Peninsula Wide

It's a shore thing

Welcome to the winter edition of Peninsula Wide.

It’s an honour to be elected as Mayor to represent our community

at such a critical time. I’m working closely with my fellow Councillors, community groups and Shire officers to advocate for your needs and deliver real outcomes.

The articles in this winter edition reflect the diverse and extensive range of Shire services, projects and events. From the Container Deposit Scheme, the Seniors Festival and solar power for Pelican Park, it’s all covered here.

I’m proud we have now adopted our 2026–27 Budget. It reflects what we’ve heard from you and delivers where it matters most. Over four weeks, hundreds of community members shared feedback, helping us shape a balanced and responsible Budget in a challenging economic climate. We’ve taken steps to ease cost-ofliving pressures, including reducing the proposed waste charge and

keeping rate increases low — about $1 per week for the average household. At the same time, we’re maintaining essential services and investing in our future.

Roads remain your top priority and we’re responding with a 24 per cent boost to roads and drainage funding, alongside a strong capital works program. Thank you for helping shape a sustainable Budget.

Bin chickens im-peck-able recycling success

Rotarians Peter Rawlings, Kevin Gibson and Rob Davies recycle containers to support community projects.

They’re at 835,000 containers and counting!

The Rotary Club of Mount Martha’s ‘bin chickens’ head out daily collecting containers and the results are impressive.

Thanks to the dedicated Rotarians, eligible containers including aluminium cans and plastic bottles have been recycled via the Container Deposit Scheme – enabling the volunteers to put just under $100,000 back into the community.

Rob Davies, the driving force behind the club’s Containers 4 Community project, said it was a matter of “thinking opportunity and not waste”.

“Since the State Government Container Deposit Scheme was launched in November 2023, we’ve collected eligible containers – enabling us to partner with 35 local organisations and support a range of important initiatives and programs.”

The Rotarians collect the containers from both their own bins at select locations and baskets installed by the Shire next to bins across the Peninsula.

The Shire supports the community to collect CDS eligible containers and cash them in at any of the return points around the Peninsula.

We encourage businesses, sports clubs, community groups and individuals to engage in the scheme and return the high value material for recycling, with the benefits of some extra funds and keeping our Peninsula clean of littler. It’s a win-win! mountmartharotary.org.au

Communityled solution

We’ve installed Container Deposit Scheme exchange baskets next to bins at 90 locations across the Peninsula.

Leave eligible, empty drink containers in the basket — or collect ones already there and return them to a CDS refund point to receive a 10-cent refund.

This provides a practical, community-led solution to recover containers and cut down on litter. mornpen.vic.gov.au/ cds-baskets

Budget highlights

Delivering what matters most!

$22.8M investment in road, drainage and footpath improvements including:

• $2.9M Blackspot road safety improvements at high-risk locations

• $2.7M Creswell St East Crib Point road construction

• $1.4M Footpath Renewal Program

• $350K Beleura Path reinstatement

• $500K Rosebud Memorial Hall improvements

• $140K Fishermans Beach South amenity renewal

• $1.2M Foreshore camping upgrades

• $968K Emergency drainage works

• $204K Stormwater pipe renewal Rosebud

Investing in our community

Our 2026–27 Budget delivers what matters most to our community. Hundreds of community members commented on the draft and their input directly influenced the final Budget.

You asked for a reduction in proposed waste charges and we delivered. You told us roads continued to be your top priority and we boosted spending on roads and drainage by 24 per cent. You overwhelmingly supported the 2.75 per cent rates cap – rather than a rates freeze or rebate – to maintain current service levels.

The result is a Budget that delivers what matters while maintaining long-term financial sustainability in a challenging economic environment.

• $1.3M Hastings Park upgrades

• $550K Red Hill Reserve infrastructure

• $345K Sorrento Tennis Club court resurfacing

• $305K new playground David MacFarlan Reserve

• $250K new playground Red Hill South

• $110K Bike Parks at BA Cairns Reserve and Curlew Drives Reserve

• $650K Narambi Reserve drainage and irrigation

• $200K coastal infrastructure renewal

• $50K improved water quality, Balcombe Estuary

• $385K Solar and battery roll-out at 13 Shire facilities

• $80K LED Lighting Upgrades at priority Shire facilities

• $530K Sports lighting LED upgrades at key reserves

• $432K heating, cooling and hot water system replacement at Shire facilities

Our Budget features $4 million for community grants and subsidies to support local organisations to deliver essential services, events and festivals. This includes $1 million in community capital infrastructure grants for local organisations to partner with Council and work together on key projects. mornpen.vic.gov.au/budget

Our Peninsula

Building a better tomorrow

Protecting our much-loved

wildlife

Wildlife-vehicle collisions on the Peninsula have risen by about 135 per cent over the past four years.

That’s why we’ve partnered with Wildlife Victoria to reduce wildlife road trauma and make local roads safer for wildlife and drivers.

Through the Wildlife Roadtoll Action Program, the Shire has committed to a threeyear partnership with Wildlife Victoria and will use collision data and analysis of hotspots to guide action where it is most needed.

