War Is Over: Changi. (PGa, R) Rachel Griffiths visits the Burma-Thailand Railway.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Return To Paradise. (Final, PGdv) Glenn and Daisy’s wedding is interrupted.

8.30 Vera. (Ma, R) The body of a sickly young girl is discovered at the side of an isolated railway crossing.

10.00 The Forsytes. (Final, PG, R) Jolyon decides his future.

10.55 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv, R) Bergerac must save his daughter.

11.45 Rage Best Of The Guests 2025. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 9.05 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGaw, R) 9.15 Matched. (PG, R) 10.10 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 When The World Watched. 3.25 Ethnic Business Awards. (R) 5.30 Bettany Hughes: History Of Mother Earth.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Building The Vatican. (PGa, R) Explores The Vatican.

8.30 A Warwick Castle Christmas: Christmas At The Castle. Follows the team at Warwick Castle as they prepare for their busiest time of the year.

9.30 Harrods: The Rise And Fall Of A British Institution. (Ma, R) Charts the story of a national icon.

10.25 MOVIE: Robin’s Wish. (2020, Ma, R)

11.45 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Mav, R)

3.10 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.10 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R)

5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Paddington. 4.00 Knee High Spies. 4.20 Millie Magnificent. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.30 Merry Madagascar. 8.00 Kung Fu Panda Holiday. 8.25 Chopped Jnr. 9.10 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Abbott Elementary. 10.10 Speechless. 10.35 Dragon Ball Super. 11.00 Late Programs.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Moonlighting. Continued. (1982) 7.55 The Three Musketeers. (1973, PG) 10.00 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 12.25pm Say It Loud. (2020, M, Italian) 2.10 A Room With A View. (1985, PG) 4.20 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 6.10 The Family Man. (2000, PG) 8.30 The Royal Hotel. (2023, MA15+) 10.10

Antiques Downunder. 8.30 MOVIE: A View To A Kill. (1985, M) 11.10 The Equalizer. 12.10am Late Programs. 9GEM (92)

6am Morning Programs. 12.30 The Ashes: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 4. Afternoon session. 3.10 The Ashes: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 4. Evening session. (PG) 12.00 Surfing Australia TV. (PGl) 12.30 Find My Beach House Australia. (R) 1.00 Drive Safer. 1.30 My Way. (R) 2.00 Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. (PGm, R) 2.30 MOVIE: Christmas In Scotland. (2023, G) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Find My Country House Australia. (R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Animals Aboard With Dr Harry. (PG) The team hits the road to save man’s best friend. A teary farewell is made to a special needs pup.

8.00 Carols In The Domain. (PG) Coverage of Carols In The Domain from Sydney. Featuring The Wiggles, Marcia Hines and Hugh Sheridan.

10.30 NSW Schools Spectacular. (PG, R) Featuring dance and musical performances.

1.00 Miniseries: Any Human Heart. (Malns)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Nugget Is Dead: A Christmas Story. (2024, Mln) A woman returns to her hometown for Christmas. Vic Zerbst.

9.30 MOVIE: Bad Moms 2. (2017, MA15+als, R) Three mums prepare for Christmas. Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell. 11.35 MOVIE: Christmess. (2023, Madl, R)

1.05 Find My Beach House Australia. 1.35 Surfing Australia TV. (PGl, R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)

6.00 MOVIE: Dear Santa. (2024, PGalv) A devilish character posing as Santa wreaks havoc. Jack Black, Keegan-Michael Key. 8.00 Love It Or List It Australia. Rachael and Ryan can’t agree over their Greenslopes Queenslander, so Neale tries to find a solution. 9.10 The Dog House. (PGa, R) The Griffiths family hopes Gigi the labrador cross will help dad Dave get into the festive spirit. 10.10 Jamie Oliver: Christmas. (R) Jamie Oliver hosts a Christmas party. 11.20 Jamie’s One-Pan Christmas. (R) Jamie Oliver shows how to make one-pot meals. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6am Morning Programs. 12.35pm Bamay. 1.00 Curse Of Oak Island. 3.35 BBC News At Ten. 4.05 France 24. 4.35 PBS News. 5.35 Mastermind Aust. 6.35 Inside Legoland: A World Of Wonder. 7.35 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 Icons Unearthed: Fast & Furious. (Premiere) 10.20 Snowpiercer. 12.10am Letterkenny. 1.50 The Bloody Decade. 2.45 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Timbersports. 1.00 Blokesworld. 1.30 Cool Cars & Bikes. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. National Drag Racing Championship. Top Fuel Championship. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: 47 Ronin. (2013, M) 9.50 MOVIE: Dante’s Peak. (1997, PG) 12.10am Late Programs.

6am Children’s Programs. 8.10 Jeopardy! UK. 9.10 MOVIE: Christmas Hotel. (2019) 11.00 Ice Hockey. NHL. Florida Panthers v Carolina Hurricanes. 1.40pm Soccer. English Premier League. Crystal Palace v Manchester City. Replay. 3.40 MOVIE: Radio Christmas. (2019, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Santa Hunters. (2024, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. (2013, M) 10.25 The Winter King. 11.35 Late Programs.

Sunday, December 21

6am Morning Programs. 10.30 New Leash On Life. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 A Dog’s World With Tony Armstrong. (Final, R) 1.25 Gardening Australia: Christmas Special. (R) 2.25 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat: Christmas Special. (R) 3.25 Long Lost Family. (Final, PG, R) 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes: Christmas Special. (R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (Final, PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Spicks And Specks. (Final, PG)

8.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (Final) Three artists compete in the final.

8.50 Return To Paradise. (Final, PGdv, R) Glenn and Daisy’s wedding is interrupted. 9.50 When The War Is Over: Australian Wars. (Final, PGa, R)

10.30 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (Ml, R)

11.00 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat: Christmas Special. (R) 12.00 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Dream Gardens. (R) 3.40 The Art Of. (PG, R) 4.10 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.10 Annabel Crabb’s Civic Duty. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 9.05

Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 9.25

Matched. (PG, R) 10.15 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.55

The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Figure Skating. ISU Grand Prix 4. Highlights. 5.30 Hotel Chocolat At Christmas. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Cleopatra: Cracking The Enigma. (PG) Looks at the secrets of Cleopatra’s temple.

8.30 Ken Burns’ The American Revolution. (PG) The Revolution faces its toughest challenge yet as General Washington tries to defend New York City.

10.35 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. (Ma, R)

11.30 Australian Fashion Past, Present, Future. (PGln, R)

12.35 Empires Of New York. (MA15+ad, R)

3.05 Growing A Greener World. (R) 4.05 Rediscover Victoria. (PG, R) 4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30 The Ashes: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 5. Afternoon session. 3.10 The Ashes: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. The Ashes. Third Test. Australia v England. Day 5. Evening session.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 8. Melbourne Renegades v Hobart Hurricanes. 10.30 Unfiltered: Cricket. (PG) Jackson Warne shares memories of his late father, cricketing legend Shane Warne. 11.00 7NEWS Spotlight. Bruce McAvaney meets Gout Gout, the young sprinting sensation who has captured the attention of Australia and the world.

12.00 MacGruber. (Premiere, MA15+lsv)

1.15 Travel Oz. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00

Weekend Today. 10.00 Cross Court. 10.30

GolfBarons. (PG, R) 11.00 Fishing Australia. 11.30 Explore TV. (R) 12.00 Find My Beach House Australia. (R) 12.30 MOVIE: The Most Colorful Time Of The Year. (2022, G) 2.10

MOVIE: Destination Christmas. (2022, PGa, R) 4.00 Great Getaways. (PG, R) 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Postcards Summer. (PG) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Australia By Design: Architecture. (R) 9.30 Key Ingredient. 10.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 10.30 The Dog Hospital With Graeme Hall. (PGm, R) 11.30 Pooches At Play. (R) 12.00 The Dog Academy. (PGa) 1.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 1.30 Lingo. (R) 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Round 13. Tasmania JackJumpers v Perth Wildcats. 4.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 5.00 News.

