Welcome to your summer edition of Peninsula Wide – it’s packed with great reads and information about what’s happening. From articles about Southern Brown Bandicoots returning to The Briars, new EV charging stations and our commitment to an inclusive Peninsula where all feel valued and included, there’s news for everyone. Following the Council elections in October, we warmly received our new Councillors and look forward to working collaboratively with them to deliver the best for ratepayers and residents.
Despite the major financial challenges impacting all Victorian councils, I’m
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proud that in a difficult economic climate our financial position continues to be strong. This is down to cautious financial management and our dedication to cutting costs and finding efficiencies.
This commitment to doing more with less is part of a determined project to become a truly community-centred organisation. It envisages a future where all services are delivered with greater local engagement and we draw on the enormous capacity that exists in our community.
It has been a privilege to have been a part of this wonderful community and to have led the Shire over the past six years. As I start a new chapter at Sunshine Coast Council in Queensland, I wish to thank Councillors, staff and most importantly our community, for everything that we have achieved together.
John Baker, Chief Executive Officer Mornington Peninsula Shire
Our customer service centres are open, please check the website for opening hours. mornpen.vic.gov.au/contactus
The Shire has moved to a single Councillor ward structure following the 2024 Council elections.
For more information, see Page 8
Mornington Peninsula Shire acknowledges and pays respect to the Bunurong people, the Traditional Custodians of these lands and waters.
Editor: Christian Tatman
Next edition we will welcome our new Mayor, who was elected just after we went to print.
Graphic designer: Kelly-Maree Nagle
Photographer: Ryan Eckersley
Cover: Number 16 Beach, Rye
Peninsula Wide is printed using vegetable-based inks on 100% recycled paper certified Carbon Neutral and FSC (CoC) recycled certified. It is manufactured from 100% recycled fibres under the ISO 14001 EMS certification. No chlorine bleaching occurs in the recycling process.
The information in this publication is of a general nature and is not intended to provide a complete discussion on each subject and/or issues canvassed. Mornington Peninsula Shire does not accept liability for any statement, opinion, errors or omissions contained herein.
Tootgarook
Nepean
Briars Brokil Benbenjie
Tanti
Moorooduc
Warringine
Kackeraboite
Beek Beek
Coolart
Sanctuary for Southern Brown Bandicoots
The endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot has been reintroduced to The Briars!
This is the second threatened species returned as part of The Briars Ark Program, which works to renew locally endangered and extinct species to The Briars.
The first reintroduction under the Ark Program featured the critically endangered Mount Martha Bundy, a species of eucalypt found in small pockets on the Peninsula.
Our Briars team has worked hard over many years to prepare the Wildlife Sanctuary for the return of bandicoots, including ensuring no rabbits nor foxes inhabit the area.
Southern Brown Bandicoots play a critical role as ecosystem engineers with their digging and foraging improving soil health and spreading fungal spores, which are critical to the health of native trees.
The Briars team has worked with both
Melbourne and Deakin Universities on this important project. Deakin University researchers are studying the impact that the bandicoots have on soil health, and fungal and plant communities.
The relocation project, coordinated by PhD student John Black, is jointly supported by The University of Melbourne and the independent research organisation, Cesar Australia.
The funding for this work has been provided by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, through the Melbourne Strategic Assessment program.
So far, eight bandicoots have been relocated from Gippsland and Koo Wee Rup, with these two populations selected to maximise the genetic diversity and adaptability of the bandicoots and their future offspring.
The University of Melbourne and Cesar will continue to investigate the genetic diversity of The Briars population as it changes across subsequent generations. In the future, animals from The Briars may even move to other sites, to improve genetic diversity across the state.
“Having bandicoots back on the Peninsula is fantastic
“This will be the third predator-free sanctuary with Southern Browns in Melbourne and surrounding areas, ensuring the species will persist in the face of exotic predators and climate change.