The partnership with Wildlife Victoria gives us stronger data to understand where wildlife collisions are happening and what’s causing them.

The Shire will work with local wildlife groups to develop practical actions, including initiatives to reduce wildlife road strike through the refreshed Mornington Peninsula Towards Zero Road Safety Strategy.

The draft road safety strategy is anticipated to be exhibition for community comment later this year.

Seven new homes being built in Hastings will provide a critical lifeline for women and children experiencing housing insecurity.

Mayor Stephen Batty joined Councillors

Michael Stephens and Kate Roper, Hastings MP Paul Mercurio and representatives from

Women’s Property Initiatives (WPI) and community support centres for a sod turning ceremony to launch the project.

Mayor Batty said the Shire has supported the project by providing the land on a long-term peppercorn lease – demonstrating our commitment to

working in partnership to increase social and affordable housing across the Peninsula.

“These seven homes will make a real difference for women in Hastings, providing safety, stability and a place to call home,” he said.

Delivered by Women’s Property Initiatives in partnership with the Shire and funded by Homes Victoria through the State Government’s Big Housing Build, the $4.5 million development will deliver safe, modern and energy-efficient homes for women on the priority housing list.

Q&A with Barry

mornpen.vic.gov.au/seniorsfestival

Barry loves celebrating the Shire's Seniors Festival in October and exploring new events.

You’re a Seniors Festival regular – what’s the best thing about it? It’s valuable meeting other participants and finding out about events they recommend. The festival guide is super helpful. It allows me to easily find new opportunities to explore.

What’s been your favourite event to attend over the years?

The standout for me was in 2024 at the Get Active Expo at Camp Manyung where I tried the giant swing. I also found my cardio was sadly lacking after walking from the road up the hill to the venue which resulted in me returning to the gym after a 10 year plus absence!

Which event or activity has most pushed you out of the comfort zone?

The giant swing was a risk, as I'm hesitant being higher off the ground than my home’s roof gutters. As the swing started, I quickly relaxed and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

And the one that’s surprised you the most?

Charlie's Auto Museum was a standout with the extensive range of cars on display, many of which I had not seen previously.

Tell us about the sessions you facilitate?

Learn more about your iPad and iPhone for two hours with the first hour on a specific topic and second hour a Q&A session on any Apple product. All provided by the Apple Users Society of Melbourne (AUSOM 1980-2026). During 2026 at the Mornington

Community House AUSOM also presents a monthly two-hour session from February to December with three additional sessions in October. All are free.

What’s the most common question asked at your sessions?

There are a wide range of questions including how do I find my best upgrade option, how do I get more storage, which app do I use and how do I secure my device?

Last year’s Seniors Festival events were attended by 80 per cent women. What would you say to men about attending?

I encourage more men to join in the activities. There’s much to be gained. I’ve met people, learnt something new and gained confidence.

Mental health support for young people

headspace Rosebud has moved to the Shire’s Tounnin Wominjeka Youth Hub.

The new site was designed with and for young people, featuring fresh and colourful spaces, along with purpose-built rooms for consultations, groups, GPs, families and a sensory area. The site is a short walk from the YAWA Aquatic Centre and close to bus stops.

headspace Rosebud is a voluntary, free to low-cost and confidential health service for young people aged 12–25 years in the Southern Peninsula. The service supports young people with mental health, alcohol and other drug services, work and study support and soon to expand to offer physical health (including sexual health).

It is an inclusive service and a safe space for all young people. headspace Rosebud also has a Youth Advisory Committee for young people aged 16–25 who are passionate about mental health and advocacy and live, work or study in the Southern Peninsula area.

Tounnin Wominjeka Youth Hub, 80 Besgrove St, Rosebud. headspace.org.au/rosebud

Solar panels deliver real benefits at Pelican Park

We’ve secured funding to install solar panels and electrify Pelican Park Recreation Centre.

The upgrade represents an investment of more than $1.5 million, with the Shire

matching the Australian Government funding.

Design is now underway with construction expected to be undertaken in the 2027/28 financial year.

Pelican Park Recreation Centre underwent a full revitalisation in 2025 to accommodate the energy upgrades.

The project will pay for itself in just over six years and supports the Shire’s

long-term energy saving goals.

Cr Michael Stephens said: “The project remains an important capital upgrade that will benefit Hastings and the broader Western Port region.”

Our Peninsula

Your waste service is changing next year

The State Government is introducing new legislation for waste services to reduce contamination in our bins and help drive waste disposal costs down.

Since 2021, the State Government landfill levy increased by 126 per cent, making it more costly to dispose of waste.

Another bin? Just for glass?

The State Government has directed councils to roll out a separate glass bin. Another bin means higher costs.

We believe expanding the Container Deposit Scheme to include wine and spirit bottles could deliver the same recycling benefits as an additional bin at a fraction of the cost. Have your say: mornpen.vic.gov.au/ wastereform

The Shire will start rolling out food and garden waste (FOGO) bins to all households who don’t already have this bin next year.

The FOGO bin is handy – you can dispose of garden waste, as well as all types of food scraps!