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 Christmas With Delta. A Christmas concert with Delta Goodrem. 8.30 MOVIE: Vacation. (2015, MA15+ln, R)

A man embarks on a cross-country trip to an amusement park with his family. Ed Helms, Christina Applegate, Chris Hemsworth. 10.30 Red Eye. (Mav) Nolan recounts the events in Beijing.

11.30 World’s Most Dangerous Prisoners: Pike. (MA15+av, R)

12.20 Wild Cards. (Mav, R)

1.10 Explore TV. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

6.00 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narelle seeks two dogs for her fresh start in the Blue Mountains and meets two bonded beagles. 7.00 Selling Houses Australia. (R) Separated parents, who decided to sell their house after their kids left, are struggling with it still on the market eight months later. 8.00 The Imposter. (Premiere, Mals) A beachfront hotel sparks family conflict when the matriarch won’t sell, despite her children’s wishes. 10.00 FBI. (Mv, R) The team discovers that the identities of multiple undercover agents have been compromised. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Mastermind Aust. Noon Dark Side Of The ‘90s. 1.50 WWE Rivals. 2.40 Jeopardy! 4.45 France 24. 5.15 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 Icons Unearthed: The Lord Of The Rings. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 Miracles. 9.50 Liaison. 10.50 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 12.50am Am I Being Unreasonable? 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.25pm Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 A Very Play School Christmas. 3.45 Thomas. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Piney: The Lonesome Pine. 5.35 Peter Rabbit. 6.10 PJ Masks. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.30 MOVIE: Paddington. (2014)

9.00 A (Very) Musical Christmas. 10.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.55 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Rugby League. Koori Knockout. Walgett Aboriginal Connections v Sydney All Blacks. Replay. 2.10 Black And Dusty. 3.10 Ethnic Business Awards. 5.10 Australian Music Vault: Kutcha Edwards. 6.45 Wildlife Rescue New Zealand. 7.35 Aerial Australia.

8.30 Nat King Cole: Afraid Of The Dark. 10.10 MOVIE: Vacant Possession. (1994, M) 11.50 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

The Family Man. Continued. (2000, PG) 7.45 The Movie Show. 8.55 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 10.25 On The Basis Of Sex. (2018, M) 12.35pm The Bridges Of Madison County. (1995, M) 3.00 Moonlighting. (1982) 4.55 Miyazaki, Spirit Of Nature. (2024, PG) 6.30 The Boy And The Heron. (2023) 8.50 Freud’s Last Session. (2023) 10.50 A Beautiful Mind. (2001, M) 1.10am Late Programs.

7TWO (72)

6am Morning Programs.

9.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 10.00 Escape To The Country. 1pm Harry’s Practice. 1.30 Medical Emergency. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Christmas With The Salvos. 3.00 Hornby: A Model Empire. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 7.00 Greatest Escapes To The Country. 7.45 Mrs Brown’s Boys. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs.

9GEM (92)

6am Skippy. 6.30 Amazing Facts With Doug Batchelor. 7.00 Leading The Way. 7.30 In Touch. 8.00 Beyond Today. 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 My Favorite Martian. 10.30 Avengers. 11.40 MOVIE: Attack On The Iron Coast. (1968, PG) 1.35pm MOVIE: Sabata. (1969, PG) 3.45 MOVIE: The Train. (1964, PG) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Licence To Kill. (1989, M) 11.15 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 MOVIE: Jingle Belle. (2018) 10.45 MOVIE: The Christmas Pact. (2018) 12.30pm WNBL. Flyers v Spirit. 2.30 English Premier League. Manchester United v Bournemouth. Replay. 4.30 Premier League Stories. 5.15 MOVIE: Scooby-Doo. (2002, PG) 7.00 MOVIE: The Polar Express. (2004) 9.00 MOVIE: The Dark Knight Rises.

Monday, December 22

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Great Australian Stuff. (PG, R) 7.00 News Breakfast. 9.30 Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen. (R) 10.00 Take 5. (Final, R) 10.30 Vera. (Ma, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Ningaloo Nyinggulu. (Final, R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) 3.00 QI. (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 For The Love Of Dogs Xmas. (PGa, R) 10.10 Inside Oxford Street. (Ml, R) 11.00 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.00 Amazon: The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 Such Was Life. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz Kids. (PG)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 I Was Actually There: Boxing Day Tsunami. (Ma, R)

8.00 MOVIE: Songs Inside. (2024, Ml) Incarcerated women enter a songwriting program. Nancy Bates.

9.30 MOVIE: Girls Can’t Surf. (2020, M, R) A group of surfers challenge professionals. Layne Beachley.

11.15 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (MA15+, R)

11.45 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R)

12.35 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.20 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.35 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.35 Nigella Bites. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of The Tasmanian Tiger. (PG, R) A look at the Tasmanian tiger. 8.30 Never Mind The Buzzcocks Christmas. Greg Davies is joined by celebrity guests Chris Ramsey, Jordan North, Ella Henderson and Jamali Maddix.

9.25 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (M) Comedic game show.

10.20 The 2010s: Peak TV. (MA15+av, R) 11.50 The Man Who Died. (Mav) 12.40 Culprits. (Malv, R) 2.45 Pagan Peak. (MA15+as, R) 4.30 Growing A Greener World. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

5.15 Al Jazeera. 5.45 Travel Man: 96 Hours In Iceland. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 I Am Luke Perry. 10.05 The Billionaires Who Made Our World. 11.05 Question Team. 11.55 Django. 12.55am Love Around The World. 2.20 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.10pm Octonauts. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Fizzy And Suds. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.25 Mojo Swoptops. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Paddington. 6.55 Tiddler. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 TKO: Total Knock Out. 9.15 The Crystal Maze. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 7.50 The Movie Show. 8.25 The Snow

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (Return, PG) 12.00 MOVIE: Christmas In Pine Valley. (2022, PGa, R) Kristina Cole. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 9. Sydney Thunder v Brisbane Heat. From Manuka Oval, Canberra. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the game between the Sydney Thunder and Brisbane Heat. 11.00 Chicago Fire. (Mav) Boden returns on Grissom’s orders to run a post-incident analysis after a house collapsed during a fire with a firefighter inside. 12.00 Girlfriends’ Guide To Divorce. (MA15+s) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Just Like A Christmas Movie. (2023, PGa) Marlie Collins. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Farm To Fork. (R) 8.00 Bold. (PG, R)

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Travel Guides. (PGl, R) Ordinary Australians become travel critics. 8.40 MOVIE: Raiders Of The Lost Ark. (1981, Mv, R) An archaeologist and adventurer sets out on a quest to recover the fabled Ark of the Covenant. Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, John Rhys-Davies.

11.00 Sight Unseen. (Mv)

11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

(92)

(72) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. Noon Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Ghosts Of Girlfriends Past. (2009, M) 10.35 Seinfeld. 11.35 The 100. 12.35am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. Noon Border Security. 1.30 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 2.30 Motor Racing. National Drag Racing Championship. Top Fuel Championship. Replay. 3.30 Billy The Exterminator.

(2019) 5.30 Yorkshire

Antiques Roadshow. 7.30

8.40

(1995, PG) 11.20

In

Programs.

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PG, R) Will races in to rescue a swimmer. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Andrew Winter helps a couple. 8.40 The Imposter. (Final, Madls) A beachfront hotel sparks family conflict when the matriarch won’t sell, despite her children’s wishes. 10.40 NCIS. (Mv, R) A pilot’s body is found with unusual wounds. 12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

Tuesday, December 23

ABC (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7) TEN (10) NINE (9)

6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen. (R) 10.00 The Art Of... (PG, R) 10.30 Death In Paradise. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Killer Whale: Australia’s Megapod. (PG, R) 2.00 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) 3.00

QI. (PG, R) 3.35 Nigella Bites. (R) 4.00 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PGa, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz Kids. (R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Piano UK. (PG, R) Hosted by Claudia Winkleman.

8.25 The Piano UK: The Incredibly Talented Lucy. (PG, R) The extraordinary story of blind pianist Lucy, following her as she is propelled into the limelight.