“By moving animals from both Koo Wee Rup and far East Gippsland, we are going to get a population that is well-adapted to the local area, but also with a lot of genetic diversity to help them keep adapting as climate and environment inevitably change around them.”
– PhD student John Black
Your voice matters!
Three years ago, we asked you to imagine the future.
Thousands of Mornington Peninsula residents came together in 2021 to shape the future of our home, creating a Community Vision for 2040.
This vision paints a picture of the Peninsula you want and over the past three years, it has guided how we plan and grow. Since then, we’ve checked in with you to make sure this vision still reflects your hopes. A big thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts in 2024 – it was inspiring to hear the
Planning for the future of our community facilities
Did you know we own and maintain around 250 community facilities? With many of these built back in the 1960s and ’70s, we need to make sure they are still meeting the changing needs of our community.
Our Community Facilities Infrastructure Strategy 2023–24 does that by setting a clear direction with principles to guide the planning, design and operation of community facilities. A key outcome is the development of infrastructure action plans for each township. This may include:
• exploring different management models
• investigating new approaches to deliver Shire services
• consolidating existing facilities
• repurposing or selling outdated buildings (where appropriate).
Focusing on modern, adaptable facilities like the Flinders Community Hub, the Strategy supports user groups while ensuring long-term financial sustainability. By prioritising multipurpose spaces, we better serve the community.
many voices, ideas and values from across our community.
In early 2025, we’ll be reaching out again to take a closer look at some of the key areas you’ve highlighted. Your feedback will be essential in shaping the Council’s strategic plans for 2025–2029, ensuring that our shared Vision remains at the heart of everything we do. Your voice matters! Join us in shaping the Peninsula’s future by getting involved at mornpen.vic.gov.au/councilstrategy
Report a problem
Have you seen a maintenance issue or concern on our Peninsula we should know about?
Use our handy ‘Report it’ page on our website for issues such as potholes, tree concerns, drainage, public bins and more.
You’ll receive a reference number for your request and you can track the progress of your report online. mornpen.vic.gov.au/reportit
Dispose of green waste for free during the ‘No Charge’ Green Waste event 28-30 March 2025. For Shire residents or ratepayers with green waste to be delivered via residential vehicles and trailers. mornpen.vic.gov.au/greenwaste
Seniors Festival 2024
This year’s Seniors Festival hosted an array of active, social and fun low-cost opportunities for older people and honoured their enormous contribution.
More than 70 activities and events, including the Get Active Expo, were part of a month-long celebration supported by the Shire and the Victorian Government.
This year’s theme ‘Explore. Engage. Evolve’, encouraged curiosity and courage to try something new.
Your Local Connection Points
Introducing Your Local Connection Points — providing more convenient access to Shire services and ensuring a positive, supportive experience.
In addition to our offices at Mornington, Rosebud and Hastings, we’ve expanded our face-to-face reach with smaller, localised hubs at Sorrento, Somerville, Dromana and Red Hill.
These Connection Points are situated in smaller townships and co-located
Connect our Trails!
Imagine world-class trails connecting the stunning landscapes of the Mornington Peninsula – from coastal paths to forest walks.
Exciting things are happening with the Peninsula Trails project! We’re on a mission to complete 11 missing sections that will transform our trails, making it easier than ever to explore the beauty of the Peninsula. We’ve developed some maps with route options to complete the sections in a draft Master Plan and want your input. Feedback opportunities open soon. mornpen.vic.gov.au/peninsulatrails
within existing community spaces to improve access for local residents. They provide friendly face-to-face assistance on a wide range of Shire services, from general enquiries and service advice to form submissions and EFTPOS payments.
Somerville Library: Monday to Friday 10am-1pm and 2-5pm.
Dromana – Mornington Peninsula Visitor Information Centre: Wednesday 10am-4pm
Red Hill: Thursday 9am-5pm
Sorrento Community Centre: Friday 9am-5pm
Excludes public holidays.