What goes into the FOGO bin becomes nutritious compost for farmers.

When people use this bin right, we can reduce the amount of waste we send to landfill by up to 40 per cent! This is good for the environment and makes sense financially because landfill fees are so high.

To reduce confusion and contamination, the state has ordered all councils to have uniform bin lid colours. Yellow for recycling, green for food and garden waste (FOGO) and red for landfill. We'll keep you updated on the bin lid changeover process throughout next year.

Reduce your energy bills

Check out the home electrification made easy workshop at Hastings Library, High St, on Tuesday 27 October, 10 –11.30am. Find out about:

• How to reduce your energy bills and create a more comfortable, healthy home.

• Pricing of home energy upgrade products.

• Discounts, rebates and no-interest loans.

• Free energy consultations and Home Energy kits. Bookings: mornpen.vic.gov.au/home-electrification

Free green waste weekends

Be sure to put this in your calendar! The next no charge green waste weekends will be held on 14-16 August and 23-25 October. mornpen.vic.gov.au/fogo

Shire honoured for excellence

A fantastic result for the Shire at the 2026 Local Government Professionals (LGPro) Awards for Excellence — two category wins and two finalist recognitions!

Winner – First Nations Community Partnership

Ngawak Biik – Briars Junior Ranger project

A culturally led program connecting First Nations young people to Country, with congratulations to Jo Fyfe, Carissa Watts, Maya Coff and Isaiah Columbine, along with the broader Briars and Destinations teams.

Winner – Diversity and Inclusion

All Abilities Boating – Hastings pontoon hoist

An outstanding project improving accessibility to boating, thanks to Monica Seal, Lauren Carlomagno working in partnership with Better Boating Victoria, Hastings Yacht Club, Wallara and Westernport Marina.

Finalist – Best Practice and Innovation in Council Plan Development

Council Strategic Planning Project 2025–29

A significant whole-of-organisation effort delivering key strategic plans, led by Jarrod Lawson and Jackie Thorne, with contributions from many teams across the Shire.

Finalist – Community Partnerships

Radio Western Port

A collaborative initiative strengthening community connection and learning, led by Marisel Lassalle and Tricia Folvig. Shire funding supported establishment of Radio Western Port with programs recorded by locals.

Small Business Festival

Discover new ideas, sharpen your thinking and connect with people who can help your business grow! With around 20 events running throughout August, the Small Business Festival will support our local business community.

The festival features workshops, webinars and networking opportunities covering topics like AI, marketing, finance, sustainability, leadership and business growth. Led by local experts, each session will give business owners practical tools, fresh ideas and meaningful connections.

Whether you’re running a small business, thinking about starting one or simply want to connect with like-minded people, the festival is a great way to get inspired. mpbusiness.com.au/small-business-festival

Festival shines in October

Celebrate ageing well at Seniors Festival events on the Peninsula.

The festival offers an amazing and diverse range of social, educational and fun activities. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover new interests, connect with others and revisit past interests. mornpen.vic.gov.au/ seniorsfestival

Our Peninsula

Stay active across the Peninsula

Our Mornington Peninsula Shire Active website is live.

The new look website reflects our vision –a connected, thriving Mornington Peninsula community! With reciprocal access across five venues including Civic Reserve Recreation Centre, Somerville Recreation Centre, Pelican Park Recreation Centre, Yawa Aquatic Centre and seasonal Crib Point Outdoor Pool, staying connected and active has never been more accessible.

We deliver inclusive programs and services that support all bodies and every stage of life. Our offerings include tailored programs for older adults and people living with chronic illness or disability, opportunities to learn the lifesaving skill of swimming through our Swimming Australia endorsed GOswim program and access to our Wellness Centre at Pelican Park. Our venues are spaces to connect and build social wellbeing. active.mornpen.vic.gov.au

The fantastic five – our awesome venues!

With one membership, you enjoy access across five Mornington Peninsula Shire Active aquatic and recreation venues including:

• three aquatic venues featuring warm water pools, spas, steam rooms and saunas.

• two stadium venues supporting social sports such as pickleball, badminton and basketball.

• four group fitness locations delivering 379 classes weekly.

• two reformer Pilates studios offering 121 classes per week.

• aqua aerobics with 60 classes per week.

• three recovery zones equipped with massage chairs, compression boots and self-guided recovery tools.

• gym floor functional training with 115 facilitated sessions per week.

• destination cafes/kiosks.

• three health clubs, with an exciting new Somerville Health Club launching soon.

• a dedicated wellness centre supporting a growing and evolving wellness offering to come at Somerville Recreation Centre.

For all your health and wellbeing needs, visit active.mornpen. vic.gov.au

New defibrillator

A new Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has been installed at the Mount Eliza Village Green, providing an important community safety resource in the heart of the village. The AED was made possible through a generous donation from Community Bank Mount Eliza, in partnership with Ranelagh Club, with the Shire coordinating and completing the installation.

This partnership demonstrates the value of local organisations working together to deliver practical benefits that support community wellbeing and safety. The device is publicly accessible to assist in the event of a cardiac emergency, helping to improve emergency response times and potentially save lives.