9.25 The Assembly: Ray Martin. (PG, R) The students interview Ray Martin. 10.55 Escaping Utopia. (Ma, R)

11.55 A Country Road: The Nationals. (Final, R) 12.55 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 1.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.35 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.35 Nigella Bites. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 For The Love Of Dogs Xmas. (PGa, R) 10.00 Inside Oxford Street. (PG, R) 10.50 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Royal Road Trip. (R) 2.55 Such Was Life. (PG, R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 12.00 MOVIE: Candy Cane Candidate. (2021, PGa, R) Jacky Lai. 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: 12 Dares Of Christmas. (2023, G) Brittany Underwood. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great British Railway Journeys:

Edinburgh To Queensferry. (R)

8.30 Who Do You Think You Are? Olly Murs. (PG) Olly Murs explores his Latvian roots.

9.40 Australia In Colour: Crime And Punishment. (Md, R) A collection of colourised archival footage.

10.40 The 2010s. (Malv, R)

11.30 Families Like Ours. (MA15+v)

12.30 De Gaulle. (Ma, R)

2.30 Nordland 99. (Mal, R)

4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 10. Adelaide Strikers v Melbourne Stars.

10.30 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. An expert panel examines all the big news and issues with a deep dive into the world of cricket.

11.15 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGal) When Mayan realises her only friend is her mother, she attempts to pick up where she left off with an old classmate.

12.15 Miniseries: London Spy. (MA15+ds)

1.30 Travel Oz. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo: Emu Rescue. (PG)

8.30 Jamie Durie’s Future House. Jamie Durie races to complete his 3D-printed home.

9.35 Beyond The Build. Jimmy and Tam settle into life on the Sunshine Coast.

10.35 Wild Cards. (Mv)

11.30 La Brea. (Mav, R) 12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Cross Court. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

9GEM (92)

NITV (34)

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs.

12.35pm Diana Ross: Supreme Sensation. 1.30 Our Law. 2.00 Strait To The Plate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Wildlife Rescue New Zealand. 7.30 Water Worlds. 8.30 Unleash The Beast. 9.30 Hunting Aotearoa. 10.30 MOVIE: Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale. (2010, M) Midnight Late Programs.

7TWO (72) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm Australian Ninja Warrior. 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30

3.20 Antiques Roadshow. 3.50 MOVIE: Welcome To Christmas. (2018) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks. 8.40 MOVIE: Tomorrow Never Dies. (1997, M) 11.05 Late Programs.

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PG, R) Chappo goes to rescue a father and daughter. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 8.30 MOVIE: The First Wives Club. (1996, PGal, R) Three women, dumped by their husbands for younger women, decide to get revenge. Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler, Diane Keaton. 10.35 Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas To All. (R) 12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Mastermind Aust. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Homicide. 2.15 Heroines. 3.45 BBC News At Ten. 4.15 France 24. 4.45 PBS News. 5.45 Travel Man: 96 Hours In Jordan. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Our Guy In Vietnam. 10.20 Hoarders. 11.15 Dark Side Of The Ring. 12.10am Bad Education. 1.20 Count Abdulla. 2.10 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Fizzy And Suds. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.25 Mojo Swoptops. 4.50 Bluey. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.30 Ben And Holly. 6.50 Stick Man. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.30 Animals Up Close With Bertie Gregory. 9.10 Super Shark Highway. 10.00 Merlin. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am The Movie Show. 7.05 The Red Turtle. (2016, PG, No dialogue) 8.30 The Movie Show. 9.00 Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. (2009, PG) 10.40 La La Land. (2016, M) 1pm Freud’s Last Session. (2023) 3.00 Ponyo. (2008) 5.00 The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 6.30 Kiki’s Delivery Service. (1989) 8.30 Starring Dick Van Dyke. 10.25 Divorce American Style. (1967, M) 12.25am Late Programs.

Wednesday, December 24

ABC TV (2) SBS (3) SEVEN (7)

6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen. (Final, R) 10.00 MOVIE: Songs Inside. (2024, Ml, R) 11.30 Maggie Beer’s Christmas Feast. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Piano UK. (PG, R) 1.55 Death In Paradise. (Mv, R) 2.55 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R) 3.30 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.55 Grand Designs NZ. (R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz Kids. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG)

8.10 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG) Presented by Guy Montgomery.

9.00 QI. (Mls) Hosted by Sandi Toksvig. 9.30 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R) Hosted by Rob Brydon.

10.00 Spicks And Specks. (Final, PG, R)

10.30 Utopia. (PG, R) 11.25 You Can’t Ask That. (Mals, R) 12.35 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 1.20 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.35 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.35 Nigella Bites. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.05 For The Love Of Dogs Xmas. (PGa, R) 10.00 Inside Oxford Street. (PG, R) 10.50 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Darcey Bussell’s Royal Road Trip. (R) 2.55 Such Was Life. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 London Zoo At Christmas. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Big Fat Quiz Of Everything. (Mls, R) Presented by Jimmy Carr. 9.05 Rock Legends: Elton John. (PGd, R) Documents the career of Elton John, from his days as a budding songwriter to his peak in the ’70s. 9.35 Crime. (MA15+) Lennox must save an attacker’s third victim.

10.30 The 2010s: Obama – Legacy On The Line. (Ma, R) 11.20 Mirusia: Live In Concert. 12.50 Daddy Issues. (Mls, R)

4.00 Growing A Greener World. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Fizzy And Suds. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.25 Mojo Swoptops. 5.30 Peter Rabbit. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.55 Tabby McTat. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Merry Madagascar. 8.25 MOVIE: The Night Before Christmas In Wonderland. (2024) 9.45 A (Very) Musical Christmas. 11.20 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am The Movie Show. 6.35 The Snow Foxes. (2023, PG) 8.10 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 11.00 Year Of The Dog. (2007, M) 12.55pm Starring Dick Van Dyke. 2.55 Kiki’s

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 12.00 MOVIE: Murder, She Baked: A Plum Pudding Mystery. (2015, PGav, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R) Hosted by Lee Mack. 8.00 MOVIE: The Holiday. (2006, Mls, R) Two women who live on opposite sides of the Atlantic impulsively switch homes for Christmas. Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet. 10.40 Chicago Fire. (Ma) Severide investigates a past house fire.

11.40 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Officers stop two newlyweds at the border.

12.05 MOVIE: The Other Me. (2021, Mav, R) Sheena Peña.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Larry The Wonder Pup. (R)

5.30 NBC Today.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Under The Christmas Sky. (2023, G) Jessica Parker Kennedy. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Christmas With Delta. (R) A Christmas concert with Delta Goodrem.

8.00 Carols By Candlelight. (PG) Coverage of the Vision Australia Carols by Candlelight from Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne. 11.00 MOVIE: Noel Next Door. (2022, PGa) Natalie Hall.

12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Nine Perth Presents: Christmas In WA. (R) 5.30 Thunderbirds. (R)

6.00 Bondi Rescue. (PG, R)

6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.30 Airport 24/7. (PGal, R) A kangaroo keeps Trent on his toes. 8.30 The Cheap Seats. (MA15+l, R) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was. 9.30 MOVIE: Patriot Games. (1992, Mv, R) A former CIA agent becomes a target for assassination after shooting an IRA terrorist. Harrison Ford, Anne Archer. 11.50 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Hour Of Power Christmas Eve Special. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm If You Are The One. 3.45 BBC News At Ten. 4.15 France 24. 4.45 PBS News. 5.45 Travel Man: Jon Hamm In Hong Kong. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.20 MOVIE: Gremlins. (1984, M) 11.20 Tis The Season: The Holidays On Screen. 12.55am Show Me The Father. 2.35 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

• No more mud in your gutters

• No more vermin or birds in your roof

• Protect your most valued investment -your home, your building

• Gutters stay clean - no more cleaning

• Save money and cleaning time

• 25 year guarantee

1300

*Valid Until 12/01/26

Time to have a conversation about councillor election funding

Debates about political donations often focus on state and federal elections. A recent vote at our local council, however, is a reminder that questions of democratic trust frequently arise at the level closest to home.

A councillor proposed a motion seeking tighter donation rules for local government (Council rejects push for stricter donation rules, The News 9/12/25). It was not framed as an accusation or a challenge to colleagues’ integrity, but as an opportunity to reflect on whether existing arrangements continue to support public confidence.

The council was evenly divided.

The motion was ultimately lost on the deputy mayor’s casting vote. A split decision suggests the issue remains unresolved, one on which many people may hold different views.