Now, it's more convenient than ever to get the support you need in your community.
For more information, visit: mornpen.vic.gov.au/ YourLocalConnectionPoints
Reconciliation Action Plan
In a significant milestone, Council has adopted the Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2024–2026 (RAP).
The RAP outlines our commitment to building respectful relationships and creating meaningful opportunities with the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, businesses and organisations.
Developed in consultation with the community and working closely with local Indigenous groups, this Plan is a significant step forward in our Reconciliation journey.
mornpen.vic.gov.au/RAP
Championing a child safe culture
We are championing a child safe culture in our Mornington Peninsula community. We are all responsible for keeping children and young people safe from child abuse and harm. Reporting is the important first step in helping children and families get the help and support they need.
Every child deserves to be and feel happy and safe. Have you seen something that makes you concerned for a child’s wellbeing – whether in their home, community or a Shire service? Talk to us about it. As a child safe organisation, we can report the event to the relevant authorities. Learn how and when to report a concern: mornpen.vic.gov.au/childsafe
Urban Forest Strategy sets ambitious goals
Council’s comprehensive Urban Forest Strategy safeguards and expands our urban forest for future generations.
Adopted by Council, the Strategy was shaped by extensive consultation with the community. We received substantial feedback including more than 600 social media poll responses and 150 survey responses. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 91 per cent of survey respondents supporting the Strategy’s vision.
Our Urban Forest encompasses all trees and vegetation across both private and public lands within the Shire’s urban areas.
Peninsula Tales
Our new series Peninsula Tales is jam packed with news about fantastic projects, events and initiatives on the Peninsula. We’ve featured the Harvest Exchange where you can swap excess homegrown fruit and vegetables with residents to reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable Peninsula!
From small acts of kindness to big innovations, we’re highlighting the achievements that make our home such a heartwarming place to live, work and visit. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a new arrival, there’s always something new to discover and savour.
mornpen.vic.gov.au/peninsulatales
With an impressive average tree canopy cover of 37 per cent, one of the highest in Victoria, our urban forest is crucial for cooling, shading, and supporting local wildlife.
Despite notable growth in canopy cover from 2011 to 2020, some areas have experienced significant loss. The new Strategy is set to achieve an ambitious target: ensuring that 45 per cent of streets and parks are shaded by tree canopy by 2034.
It aims to mitigate urban heat, improve quality of life, and bolster the region’s unique natural environment and biodiversity. For more information, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/urbanforest
Improving our customer experience
Council’s new Customer Strategy marks a significant step forward in our commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of our community.
The purpose of the Customer Strategy is to:
• connect better with our customers
• focus more on our community’s wants and needs
• improve service delivery
• be more open and accountable
• increase community engagement
• build public trust.
The development of the Customer Strategy was driven by extensive consultation involving more than 4,032 customers, alongside a thorough review of our existing processes and systems.
Our Customer Charter
is our commitment to you and what you can expect when interacting with Mornington Peninsula Shire.
We make it easy: We aim to make the complex simple.
We serve consistently: We listen and are committed to understanding your needs.
We respond proactively: We respect your time and seek to get things right the first time.
Visitor paid parking
A decision on the future of permanent Visitor Paid Parking has been deferred. The new Council will revisit the future of Visitor Paid Parking in the new year, with careful consideration of all perspectives.
A comprehensive policy and framework to guide foreshore parking management will be developed, supported by community and business engagement to ensure a balanced approach. Parking at Schnapper Point (Mornington), Sunnyside Beach (Mount Eliza) and Flinders pier is currently free for all users, including visitors, and ePermits are not required for residents. All car park users must adhere to time restrictions. mornpen.vic.gov.au/visitorpaidparking
Great survey results
The results are in and you’re connected! Thanks to everyone who took the time to participate in our Peninsula Wide 2024 survey and provide valuable feedback. We’re proud to report that there were 374 respondents with key results:
• 78 per cent felt informed and connected after reading Peninsula Wide
• 73 per cent strongly agreed or agreed the stories in Peninsula Wide represent the community
• 91 per cent strongly agreed or agreed the information in Peninsula Wide is easy to understand
• 76 per cent trust the information in Peninsula Wide. Rest assured, we’re continuing to strive for excellence and will deliver all the news you want and need to know.