Keeping our community safe

We have upgraded our CCTV network with 34 enhanced units. The upgraded cameras feature cloud-based technology that enables Victoria Police to view footage from multiple devices while on patrol, improving response times and investigative capabilities. The installation follows Council's $500,000 investment in the 2025–26 Budget to upgrade and repair the Shire's CCTV system, ensuring the network is fully operational and able to support Victoria Police.

Community Investment Funding

Are you part of a community group/organisation or do you have a project that would benefit our Peninsula townships?

Council’s Community Investment Funding opened recently, offering support to community-led projects that bring people together, strengthen community cohesion and deliver real outcomes across.

We look forward to supporting your initiatives for a more connected, inclusive and vibrant Peninsula! mornpen.vic.gov.au/grants communityinvestfunding@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Funding Finder

Our ‘Funding Finder’ website features a comprehensive list of grant and funding opportunities available to your organisations from various levels of government and other funding bodies.

Register to get alerts for new grants, save your favourites and access tips to help you apply for grants: grantguru.com/au/ morningtonpeninsulashire/register

Check out the Funding Finder at grantguru.com/au/ morningtonpeninsulashire

Our advocacy

Our Shire is one of Victoria's most unique places to live, work and visit.

Our advocacy priorities focus on five key areas:

Improving road safety

Protecting our beaches and natural environment

Addressing housing and homelessness

Strengthening community health and wellbeing

Delivering better transport and connections across the region

As the 2026 state election approaches, the Shire is calling on all political parties and candidates to back the infrastructure and services our growing community needs.

Through our Shout Out for the Peninsula advocacy campaign, we're seeking State Government investment in the projects that will make the biggest difference to residents across the Peninsula.

These priorities have been developed to support local communities today while planning for the Peninsula's future. Whether it's safer roads, improved healthcare, better public transport, protecting our iconic coastline or ensuring vulnerable people have access to housing and support, these are investments that will benefit residents, businesses and the millions of visitors who come to the Peninsula.

Strong community voice

Strong advocacy is most effective when it is backed by a strong community voice. That's why we're encouraging residents, businesses and community groups to get involved by asking local candidates where they stand on the issues that matter most, following our advocacy campaign and sharing our priorities with family and friends.

Every voice helps strengthen our message.

This election is an opportunity to ensure the Peninsula receives the investment it deserves. Together, we can help deliver the infrastructure, services and support needed to keep the Peninsula a great place to live, work and visit for generations to come. mornpen.vic.gov.au/shoutout

We're backing community calls for a redevelopment of Rosebud Hospital. Picture: Yanni Dellaportas

Beek Beek

We are lucky to have many community groups making this a fantastic place to live.

I was pleased to attend Peninsula North Men’s Shed Mother’s Day Go Pink lunch raising money for the Jane McGrath Foundation. To get involved, visit: pnmsbaxter.org.au

Peninsula Aero Club presented funds raised by the Tyabb Airshow to local groups including Kindred Clubhouse, Its Okay Not to be Okay, Tyabb CFA, Hastings SES and Tyabb Junior FNC. These funds make a huge difference. Somerville Business Group held a clean-up day in Somerville along the railway line. They are also finalising works on the public toilet block opposite Aldi with a grant from the Shire.

The Somerville Recreation Reserve Master Plan marks a step forward in getting updated facilities at Jones Rd.

Our new grants round is open with $1.6 million in grants. You can apply for grants for all sorts of projects from tree planting to small infrastructure projects. It all adds up to improvements in where we live. mornpen.vic.gov.au/cif communityinvestfunding@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Bach to the future at Somerville

Don’t miss Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s ‘In Your Neighbourhood’ performance at Somerville Recreation Centre on 23 September. This exciting event brings the renowned MSO closer to local audiences, offering an accessible and family-friendly cultural experience.

Audiences will enjoy an inspiring evening featuring orchestral masterworks led by some of the country’s most promising young conductors.

Tickets $10 with $3 transaction free. Children free. Somerville Recreation Centre, 14 Edward St. mso.com.au/mornington

Home advantage at Tyabb!

Sports loving juniors at Tyabb have received a boost with a new ground shelter. Tyabb Junior Football Netball Club’s new shelter at oval two is thanks to a $18,400 Shire Local Area Community Capital Infrastructure Grant – improving comfort, safety and usability of the shared ground.

Local road upgrades

Upcoming works are planned for Eramosa Rd East and Bungower Rd. A full-depth pavement rehabilitation for Eramosa Road East, between Lower Somerville Rd and Dandenong-Hastings Rd, will address the poor condition surface of the existing road.

Funded via the Federal Roads to Recovery program, the project has a $2.6m budget with works anticipated to start in September and be completed by late 2026.

Full-depth pavement rehabilitation is planned for Bungower Rd, between Dandenong-Hastings Rd and Tyabb-Tooradin Rd. Funded by the Federal Roads to Recovery program, the project has a $2.65m budget with works anticipated to start from March 2027 and be completed by mid-2027.

Many of the issues we encounter need State Government intervention and support.