Local councils make decisions that shape everyday life, from planning approvals to development and zoning. In smaller and closely connected communities, these decisions can feel particularly immediate. It is in this setting that questions about political donations tend to surface, not as allegations, but as considerations of trust and perception.

Many councillors serve with sincerity and a strong sense of public duty, and that commitment matters. At the same time, democratic systems are often at their strongest when they minimise uncertainty rather than rely solely on goodwill.

More precise disclosure requirements and modest donation limits would not weaken local democracy. They may help reinforce, for councillors and residents alike, the confidence that decisions are made in the public interest.

A casting vote may have brought this motion to a close, but the broader conversation may still be worth having. When democracy operates closest to people’s lives, transparency carries particular weight.

Anne Kruger, Rye

Considered on merit?

Despite the Shire officer’s high-quality and evidence-based report and clear recommendation, the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council voted NOT to object to the controversial expansion of the Arthurs Seat Eagle facility — a decision that raises serious concerns about how decisions are made, particularly by those councillors who frequently vote in a bloc on major items (mayor Marsh, deputy mayor Pingiaro, Cr Allen, Cr Batty, Cr Ranken, Cr Williams).

The proposed upgrade — including a luge track, an oversized observation tower, and other structures — lacks demonstrated value to the community, offering no clear benefits while causing significant environmental damage. It risks disrupting vital wildlife corridors, threatening species like the Powerful Owl, koalas and macropods. The proposed luge track could fragment east-west migration paths, isolating wildlife into smaller, resource-deprived pockets, leading to starvation — an issue already seen at The Briars Sanctuary.

Moreover, the proposal fails to address crucial safety concerns, including bushfire risks, landslides, and erosion, due to the steep terrain. There is also no clarity on who will bear the costs for environmental restoration, parking infrastructure, and public safety – economic costs lack quantification. These long-term expenses are likely to fall on the community, not the developers who stand to profit.

This proposal contradicts the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council Plan 2025–2029, which prioritises the protection of our natural environment and community well-being. Approving this development would be inconsistent with the council’s governance principles, which emphasise transparency, responsiveness, and prioritising community needs over commercial interests. It also undermines key strategic objectives related to environmental resilience and the long-term health and safety of the community. The proposal is also not in line with the Shire’s own Planning Policy Framework and internal referral responses. Do we have a council that is genuinely acting in the interest of the community and representing its electorate? It appears not.

Anja Ottensmeyer, Mt Martha

Councillor commitments

It is fascinating to see the acrobatics of our current class of Mornington Peninsula councillors. Here’s my challenge, read back over their election material and with every single one of them, they promised, if elected, that they would be more consultative with the community on issues affecting ratepayers, they said they would ensure future development would not impact on our green spaces or be out of context with the current environment and they promised that would protect the uniqueness of the Mornington Peninsula.

Now take a look at how they are operating and with the decisions they are making since they have been elected.

Now on a totally different and unrelated topic, when you were at high school, did any of you read George Orwell’s book - Animal Farm? I did and I found it to be required reading.

Bob Impey, Mornington

Block voting

The 5–5 defeat of Cr David Gill’s motion to strengthen election-donation rules at Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is yet another nail in the coffin of transparency — and yet another attempt by a voting block to push back against accountability, consultation, and public scrutiny (Council rejects push for stricter donation rules, The News 9/12/25)

Gill’s proposal was hardly radical. It simply asked for basic democratic safeguards: real-time disclosure of donations, clearer limits on who can donate, and caps on late-campaign money that can distort elections in the shadows. These are standard reforms in any council that takes integrity seriously.

Yet the majority voted it down, again. And the obvious question is why?

Perhaps because tighter rules would mean a proper deep dive into large contributions through corporate vehicles. The public deserves absolute clarity about who is influencing whom.

The refusal to support Notice of Motion 506 (Cr Gill) — aimed squarely at improving accountability around election donations — fits the broader pattern. Over the past term, the majority have consistently voted down transparency measures, community-driven consultation efforts, and any motion that would allow ratepayers to see more clearly how decisions are made and who benefits.

Each blocked reform chips away at trust. Each rejected request for disclosure signals that secrecy is becoming standard operating procedure. And each time the public asks for accountability, the answer from the bloc seems to be some version of “no need to look here.”

The peninsula community deserves far better than a council majority that treats transparency as a threat rather than a duty. Hopefully some are keeping track!

Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach

Changes to rates

An item for discussion at the February meeting of the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is listed as “proposed changes to rate payments. The proposal is to do away with allowing ratepayers to pay rates in full when due on the scheduled date for payment which is always a date in February.

It is my understanding that Victorian local councils cannot refuse a full lump sum payment of your rates if you choose that option. The Local Government Act 1989 (Section 167) requires councils to offer ratepayers the option to pay their rates in four installments but it also allows for payment in a lump sum. I have always paid my rates in full on or before the due date and will continue to do so. If the rate notice has a due by date then that is the date that payment is due. If a ratepayer chooses to pay by installments, whether fortnightly, monthly or quarterly, then that is their option.

I have no intention of giving authority to the shire to deduct funds from my bank account or credit card and I don’t believe I can legally be forced to do so if I want to pay my rates in full when due.

I see this proposed change as a cash grabbing exercise of getting payment equalling two rate installments, or half the full amount of the rates,

Cyclists, where are you?

Your excellent Pothole campaign must be causing embarrassment with Local and State Government public servants. It has caused a number to be fixed.

A couple of cyclists have rung me recently to make the point that the edges of many of our roads are absolutely devastating to those trying to hug the left, or being forced by inconsiderate motorists off the road.

before the due date for payment in full.

Imagine purchasing goods or paying a tradie and being told no we can’t take payment in full, you have to pay in installments.

Climate plan

Helen Lord, Mt Eliza

It is pleasing that the Mornington Peninsula Shire has somewhat reversed its ill considered decision to scrap the climate action plan that council had adopted in 2020 (Councillors vote in new climate roadmap after emergency scrapped, The News 9/12/25).

This new plan called a hopeful “climate resilience framework” may help redress the situation it thoughtlessly created. Whilst the new plan is, it appears, to be only at concept stage we can hope that it does develop into more than just a snazzy title.

Ross Hudson, Mt Martha

Obligations being met?

In the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council’s meeting on 2 December, Cr Max Patton referred to the council’s “legislative obligations” on climate (Councillors vote in new climate roadmap after emergency scrapped, The News 9/12/2025).

The Local Government Act 2020 contains two such requirements.

First, councils must “promote the economic, social and environmental sustainability of the municipal district, including mitigation and planning for climate change risks.”

Second, that “decision-making is supported by robust and transparent practices, and that the long-term adverse consequences of climate change for future generations are incorporated

Come on now! Be active and send in photographs of the tyre threatening and dangerous edges on the Mornington Peninsula roads.

As ratepayers and taxpayers we deserve better.

Keep the blowtorch on those responsible. Ranald Macdonald, Flinders

into council planning, decisions and actions.” While the proposed “climate resilience framework” appears to meet the second requirement, it appears not to adequately address “mitigation” in the first.

Climate mitigation means reducing or preventing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing carbon sinks such as urban forests, shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency and adopting low-emission transport. The 2020 climate action plan set specific targets for these measures and was widely regarded. Unless the council reverses its April 2025 decision to revoke that plan, it is hard to see how its full obligations under the Act are being met. It is also hard to see how savings like the $6.6m in reduced community and Shire energy costs as reported in the 2023/24 Climate Emergency Plan Progress Report will continue to be made.

Ray Peck, Hawthorn

Rabbit problem

After roads and planning issues the most community feedback I currently receive is about the uncontrolled rabbit population.

Farmers and residents alike are concerned with literally being eaten out of house and farm. Problems include road accident issues and environmental effects; hundreds of native species are threatened because of rabbit populations.

The only questions are whose responsibility is it, and what can be done about rabbits?

The answers are inconclusive though I believe…

1. Council is responsible for its managed public land such as bush reserves

2. The State Government is responsible for pest

Corner of Marine Dve and Tonkin St, Safety Beach

and noxious weed control implemented by owners of horticultural and agricultural properties and State managed crown land such as national parks

3. Nobody is responsible for rabbits in residential areas.

It is time for governments to co-ordinate action to help keep rabbits under control.