We All Belong
Our new We All Belong: A Strategy for an Inclusive Mornington Peninsula Community is all about making our Peninsula a place where everyone feels welcome, valued and included.
We All Belong was created with input from our community and key stakeholders to guide our efforts in promoting inclusion, diversity and wellbeing over the next five years. We thank everyone who shared their thoughts and ideas during the consultation process. Your feedback played a crucial role in shaping this Strategy, ensuring it reflects the unique needs of people across the Peninsula.
We recognise that people’s identities are complex and this Strategy aims to address the overlapping challenges and discrimination that different groups may face. With this Strategy, we can ensure our services and programs resonate with and support everyone.
mornpen.vic.gov.au/weallbelong
Tackling the homelessness crisis
During National Homelessness Week in August, we joined forces with local Community Support Centres in Rosebud, Hastings and Mornington, the youth homelessness organisation Fusion and The Salvation Army to deliver a series of events.
The Shire, alongside local community organisations, is deeply concerned about the escalating housing and homelessness crisis in the region. Since Council declared a housing crisis in 2021, homelessness across the Peninsula has increased by 37 per cent, with a 33 per cent rise in homelessness support seekers over the past year.
We have written to state and federal Ministers, highlighting our urgent need for crisis accommodation and homelessness services.
We continue to advocate for investment in social housing stock and crisis accommodation locally, reinvestment of the state government’s 7.5 per cent short stay rental accommodation levy back into the Peninsula, and the release of surplus land around the Port of Hastings to increase affordable housing options.
Up to 689 people are homeless on any given night
30% of people seeking support have dependents
3,000+ applications for social housing
PENINSULA
Our Multicultural Fest celebrated cultural diversity on the Peninsula.
Shire moves to 11 single Councillor wards
We’re looking forward to welcoming our new Councillors to Mornington Peninsula Shire’s revamped ward structure.
The Shire has moved to a single Councillor ward structure following the 2024 Council elections.
This follows an electoral structure review in 2023 by an Electoral Representation Advisory Panel appointed by the Minister for Local Government, due to the new requirements under the
Local Government Act 2020. The Mornington Peninsula Shire now has 11 single Councillor wards, changing from the previous structure of six wards with a total of 11 Councillors.
Please read articles about what’s happening in your ward on the following pages. We were unable to include our new Councillors in this edition due to print deadlines, however, we look forward to featuring them in the next edition.
The Gazetted names for the 11 wards are:
• Beek Beek Ward
• Benbenjie Ward
• Briars Ward
• Brokil Ward
• Coolart Ward
• Kackeraboite Ward
• Moorooduc Ward
• Nepean Ward
• Tanti Ward
• Tootgarook Ward
• Warringine Ward
Watt a way to charge up!
Driving an electric vehicle (EV) on the Peninsula is now that much easier!
Two new public EV fast chargers have been installed and are ready for use in Dromana.
You can find these new charging stations at Pier Street carpark, Dromana Shopping Centre.
The latest installation is fully funded through ARENA Future Fuels Program and private industry, plus it’s powered by 100 per cent green power.
Marna Reserve Pavilion upgrade
Renovation works on the Marna Reserve Pavilion at Dromana are in full swing!
The $750,000 project includes:
• disability access to the Pavilion through new ramps and decking installed at the front of the pavilion.
• upgrades to existing toilet facilities, including one externally-accessibly toilet for people with disability.
• additional storage facilities.