As the state election approaches, keep an eye out for the Council’s advocacy asks and talk to candidates about their willingness to support Council. See more online: mornpen.vic.gov.au/shoutout

Key to our advocacy is further support to address homelessness, including $700,000 for assertive outreach, $15 million for transitional (or medium term) accommodation and $80,000 for Functional Zero funding. With the number of active rough sleepers growing from 114 to 168 in the last six months, the need is now more important than ever.

Design and works are progressing on Rosebud Memorial Hall and Dromana Bowls Club. Leura Crescent drainage upgrades are completed.

A funding application is being developed for submission in the 2027/28 Blackspot Program for area wide safety treatments in McCrae, looking at improving safety in the residential areas between Lonsdale St and Foote St.

Food Voucher Fund provides vital support

Southern Peninsula Community Support (SPCS) is seeing a sharp rise in people seeking help as costof-living pressures continue to impact local families, older residents and individuals across the Southern Mornington Peninsula.

SPCS supports nearly 2,000 people each year with an estimated 1,300 people currently at risk of homelessness. One of the most urgent needs is food and fuel support, with demand for food vouchers increasing significantly in recent months.

These vouchers help families put food on the table and fuel in their cars so they can continue working, attending school and accessing essential services. SPCS is calling on the community to support its Food Voucher Fund and help people through difficult times. To donate or learn more, visit: spcsic.org 5986 1285 Southern Peninsula Community Support, 878 Point Nepean Rd, Rosebud

Water safety boost

A $5,000 Community Support Grant will help Rosebud and McCrae Life Saving Club buy a new patrol trailer.

It will provide a dedicated and mobile storage solution for critical lifesaving equipment, including rescue boards, tubes, first aid kits, communication devices and training gear. By creating a single, reliable deployment point, the trailer will improve efficiency during patrols, training sessions and emergency responses. The trailer will ensure essential equipment is easily accessible when needed, supporting faster and more coordinated action on the beach.

rosebudmccraelsc.com.au

Briars

Fishy story enthrals!

Eastern dwarf galaxias, listed as an endangered fish at a state and national level, are rebounding at The Briars. Conservation and Wildlife Lead at The Briars, Lachlan Gordon, said the increase of the small fish from around 40 to more than 400 in a single breeding season

was an “exceptional outcome”.

“It shows the wetland conditions are now closely aligned with what the species needs to survive and reproduce,” he said.

In partnership with Gemma Walker from Ecology Australia,

Healthy living

the team reshaped how water moves through the wetland, adjusting the timing and duration to better reflect natural flooding and drying cycles. This work forms part of the Briars Arc Program, which is helping protect vulnerable species and strengthen local ecosystems.

We’re embracing healthy living at The Briars’ Eco Living Display Centre. Registrations essential: mornpen.vic.gov.au/ enviroworkshops

Young

footy stars kick on

Mornington Junior Football Club’s clubrooms are being upgraded thanks to a $48,000 Shire Local Area Community Capital Infrastructure Grant.

The upgrade includes a kitchen renovation, storage, reconfiguring change rooms, as well as minor works such as painting and flooring updates.

The improvements will create a more welcoming, accessible and practical facilities for training, match days and community events – supporting participation in junior sport and community use of the clubrooms.

Healthy and Sustainable Homes Workshop

Saturday 5 September 1-2.30pm

Discover how to create a home that truly supports your wellbeing.

Create Your Own Natural Beauty Products

Saturday 3 October 1-3pm

Learn how to make your own natural, chemical free beauty products.

I’m excited to announce safe street upgrades for Brokil Ward.

This winter, we are improving the safety of local streets in Dromana.

We’re constructing two compact roundabouts on Heales St at the Hodgkinson and Ligar intersections. Roundabouts are one of the safest types of intersections because they slow the flow of traffic and guide vehicles in one direction, reducing the risk and severity of crashes.

Works also include raised safety platforms at Watson Ave and at Dromana Ave/Covery Ave. These treatments slow vehicle speeds and reduce the risk of crashes in busy pedestrian areas, residential streets and around intersections.

These works are funded by the Victorian Government through the Safe Local Roads and Streets Program, which is providing $214 million to make local roads safer. mornpen.vic.gov.au/safelocalroads

Enjoy Family Storytime and hands-on afterschool STEM activities with Our Library Van (OLiV) at Dromana Community House, 15 Gibson St, every second Wednesday 2–5pm. library.mornpen.vic.gov.au/oliv-events

Making waves for water safety

Coast Guard Safety Beach has been awarded a $1,535 Shire Flexi Grant for a new branded marquee.

The marquee, featuring the flotilla’s royal blue colours and logo, will be used at community events including barbecues and local activities.

The new marquee will strengthen the Australian Volunteer Coast Guard's presence across the Peninsula, helping to engage with the local community and raise awareness of boating safety and the vital marine rescue services they provide.

Music talent amplified at Dromana

Four days of live music, unexpected spaces and a transformed industrial precinct. The ‘Dromana Weekender’, featured as the second Peninsula LIVE micro-festival, brought the program to the Dromana industrial estate.