It seems the only effective measure, though drastic, is to use the readily available calicivirus biological control. This needs to be co-ordinated and strategic, it must be spread at the right time of the year, or increased immunity may result. It should not be released during July through to December.

At present this is done legally by private and public entities, but it is only really effective if we begin to co-ordinate the release across State, Local Government and private properties in regions like the Mornington Peninsula.

Rabbits do not recognise boundaries.

Cr David Gill, Coolart Ward

Disabled beach access

Thank you to Bill James (Good News, Letters 9/12/25) for his heartwarming observations.

Anyone interested in disabled beach access at Frankston can find detailed information on: accessiblebeaches.com.

My understanding is that disabled beach access will be available at Frankston, near the pier, each Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10.30am2.30pm until the end of February.

Joan Law, Mornington

Part-time cop shop

Slim Dusty’s “The Pub With No Beer” was a great hit for the artist. He should make a come back with a song about Hastings Police Station and give it the title “the cop shop with no cops”. Out of twelve visits to this station over the past two weeks, I got access twice.

Surely that does not meet the “pub test”.

Brian McAnallen, Hastings

Parking at Frankston

Public parking is in short supply near Frankston Beach, yet six prominently-placed permit parking spots still exist for “Sofia’s Restaurant” staff. The restaurant is defunct, presumably the staff are non-existent. Why does council not remove the permits and open up the space for the public?

Virginia Barnett, Mt Waverley

Two-tiered society

In Victoria recently, those advocating for the treaty have ignored the dangers race-based laws pose to our democracy. The letter from Joe Lenzo (Treaty Claims Absurd, Letters 2/12/2025) was simply more of the same.

Mr Lenzo’s letter took issue with Institute of Public Affairs’ research, claiming Victoria’s new treaty body is simply advisory and will not result in special rights nor interfere with government. While Mr Lenzo is entitled to his opinion, the legislation itself suggests otherwise.

Victoria’s new treaty laws create a race-based body, Gellung Warl, where only Aboriginal Victorians can vote. That is, by definition, a special right. And while every Victorian will pay for this new body, it will answer only to this select group. It is not merely advisory but effectively a

fourth branch of government. The legislation recognises the “unique status” of Aboriginal people and gives the body “decision-making powers”, including the ability to make substantive rules. That is the basis for a two-tiered legal system, which the Treaty Authority openly supports, stating in its annual report its mandate to “uphold two systems of law – Aboriginal and Western”.

Mr Lenzo cites AAP FactCheck as an authority on the treaty. However, Australians have not forgotten its partisan censorship during the Voice to Parliament debate, where 93% of its fact-checking articles targeted claims made by those critical of the Voice. Bias writ large.

While fair-minded Australians want better outcomes for Aboriginal Australians, one thing they have overwhelmingly rejected at the ballot box is race-based laws. Such laws pave the way for a two-tiered society.

Margaret Chambers, Research Fellow, Institute of Public Affairs

Painting a picture

May I remind your correspondent, Mechelle Cheers (Rest your case, Letters 10/12/25), who seems unable to distinguish between argument and personal abuse, that a few hundred years ago it was an “accepted fact” that the world was flat?

Perhaps she could now let us all know what she considers to be “the worst prejudices of (my) generation”, and which of my utterances she considers to be proof of such prejudices.

In response to her final question, in the dim distant past I did once or twice experiment with painting by numbers, but found that I prefer to make original works.

Three of my efforts are currently on display in Oak Hill Gallery in Mornington, if she would like to see them.

Albert Riley, Mornington

Oh... wait...

It’s wonderful to see local Albert Riley taking another firm stand against those pesky indigenous people (Against Treaty, Letters 2/12/25).

I’m with you Albert, why don’t they all just go back to where they come from?

Oh, hang on ...

David Martin, Mt Martha

New Year’s resolution

Would VicRoads please:

1. Re-paint the white lines at Anthony’s Nose to make bike lanes both ways.

2. Trim foliage on Rosebud roundabouts so drivers can see other cars.

These seem like “no-brainers” to me but...

Warwick Spinaze, Rosebud

Marvellous Main Street

I have written in the past to complain about the dismal drabness of the Mornington Main Street’s lacklustrer Christmas decorations, and I use the term decorations loosely.

But lo and behold a wondrous transformation has occurred and suddenly the Main Street is fun and festive and it’s all thanks to The Ladies Who Knit…and Crochet .

Well done to you all who ever you are. You have brought Christmas cheer back to Mornington.

Carole Saunders, Mornington

Support Local Independent Journalism

Christmas colour

After living in Mornington for a few years and seeing Christmas decorations of cardboard wrapped around poles with “Seasons Greetings” or “Happy Holidays” what a lovely surprise to finally see “Happy Christmas”. Whoever decided on this, thank you.

All we need now are a few twinkling lights in the trees on Main Street and it would look magical.

Happy Christmas everyone.

Anne Robinson, Mornington Bells for Christmas?

Walking on the paths of the peninsula, getting the steps up, listening to the birds and admiring the flowering plants is one of the precious pleasures of living in this part of the world.

We, at Somers, have received a walk ride path from Stans Reserve up to and joining a path along Sandy Point Road. It is 2 metres wide and runs between 500mm and 3 metres of the adjacent property lines. I am finding with increasing frequency, the need to shout after bike riders coming up behind and passing me unannounced to “Get a bell for Christmas”.

Common courtesy should suggest that using a simple, inexpensive tool such as a bike bell to warn a pedestrian in a timely fashion that you are coming up behind them and intend to pass, would be only logical. It seems it is not.

My biggest offending demographic seems to be 25 to 45+ males in lycra with all the trimmings.

Strange because I would have thought they would have been the best informed through their bike riding clubs and group touring packs. Can we, the schools, the bike riding clubs and parents address this issue?

What about a “buy a bike bell for Christmas” push? A stocking filler or a Chris Kringle. They only cost between $5 and $15 and would prevent an accident that may well avoid a retired or elderly person from spending Christmas in hospital.

To all those that do ring their bells, thank you. Michelle Gregory, Somers

The News

The title says it all. I imagine there is a dearth of letters congratulating The News on a job well done. But this is one.

I’m an avid reader, and recognise the steady emergence of an invaluable part of our Mornington Peninsula.

This letters page is always interesting, and reflects the range of views in our community. From those regular contributors who ‘can’t help themselves’ and provide pithy entertainment, to those with well known views, there are always letters that inform, surprise, and provide food for thought.

But the newspaper generally is a vital communication for our community. I’ve watched it steadily grow.

This week’s edition is a prime example of a journal that informs us of real news. From the amusing to the serious, there’s local information that we would never receive in any other way. You’re our watchdog on community, governance, and general information.

Well done on providing that vital link for the Mornington Peninsula. Long may it continue.

Mike Wilton, Safety Beach

Say a few words?

Pre-Christmas pondering. “Poverty is a personality defect” – Margaret Thatcher. Nonsense obviously, from a bully.

To say the Liberal Party is in a state of disarray is the understatement of my 89 years.

As good a time as any to sack 350 CSIRO workers? Christmas around the corner; from Hoffer, Eric “You can never get enough of what you don’t need to make you happy.”

I particularly like the line “Please put a penny in the old man’s hat.” Or Michael Leunig’s “There’s nowhere to turn - except the heavens and the stars.” True enough.

A calming effect, through these next six weeks; staying with Midsommer Murders, Poirot. Mark Twain: “In religion and politics, people’s beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination, from authorities who have not themselves examined the questions at issue, but have taken them at second-hand from other non-examiners, whose opinions about them were not worth a brass farthing.”

Wishing former WA senator Linda Reynolds compensation or at least an apology, facing bankruptcy (Brittany Higgins rape claim $2.4m settlement) not to mention the nasty responses from Anthony Albanese and Senator Penny Wong. Politics; Me first, public maybe; crooks; billions to the Yanks (AUKUS review?) and chopped out my $90 a quarter from electricity bills?

Finally cricket, being a Steve Smith man happy with the first two test results, not so no Steve Smith ‘man of the match’ - the next three of no concern. My Christmas message - smile, we are on Candid Camera. Even so...

Cliff Ellen, Rye

Beyond Blue here for you

The festive season can be a joyous time for many people, as they take a well-earned break from work and school and spend time with family and friends. It’s a time to rest and reset for the new year.

Yet for others, this time of year can be particularly difficult and distressing, and a time they hope will pass quickly.

It can bring additional financial pressures, strain relationships, and heighten feelings of loneliness. The festive season may also intensify isolation, particularly for those separated from family or grieving the loss of a loved one.

So, as we head into the holiday break, we want Australians to know that regardless of what they’re dealing with, they don’t have to face it alone.

The Beyond Blue Support Service is free, confidential, and available around the clock, including on Public Holidays. You can call 1300 22 46 36 or chat online at www.beyondblue.org. au/get-support.

It’s common to put off seeking help because we can’t quite find the words to express our needs. But when you contact us, you don’t have to know what to say. Our skilled counsellors will meet you where you’re at and guide you towards where you need to be.

And finally, a big thank-you to everyone who has donated to Beyond Blue this year. Our support service is run purely on donations, so your kindness and generosity allow us to always be there when people need us the most.

Georgie

Harman AO, CEO of Beyond Blue

We have been fighting for the residents of the Mornington Peninsula for nearly two decades. We aim to bring the best coverage possible to inform and connect your community. We ask for your support to continue producing weekly newspapers to keep quality local news alive!

Hastings Water Supply - Letter to the Editor

Compiled by Cameron McCullough SIR,

In a recent issue of your paper appeared a paragraph stating that “Mr. Williams of the State Rivers and Water Supply Commission had attended the Frankston Progress Association meeting with regard to the discoloration of the water, and a remedy was promised.”

Lucky Frankston to have water to growl at – we’ve got none at all –and luckier still are the ratepayers of Frankston who have got real live representatives to stand up for them.

Ella Wheeler Wilcox once wrote: “To sit in silence when we should protest makes cowards out of men.”

But apparently there are others who believe in the dictum of “Better a live coward than a dead hero”; for although Hastings has been mentioned every year since the water scheme was first put through and the estimates framed, there has been no voice of protest raised on our behalf. What is the cause? At school we were taught that “An atom was a particle that could be no further divided,” and it seems to me that the amount of interest taken by our representatives in the development and well-being of Hastings is small indeed when compared against the atom.

We can hear them talking that the “electric light will soon be on now,” but what good will that do? I grant you it is a great boon, but in the dry spells even its greatness is very much dwarfed against the boon a water supply would mean to the residents.

Just imagine a man coming in, say, from ploughing or wood-cutting, or from practically any of the out-door

occupations pursued by the great majority of men, and having a look at the accumulation of dirt, dust and grime that he has collected during the day, then turning on the electric light to get a better view of it, and dressing himself again because of the lack of water to have a decent wash.

Pleasant prospect, isn’t it?

Although the installation of the water would be a very great asset to the township and a definite step in the right direction, it would also bring along in its train another great improvement that is also very badly needed, and that is an efficient drainage system.

If our representatives were to look after our interests properly other places would not be getting all the plums in the financial pudding.

The reason why Hastings is as Hastings is, is because other councillors are wide awake enough to get their share of the funds for improvements, and a good whack of anyone else’s share that may be floating around.

But what a howl there would be if the residents of Hastings took up the attitude of “no improvements, no rates”? What a rush the Council would make for the Deportation Board.

Imagine the noise other councillors would make when the places they represent had to find the money for their own improvements, simply because the bottom had fallen out of the “Bank of Hastings,” because no rates were paid in.

The sooner action of some sort is taken the better, because then and not till then will the representatives sit up and take notice and call to mind that

the ratepayers of Hastings are entitled to a little bit for their money.

And, in conclusion, I would recommend our representatives to purchase a copy of that excellent poem, “The Psalm of Life”; study it very carefully, read, mark, learn and inwardly digest its import and act on just one line only, “Let us now be up and doing,” and prove that they are real representatives, and make a start by giving us an efficient drainage system and a water supply.

Frank Wavish, Hastings.

[Our correspondent seems to be under the impression that the Shire Council is responsible for the delay that has occurred in providing Hastings with a water supply. Such is not the case. The State Rivers and Water Supply Commission is the responsible body and provides the whole of the money for the undertaking. It has a scheme in hand for the extension of the water supply system throughout the Peninsula, embracing Hastings. A public meeting at Hastings might have the effect of hastening on the work. – Ed. “Standard”].

***

Balnarring And Bittern Races

The date of the Balnarring and Bittern races at the popular Emu Plains racecourse, has been definitely fixed for Saturday, January 30, 1926. This date will suit the sailors at the Naval Depot, and a large attendance from there is assured.

Mr. Wm. Cahill has been appointed handicapper for the four open races, and Messrs. Dave Buckley and J. Turner for the three district events. Mr. Joe Wren will supervise the bookmakers; this will completely cut out

PUZZLE ZONE

the “welshing” fraternity.

Mr. A. J. Grey will measure the ponies.

An effort is being made to hold an unregistered meeting at Flinders on New Year’s Day, but as the time is short it may be held later on in the year.

***

Personal - Miss Millie McCormack

The many friends of Miss Millie McCormack, late of Frankston, will be glad to learn of her further successes.

Miss McCormack is the adopted daughter of the late Police Sergeant McCormack, who was for some years stationed at Frankston.

It will be remembered that Miss Millie began her singing career at the early age of 12 years; when, as a competitor at the Ballarat competitions, she won eight prizes out of nine entries, under 16 years of age.

She gained the Albert Street Conservatorium singing scholarship in 1923, where she has studied music in all its tranches during the past three years, gaining her 1st, 2nd and 3rd year diploma with honors each year.

At the close of this year she was engaged by the Geelong Musical Society to sing the soprano solos in the great oratorio “The Messiah.”

Her teachers are unanimous that Miss McCormack will have a brilliant future in the singing world.

As she has recently accepted an offer from the 3LO broadcasting company, her friends will have a chance of hearing her from time to time.

Referring to her part in “The Messiah,” the Geelong “Advertiser” writes: “It is gratifying to be able

to record that the performance was a complete success, and that one of the principals in particular gave a rendition of the difficult music which delighted the large audience and gave splendid promise for her future.

We refer to the young soprano, Miss Millie McCormack, and it is paying no discourtesy to the other performers when we single out her work for special mention.

This talented young lady – she is only 20, and probably the youngest soloist who has sung with the society – has been studying under Miss Mary Campbell at the East Melbourne Conservatorium, and it will be remembered that this was made possible by the funds raised from two concerts in Geelong.

It is the more gratifying to be able to record that Miss McCormack last night, showed that we are already having some of the early fruits of her earlier promise.

Her first chance came in “Rejoice Greatly,” which contains both florid work and quiet passages, all of which were admirably and adequately filled by her pure girlish voice.”

***

MR. W. Lewis, son of Mr. T. Lewis, of Frankston, met with a painful accident last week. He was cycling through Mentone when he collided with a motor car. His hand was badly crushed, necessitating treatment at the Melbourne Hospital.

***

From the pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 18 December 1925

Scoreboard

Pines slip up, Red Hill win in a hurry

By Brodie Cowburn

PROVINCIAL

BADEN Powell handed Pines their first defeat of the season on Saturday.

After bowling Pines out for 159 on day one, Baden Powell came into day two last weekend full of confidence. They looked in control all day, going on to reach their target with six wickets to spare.

Dale Elmi and Aidan Wheeler put together the winning partnership. Elmi scored 58 from 98 deliveries and Wheeler scored 32 from 49.

Despite the loss, Pines remains top of the ladder. Baden Powell are fourth. Mornington and Red Hill finished the weekend in second and third respectively. Mornington enjoyed their clash with Sorrento on Saturday, emerging victorious.

The Bulldogs’ total of 229 proved too much for Sorrento to overcome.

Tom Panich’s spectacular 102 from 82 deliveries helped Mornington wrap up a comfortable 87 run win.

Red Hill were in a scoring mood on Saturday - they took less than 17 overs to chase down Dromana’s total of 165 at Dromana Recreation Reserve.