Following the success of first micro-festival in Balnarring, Dromana was selected for the next phase of the initiative, testing how industrial and maker spaces could be transformed into a walkable live music precinct. Across four days, the estate was activated with free, allages performances in non-traditional venues, turning breweries, distilleries, streets and businesses into stages.

Presented by Mornington Peninsula Shire in partnership with Live Music Office, OneMusic Australia and APRA AMCOS, the program was delivered in collaboration with Dromana industrial estate businesses, who hosted performances and helped bring the precinct to life.

Coolart

What we’re funding in Coolart

Merricks Pony Club, State Qualifier Showjumping

$1,450

Peninsula Surfriders $15K

Main Ridge Men's Shed, charcuterie group $5K

Mother’s Day treat

Southern Peninsula Choir dished up a Mother’s Day treat at Flinders Hall. Thanks to a Shire Community Support Grant, Southern Peninsula Choir in partnership with ProMusica Arizona’s choir and orchestra performed a program of thought-provoking choral works by living Australian and American composers.

Concert-goers were immersed in the soundscapes of the two combined choirs for ‘Saguaro’ – accompanied by an orchestra of touring instrumentalists plus local musicians, complemented by photos and lyrics. The program explored the theme of resilience.

Balnarring Preschool, First Peoples cultural workshops experiences $10K

Red Hill Tennis Club, hardcourt resurfacing

$30K

Flinders Lions, Flinders Motoring Heritage

Friends of Coolart, community picnic

$3K

$6K

Shoreham Community Association, outdoor movie night $2,365

Balnarring Hub, Summer Solstice and Land Naming Ceremony

$6,550

Peninsula Surfriders Club, East Coast Comp -

St Andrews Beach Recreation Club, connecting our local community: upskilling volunteers to build club capacity and sustainability $4,498

Red Hill Memorial Preschool & Infant Welfare Centre, defibrillator $2K

Friends of Fenton Hall, site planting $14.5K

Caring for our environment

A pilot environmental education program hosted by Somers Residents’ Association has highlighted protection of Western Port Bay.

The Western Port Community Environmental Education and Stewardship Program – funded by a $5,000 Shire Community Support Grant – brought together residents, educators and organisations at Somers Yacht Club to build knowledge and skills in understanding and protecting the bay’s ecological significance. Sessions, supported by marine biologists and science communicators, featured collaborative learning, storytelling and resource development.

Balnarring Bowls and Social Club, acoustic ceiling tiles for function room $10,104

Main Ridge Bowls and Petanque Club, clubhouse upgrade $36K

Balnarring Community Child Care, Strong Beginnings: A Safer Entry for Every Child $7.5K

Flinders Tennis Club, tennis court resurfacing and provision for 4 pickleball courts $50K

Red Hill Agricultural & Horticultural Society, cattle yard upgrades

$47K

Main Ridge CFA, water tank $45K

Shoreham Tennis Club, maintenance and upgrade $37K

Kackeraboite

It has been another busy and productive period with several projects underway and recently completed that enhance our community.

The recent production of The Block has now wrapped up in Mount Eliza. I would like to thank residents and local businesses for their patience and understanding during filming. While there was some temporary disruption, it also provided an opportunity to showcase our township and community to a national and international audience.

Mount Eliza residents can now enjoy improved lighting at the Village Green following the completion of recent upgrades. The works included dedicated lighting for the flagpole and replacement of the existing tree lighting, further improving the amenity of this much-loved community space.

Construction is also continuing on the Canadian Bay Carpark and Surrounds Renewal Project, which will deliver improved accessibility, safer pedestrian connections and upgraded facilities at one of our most popular coastal destinations.

Residents will also see progress on the Woodlands Local Area Traffic Management Project and further investment in our road network, including planned improvements to a number of our roads in this area.

Alice’s curious adventure at Mount Eliza!

Mount Eliza Community Pantomime took audiences down the rabbit hole in a delightful production of Alice in Wonderland. Established in 2018 by locals Kate

Mount Eliza CFA’s 90 years of proud service

For 90 years, Mount Eliza Fire Brigade has proudly served and protected the local community through dedication, professionalism and volunteer spirit.

Since 1936, generations of highly trained local volunteers have responded to fires, rescues and emergencies across Mount Eliza and Victoria, providing support when the community needs it most. Made up of locals, brigade members commit countless hours to training, emergency response and community education while balancing work, family and everyday life.

Beyond emergency response, the brigade remains a valued part of the Mount Eliza community through local events, support initiatives and public education. As the brigade marks its 90th anniversary, it proudly acknowledges the volunteers, families and supporters whose commitment and service have helped keep the community safe for generations. mtelizacfa.com.au

Driver, Cameron McAdam, Mandy Mannion and Christy Nash, the group shares a love of community theatre and pantomime.

Partnering with the Village Church Mount Eliza, the mission is to bring a fun, inclusive and accessible theatre experience to Mount Eliza.

The panto company is supported by the community, Village Church, the Shire and other theatre groups. The annual production plays to packed houses on the June long weekend.