Openers Glenn Collett and Luke

Jackson were fantastic for Red Hill. Jackson hit 66 from 43 deliveries, and Collett scored 81 from 36. Red Hill won by seven wickets.

Langwarrin closed out the round with a four-wicket win over Heatherhill.

PENINSULA

LONG Island beat Rosebud in a thriller on Saturday.

Long Island were tasked with chasing down a target of 185. After a couple of hiccups in the middle order, Michael Burke and Justin Bridgeman took control of the run chase.

A late cameo of 29 from 22 by Chris Hay helped drag Long Island over the line. Long Island won by three wickets with five balls to spare.

Around the grounds, Somerville easily chased down their target of 90 against Seaford last weekend at Somerville Reserve. Balnarring were dominant winners over Moorooduc at Balnarring Recreation Reserve.

Ladder leaders Old Peninsula were tasked with defending a total of 223 against Mt Eliza on Saturday. Mt Eliza scored 157 in response.

DISTRICT

CARRUM Downs are now 6-1 in the 2025/2026 season after a hard-fought win over Carrum.

Carrum Downs was defending a total of 202 on Saturday. Michael O’Driscoll was their top-scorer on day one with an unbeaten 48.

Jake D’Atri was a thorn in Carrum Downs’ side on day two. He came in at number three and hit 92 from 230 deliveries to keep his side in the hunt.

D’Atri nearly dragged his side to victory on his own, but couldn’t finish the job. His was the final wicket to fall - Carrum was bowled out for 177.

Seaford Tigers beat Main Ridge on Saturday in a gritty match.

Chasing 148 to win, Seaford Tigers took their time. Skipper Jon Plakourakis hit 51 from 116 balls, and Luke Chevalier scored 42 from 189.

The Tigers locked up the win with three wickets left to spare towards the end of the day.

A brilliant unbeaten 82 from 88 deliveries helped Boneo pick up a good win over Rye last weekend.

SUB DISTRICT

SOME fantastic bowling from Ballam Park scored them a win over Frankston YCW on Saturday.

Ballam Park scored 169 runs on day one, offering Frankston YCW a chance at victory. The Stonecats’ run chase went very poorly on day two.

Runs were hard to come by for Frankston YCW. They ended up all out for just 110 runs after 55 overs.

Ezra Hughes was fantastic for Ballam Park, taking 4/34 from 20 overs. Thomas Baron posted impressive figures of 3/36 from 12 overs.

Tyabb were outright winners over Pearcedale on Saturday.

Pearcedale has already lost the match coming into day two, after Tyabb chased down their paltry first innings total of 59 with ease. The Yabbies declared for 130 and sent Pearcedale back in to bat.

Pearcedale fared better in their second innings, scoring 136 before being bowled out.

Tyabb took just 16 overs to reach Pearcedale’s target. Sashin Dilranga top-scored with 32 from 38.

WOMENS DIV ONE

A STAR showing from Katherine Laemmle helped ladder leaders Mt Martha pick up a win over Crib Point last weekend.

Laemmle was unstoppable with the bat. She smashed 100 runs from 64 deliveries, including 11 fours and 6 sixes. Mt Martha put together an unassailable total, scoring 221 from their 30 overs. Crib Point scored 141 in reply. Balnarring scored a good win away from home on Sunday, getting the better of Somerville.

Somerville batted first on their home deck. Jemma Reynolds tore through their top order - Somerville ended up all out for 115 off 29 overs.

Balnarring reached their target with eight wickets and three overs to spare. Brianna Watson top-scored with 40 from 72 deliveries.

Mt Eliza were dominant winners over Tyabb at Bunguyan Reserve on Sunday. Rye/Boneo also picked up a big win, beating Tooradin by 131 runs. Ella Hilton starred for Rye/Boneo. She scored an unbeaten century off 69 deliveries, hitting 8 fours and a six. Ahleigh Barrand also impressed with 51 from 70.

THE Bulldogs’ total of 229 proved too much for Sorrento. Picture: Paul Churcher

Peninsula crew takes on Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

ON Boxing Day, a crew of nine from Mornington Yacht Club will set sail in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race aboard the Ginan.

This will mark the first Sydney to Hobart for the boat, which is coowned by experienced yachtsmen Cam McKenzie and Nigel Jones.

The crew is predominantly local to the peninsula and consists of Marc Jukes, Greg Patten, Tim Bilham, Will McKenzie, David Kneed, James Jackson, and Ruben Gustafson.

For the crew, the race is not only a sporting challenge but a chance to showcase multiple generations united by long-standing friendships and a shared love for sailing.

Jukes said the group loves being a group of amateurs and that they are excited to compete against professional yachtsmen.

“It really means a lot for us to be sailing together as a team from the Mornington Peninsula,” Jukes said.

“Even though we span four different generations, there’s a real sort of camaraderie among us.”

Of the nine crew members, six of them have grown up sailing at Mornington Yacht Club. Among the youngest are Will McKenzie, son of owner Cam and a youth coach at Mornington, who is 22 years old, and James Jackson, a former Victorian Institute of Sport athlete who trained for Olympic selection in the 470 class.

Despite the age differences, their bond is longstanding. Some of them

have been racing together for three years on Ginan, while others have been sailing together for decades.

McKenzie and Jones have been friends since the 1990s and have completed ten Sydney to Hobarts, but this will be the first on a yacht they own. They have raced together and apart on yachts designed by Jones’ father Don, who was one of Australia’s most celebrated naval architects.

Although the Ginan is new to the Sydney to Hobart, they have an impressive track record in Victorian offshore racing.

“We’ve been very successful over the last three years in just about all the races we’ve entered,” Jukes said.

Under the leadership of Jones and McKenzie, the Ginan has sailed two Melbourne to Hobarts, coming second in both, and won the 2024 King Island

trophy after being the overall winners of the Melbourne to King Island Ocean Yacht Race, as well as several other races.

As the crew heads off to Sydney to prepare for the upcoming race, they are grateful for the community’s support and encouragement.

“We like to promote sailing, we like to promote youth participation, and I think it’s a good wholesome pastime for people to get involved with and we’d love their support,” Jukes said.

The crew is excited for the opportunity to compete against 140 other yachts as the 80th Sydney to Hobart takes place.

“What we enjoy is sailing as a group of friends and having that camaraderie and connection to the peninsula and trying to represent the area on a national yachting scene,” Jukes said.

Council set to approve new leases for tennis clubs

THE Mornington Peninsula Shire will consider a proposal to enter into new nine-year lease agreements with 17 community tennis clubs following months of unresolved issues over potential rent increases.

The proposed leases would apply to tennis clubs on council owned or managed land including Balnarring, Boneo, Crib Point, Dromana, Flinders, Hastings, Main Ridge, Mount Eliza, Mount Martha, Red Hill, Rosebud, Rye, Shoreham, Somers, Somerville, Tyabb, and Sorrento. Councillors will vote on the proposal during its meeting on 16 December.

The move follows previous council action in July last year to introduce new leases. However, concerns from tennis clubs over consultation processes and significant rent increases led the council to pause implementation at its April meeting.

Since then, council officers have worked with the clubs to develop a revised community lease and rental model that addresses these concerns.

As reported by The News, Cr Andrea Allen, key supporter of tennis clubs and ensuring their concerns were voiced, said after new lease agreements were made at the previous council’s 23 July meeting last year, “assurances were made to councillors at that meeting that the clubs had been consulted on these new leases”

Yanni

(Council steps back on court in tennis lease debate, The News 29/04/25).

“However, since then, clubs have indicated that they did not receive advance notice of the proposed rent increases or have any opportunity to discuss the broader implications of the lease changes,” she said.

The clubs, run largely by volunteers, have long-standing ties to their facilities and provide affordable and inclusive tennis and recreation programs for residents of all ages and abilities.

The programs aim to promote physical activity, social connection, and community wellbeing across the shire.

Under the proposed leases, the clubs would continue to deliver high-quality recreational programs that align with the council’s objectives for resilient and connected communities.

If approved, the lease terms would include a nine-year period with a starting sporting ground rent of $300 per lit tennis court per year and $120 per unlit court per year, plus GST.

Building rent would be set at either $500 or $1000 plus GST per year depending on building replacement value, with a fixed annual increase of three per cent.

The leases would be for the purpose of operating tennis clubs and associated recreational activities.

It’s OK at Mt Martha Bowls Club

ON Saturday 29 November the Mount Martha Bowls Club ran a most successful fundraising day to support the “It’s Okay, Not To Be Okay” charity.

Georgia Hocking spoke passionately about the work of “It’s Okay, Not To Be Okay” in the peninsula area. Georgia and her two sisters Maddi and Hayleigh founded this charity after the loss of their brother Ben to suicide in 2016. The charity focusses on mental health and suicide prevention.

Georgia also highlighted the role bowls clubs play in the prevention of mental health issues. Supportive comments were voiced by Federal member for Flinders, Zoe McKenzie, Mornington Mayor Cr Anthony Marsh and Bendigo Bank community liaison officer Gary Sanford. Mt Martha Bendigo Community Bank were a major sponsor of the event.

All Pennant matches involving the Mt Martha Club were played at Mt Martha with many wearing specially designed bowls polo’s for the event.

One hundred and sixteen lawn bowlers from clubs at Mornington Civic, Rosebud Beach, Blue Hills, Frankston and Rye joined Mt Martha in these pennant matches.

The Pennant bowls competition was held in the afternoon followed by a social gathering in the club rooms, some presentations and the

CRS Andrea Allen and Kate Roper with Peninsula Tennis Association secretary Michelle Vennelle and Sorrento Tennis Club members. Picture:

GINAN (above) and her crew (left). Pictures: Supplied

Pictures: Supplied

Scoreboard The

Rosebud United set for 2027

SOCCER

By Craig MacKenzie

PENINSULA football is set for the creation of a new power club with last week’s announcement of a planned merger between State 4 South-East club Rosebud and local junior club Rosebud Heart.

The new entity will be called Rosebud United and will compete in State Leagues in 2027. It is likely to field over 30 teams plus MiniRoos with established men’s and women’s programs. In a statement jointly signed by Rosebud president Delvina Spizzirri and Heart counterpart Rob Vosjan mention was made of a positive response to the merger from Football Victoria, Mornington Peninsula Shire and local state government representative Sam Groth.

During last season both Rosebud and Heart established a steering committee tasked with conducting a comprehensive case study of four community clubs that embodied many of the traits envisioned for the new Rosebud United.

These four clubs were Croydon Arrows, Ringwood City, Skye United and Chelsea and were selected for their “strong community foundations, robust boys’, girls’, men’s and women’s programs and membership levels of approximately 500–800 players.”

The eight member steering committee consisted of Rosebud’s Spizzirri, Stan Packer, Jason Symonds and Stuart Johnson while Heart’s representatives were Vosjan, Bernie Black, James Cinar and Andy Black.

Symonds is Rosebud’s senior coach and a life member and he gave a glowing endorsement of the merger announcement.

“Fantastic. The merger’s been a long time coming and is very positive for football on the southern peninsula,” he said.

“I’m very happy that it’s finally happening and it will be a really decent-sized club.”

The merger statement highlighted the on-field and off-field advantages to be gleaned from the creation of a powerhouse southern peninsula club.

“Both clubs recognise the strengths that come from unity and the benefits of creating a clear pathway for junior players to progress into senior football.

“Coming together as one club places us in a stronger position to plan for the facilities required for a growing and ambitious football community.”

One of the young guns expected to figure prominently in the new Rosebud United is current Rosebud ace Barney Johnson.

“It’s always good especially in a community club like Rosebud to have a proper pathway for players to move from junior to senior football,” he said.

“Having played at Mornington and at the clubs I played for in the UK there was definitely that element that was missing.

“It’s a really exciting time for the club as it’s the southernmost club on the peninsula with no real competition and a great opportunity to grow.”

The Chichester-born 22-year-old arrived in Melbourne seven years ago and immediately got

involved in the local scene.

He joined Mornington where he was coached in the under-15s by his current senior coach Symonds.

Johnson progressed to the reserves and trained regularly with the seniors under head coach Adam Jamieson but senior game time remained elusive.

“I had a heart-to-heart talk with ‘Jamo’ and we both felt I’d benefit from senior game time elsewhere.”

That prompted a switch to Rosebud in January 2023, the season in which the seniors finished fourth after a controversial points deduction.

Rosebud left nothing to chance the following season winning the State 5 South title by a comfortable margin.

“Winning the title last year was made even more exciting given the setback the previous year and to see the reaction of senior players who had never won a title before put things into perspective for me and made me realise what an achievement it really was.”

Finishing in the top six this year retained Rosebud’s league status for next season when teams from State 4 East join to form a new State 4 South-East division that is certain to be ultra competitive.

It’s a challenge that Johnson openly embraces.

“I’ll definitely be at Rosebud next year and we pride ourselves on the good blend we’ve established between younger guys and more experienced players.

“Our goal is promotion – if you’re not going for promotion you shouldn’t really be playing at

all and we’ll give it our best shot that’s for sure.”

Still in State 4 and Chelsea announced a number of major new signings last week laying bare its championship aspirations.

Retaining the most prolific scorer on the peninsula in James Stinson was quickly followed by announcing the captures of Michael Swinnerton, Marcus Anastasiou and Victor Cruz De Faria.

The versatile Swinnerton has captained Collingwood City at State 1 level, Anastasiou has been Somerville Eagles’ star striker for the past few seasons while central midfielder Cruz De Faria has captained Monash University.

In other news Football Victoria released the NPL, VPL and provisional State League fixtures last week.

Langwarrin plays its first three games at home then its next five away due to council works on Lawton Park.

Langy gets the season underway on Saturday 14 February against Noth Sunshine Eagles.

The under-20s kick off at 2.15pm, the under 23s at 4.30pm and the seniors at 7pm.

Chelsea kicks off the 2026 State League for local clubs on Friday 20 March hosting East Kew (6.30pm & 8pm).

Remaining fixtures for local clubs are all on Saturday 21 March.

Mornington is at home to Collingwood City (ground, KO times to be decided); Skye United hosts Mazenod (1pm & 3pm); Peninsula Strikers host Waverley City (12.45pm & 3pm); Baxter hosts Albert Park (1pm & 3pm); Rosebud hosts Ashburton (4pm & 6pm); Somerville Eagles host Fortuna 60 (1pm & 3pm); Seaford United is

away to Sandown Lions (1pm & 3pm); Frankston Pines hosts Mentone (4pm & 6pm); Mount Eliza is away to Old Ivanhoe (1pm & 3pm); Aspendale is away to Croydon Ranges (ground, KO times to be decided); and Mount Martha is away to Keysborough (5pm & 7pm).

In pre-season news Langwarrin suffered a body blow with star recruit Zach Bates fracturing his fibula and ankle in Tuesday’s 1-0 home loss to Box Hill United.

Bates has had surgery and is expected to miss most of the first half of next season.

“While Zac is a massive loss as he was a key signing we have other options who will now get an opportunity to make a contribution,” head coach Jamie Skelly said.

On Saturday morning Langy’s pre-Christmas friendly against Melbourne City at Lawton Park ended in a 3-0 loss but Skelly remained upbeat.

“This was another opportunity to build our fitness and new game style,” he said.

“And there were some really positive signs.

“We got good minutes into players and also took another opportunity for younger players to get some exposure against a top side.”

On Saturday afternoon Skye United beat Casey Comets 3-1 at Comets Stadium.

The match highlight was the hat-trick to Skye triallist Marcus Spivey.

The big striker has been scoring for fun with Mentone for the past few seasons and has finally decided that the time is right for a move.

Skye isn’t the only local club with Spivey on its radar.

Fast, Friendly & Fair

Selling your car privately can be lengthy, stressful and costly. At Peninsula Car Buyers, we have designed a service that allows you to sell your car in a way that is fast, friendly and fair! We purchase your vehicle directly from you, which offers an easy and simple alternative to traditional car-selling methods.

Our service is focused around you. From our onsite inspections to fast payments, you can sell your car quickly, from the comfort of your own home!

With over 25 years experience, we buy all makes and models at any price range.