Follow the group on Facebook or email mountelizapanto@ gmail.com

Picture: Jeff Mullins

Moorooduc

We’re committed to advocating to the State Government for traffic signals at the MorningtonTyabb Rd and Racecourse Rd intersection and limited duplication of Mornington-Tyabb Rd through to the Nepean Highway/ Mornington-Tyabb Rd intersection.

Council endorsed this as one of its key transport/road safety advocacy projects.

In other news, we’re getting on with the job of building the eastern pavilion, a new $8.8 million multipurpose building – featuring inclusive, accessible facilities and spaces that support junior and adult participation for both male, female players and officials (soccer, AFL, cricket and netball) – at Emil Madsen Reserve. Works due to be completed by November.

We are also progressing the detailed design for the replacement of the existing football and cricket western pavilion at Emil Madsen and other key improvements across the site.

We've received $323,000 through the Blackspot Program for a road safety project along Bentons Rd (between Dunns and Racecourse roads) for raised platforms.

Grounds for celebration at Mornington

A $13,140 grant from the Mornington Peninsula's Community Charitable Fund has been approved by the Lord Mayor's Charitable Foundation to support HomeGround Cafe as a vital community enterprise in Mornington.

The grant funding will enhance the cafe’s role in delivering hospitality traineeships for young people facing barriers to employment and ‘In This Together’ –a volunteer-led program providing around 150 meals each week to vulnerable community members.

Investment will include a commercial dishwasher vital to their operations and support traineeship experience costs as well as improve kitchen safety and efficiency, while supporting hands-on training opportunities. The Fund is an initiative of the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Fund and the Shire.

HomeGround Cafe, 22 Robertson Dve, Mornington homegroundcoffeeco.com.au

National Works on Paper at MPRG

Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery presents the return of the National Works on Paper (NWOP) – one of Australia’s leading exhibitions celebrating contemporary art on paper – from 5 September to 22 November. From drawing and printmaking to experimental and sculptural forms, the exhibition highlights the diverse ways artists continue to push the boundaries of paper. MPRG, Civic Reserve, Dunns Rd, Mornington. mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au

Jacky Cheng, … that awaits at the end of life, 2022 and (right) Djakanyu Yunupinyu, Gurmilili, 2024, National Works on Paper 2024. Picture: Kinfolk Imagery

Brew beauty! Operations Manager Bev at HomeGround Cafe.

Nepean

In the past few months, we had the official opening of the new enclosed four wicket cricket training facility at RJ Rowley Reserve in Rye.

This was jointly funded by a $246,000 grant from the State Government’s Local Sport Infrastructure Fund and a $164,000 contribution from the Shire. We also had a busy fourth Sorrento Writers Festival with 175 events across five days, supported by 202 volunteers and a Shire sponsorship.

Two new netball courts were completed at David MacFarlan Reserve at Sorrento. As expected, having the courts relocated to within the reserve and near the clubrooms has been a great step forward for the Sorrento Sharks Football and Netball Club. This $1.3m project was funded by the Shire in the 2025–26 Budget.

We also had the Rye Community Festival in May, which was supported by a Shire Community Events Grant (see image below). Thanks to all who contributed to organising and participating in this successful event. It was a great way for locals to celebrate the recent transformation of the Rye foreshore area.

Brush of coastal colour at Rye

Rye’s seaside vitality is on display thanks to eyecatching marine and coastal-themed murals.

Supported by an $8,470 Shire Placemaking Grant, stunning artworks are featured on the Rye Lions Shelter at the foreshore and on shade-sail bollards near the Civic Centre – adding vibrant visual storytelling to key community spaces.

Led by the Rye Community Group Alliance, the project involved local preschool children and community groups in the design, fostering creativity and pride. The initiative was delivered in collaboration with the Shire’s Arts and Culture team.

The shelter was also refurbished as part of a separate project supported by the Shire and local businesses.

Powerful symbol of hope

A tree at David MacFarlan Reserve in Sorrento has been transformed into a powerful symbol of hope as part of the Blue Tree Project. The initiative began in Western Australia in 2019 and has since grown into a global movement encouraging open conversations about mental health. The local Blue Tree near Sorrento Football and Netball Club involves a tree initially marked for removal as part of works at the reserve.

The Sorrento Rotary Club generously funded the installation with contributions from its members. Shire arborists prepared the tree by trimming and de-barking it with Wattyl Paint supplying the paint at no cost. bluetreeproject.com.au

Tanti

It has been a full and rewarding period with many opportunities to support, celebrate and advocate for our community.

Citizenship ceremonies are a highlight and it was a privilege to welcome 96 new Australians at a ceremony in Mornington. These occasions are a wonderful reminder of how fortunate we are to live on the Mornington Peninsula and of the contribution people from across the world make to our community.

The new Council Budget also includes important investment across Tanti Ward. Highlights include resurfacing the Elsie Dorrington netball courts, further works on the Beleura Cliff Path, drainage works at Shire Hall Beach, road-safety improvements at Wilsons Rd, Tanti Ave and Bentons Rd, and footpath renewal at the Empire St Mall.

Tourism also remains a focus. I spoke at the Destination Mornington Peninsula Industry Conference and attended the launch of Yannabil First Peoples Tourism Council.

I attended Parliament House to advocate on homelessness, joined the annual Volunteers’ Lunch to recognise the contribution of volunteers and attended the Victorian Vegetable Innovation Day, showcasing innovation across our agricultural sector.

Schnapper Point works underway

The Schnapper Point boat ramp upgrade is progressing on time with both jetties constructed and work beginning to remove the old boat ramp.

The project is being assisted by construction of a coffer dam, allowing more work to be completed during bad weather. The rebuild remains on track for completion in September, ahead of the snapper season. The project is funded through the State Government’s Better Boating Fund.

Alexandra Park carpark upgrade

The Alexandra Park Reserve carpark has been upgraded with asphalt and line marking, delivering a safer, cleaner and more functional facility for the community.

The project is a great example of a Local Area Community Capital Infrastructure Grant generating significant outcomes for the community and the Shire. It is always a fantastic result when community and Council work collaboratively to deliver and fund local projects.

Tootgarook

I’m a big fan of the famous saying ‘We rise by lifting others’.

For me, Robert Ingersoll’s quote speaks volumes about the value of community service, as well as helping and assisting others wherever possible.

Our tireless and dedicated volunteers put in a staggering 15,000 hours of service across the Shire last year! It was wonderful to celebrate and honour our volunteers at a recognition event held as part of National Volunteers Week.

Two of our volunteer programs are marking big milestones this year - the Home Library Service has been supporting residents who are unable to visit libraries in person for the last 25 years and the Peninsula Advisory Committee for Elders (PACE) is celebrating 20 years of service.

To all our volunteers, keep up the great work – you all make the Peninsula such a great place to live. See how you can help and make a difference at volmornpen.com.au

I’ve also loved connecting with residents at Capel Sound Community Group, Italian Republic Flag Raising Day and many more.

Skaters wheelie loving new ramp

Skaters can perform their best tricks thanks to a new concrete quarter pipe ramp at Rosebud Skate Park.

Supported by a $32,000 Shire Local Area Community Capital Grant, the upgrade enhances the existing skate facility by providing a new feature for riders of all skill levels, supporting progression, skill development and increased usage.

The new ramp strengthens the skate park as a key recreation space for local young people and the broader community, encouraging active and healthy outdoor activity. It also complements the existing layout and improves the overall flow and usability of the park for skaters, scooter riders and BMX users.

Major boost for sporting clubs

A pavilion home to several proud sporting clubs has undergone a significant upgrade. Home to Rosebud Football Netball Club and Rosebud Cricket Club, works at the Olympic Park pavilion involve an extension to the social room – almost doubling the size.

Works also include large viewing windows to ensure people can enjoy watching games without having to battle the elements. The upgrade was made possible thanks to a Shire grant ($50,000), Cricket Victoria ($25,000) and contributions from the clubs ($100,000).

The increased capacity will allow clubs sharing the facility to host social events, presentations, community gatherings and match-day functions without limitations that were previously challenging.

Warringine

First, I’d like to acknowledge the pressure many households and small businesses are currently under due to ongoing cost-of-living pressures.

I’m very mindful of these challenges when making decisions at Council and understand the importance of making responsible choices that deliver value.

You may have noticed increased tree planting across our wards over recent months. These plantings form part of a broader program to replace trees lost through removals and natural decline, with approximately 2,000 trees being planted across the Peninsula. Hastings and Bittern have both received some welcome plantings, which will improve our local environment and provide benefits for future generations.

The Hastings Hall renovation has now been completed and the facility is available for community bookings – see the article on this page for more information.

The Shire office at Hastings continues to play an important role in serving the local community and Council is considering future investment and improvement opportunities as part of the Future Workplace planning processes. Please don’t hesitate to contact me about Council related concerns for Warringine.

Road safety

A recent Black Spot funding application for High St, Hastings from Frankston-Flinders Rd to Salmon St was successful.

We secured $716,300 to Install raised safety platforms, raised priority crossings, at-grade zebra crossings and other supporting treatments to improve pedestrian and vulnerable road user safety along High St. We’ll start work on design next so watch this space.

Stunning new mural at Crib Point

A stunning new mural by Peninsula artist Daniel van de Wiel is making a splash at Crib Point Pool.

Created in celebration of the pool’s 50th year, the artwork reflects the local landscape, including native birdlife and the relaxed coastal rhythm that has shaped generations of summers since 1975. The final design was shaped through

community input, with locals invited to vote on their preferred concept.

Known for expressive large-scale works, van de Wiel has transformed the pool surrounds into a welcoming visual landmark that celebrates movement, colour and connection.

"I wanted the mural to feel vibrant and playful," he said.

Hastings Hall refurbishment

Hastings Hall has a new lease of life thanks to a major refurbishment. The hall was initially closed due to significant structural issues with the floor. The project included new front windows, new roof over toilets and front foyer, sub floor underpinning and resin injection, drainage/gutters and hot water upgrade.

Other works included internal new plaster to front offices, painting, timber floor sand and polishing, new carpet. Gas heaters were removed and replaced with split systems. The project cost about $350,000.