The pavilion is currently used by Dromana Junior Netball Club, Dromana Community Gardens Club and the Italian Seniors Social Club Dromana. Works are expected to be finished by late 2024. We’re proud to be able to give our netball players and all users a fantastic new facility to enjoy.
These new charging stations will charge a standard EV from zero to 80 per cent, in under an hour!
Evie Networks own and operate the charging stations and users will need to download the Evie Charging App to use the chargers. For more information, visit evie.com.au
If you’re interested in EVs, visit: electricvehiclecouncil.com.au
For a map of all public charging stations nearby: plugshare.com
Safety Beach revitalisation
Our Safety Beach Master Plan is delivering results.
With a focus on revitalising the Safety Beach foreshore area, the project includes the Tassells Cove carpark area, which has been completed with works including landscaping, an upgraded sealed carpark and a ramp for beach access.
There’s also a newly installed water fountain and dog bowl to help our furry friends stay hydrated! Local community groups will do some more planting works around the new sealed car spaces in autumn – so watch this space!
Dromana Preschool expansion
Dromana Preschool will expand thanks to the Shire successfully obtaining a Victorian Government Building Blocks Capacity Grant.
This community-run, sessional kindergarten is much loved by local families.
The modular expansion will ensure that more children have access to a high-quality kindergarten program before they start school.
The build is on track to be completed by Term 1, 2025.
Once the state government has completed the works, the building will be handed back to the Shire and we will maintain it to a high standard for our junior residents to thrive for years to come!
This expansion means that more children in Dromana and surrounding areas will be able to start their early learning journey at their local kindergarten.
Beek Beek
A better connection in Somerville
Residents of Somerville are better connected thanks to Your Local Connection Point at Somerville Library.
A team of dedicated customer support officers are now on site five days a week providing friendly face-to-face assistance on a wide range of Shire services, from general enquiries and service advice to form submissions and EFTPOS payments.
You’ll find the help desk conveniently located inside the library, allowing you to access both library and Shire services in one comfortable, communal space.
Now, you can pay your rates during Storytime, use the free computers and Wi-Fi to submit online forms and applications, or dive into the shelves to discover your next holiday read.
For more information, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/ YourLocalConnectionPoints
Pitch perfect
We’ve upgraded the cricket practice nets at Somerville Recreation Reserve. The revamp includes a concrete slab, new fencing and synthetic grass. The works were completed thanks to grants from Sport and Recreation Victoria, Cricket Victoria and funds raised through the Somerville Cricket Club.
Celebration of community spirit
The Somerville Family Day had it all – skate competitions, car show, market stalls, food vans, rides and games! Sponsored via the Shire’s Community Investment Funding program, the free event is held annually at Fruit Growers Reserve and next year’s Family Day will celebrate the event’s 10th anniversary.
The day is organised by volunteers and connects local sporting groups, clubs, charities, historic societies and various associations. It enables community groups to showcase their initiatives. First responders and emergency services including Police, SES and CFA all participated in this year’s Family Day.
New signs take flight!
The Peninsula’s bushland reserves are home to an impressive range of feathered friends - both permanent residents and seasonal visitors.
At Olivers Creek Bushland Reserve at Tyabb, ‘What bird is that?’ interpretive signage has been developed with volunteers from Birdlife Mornington Peninsula to help visitors learn about the bird diversity on our doorstep.
As you walk, look and listen you may encounter Grey Fantails, Yellow Robins, and even a Sacred Kingfisher! There’s no shortage of birdlife to view. So, what are you waiting for? Why not head out to your local reserve, admire the birds, and learn more thanks to the signs.
A stunning Sacred Kingfisher. Image: Con Duyvestyn
Image:
McCrae Coastal Group’s volunteers in action.
Protecting our prized environment
McCrae Coastal Group’s hardworking volunteers have been protecting and enhancing our precious environment for 27 years.
Residents formed the group to preserve the local indigenous vegetation near the historic McCrae Homestead, which was built in 1844 by Andrew and Georgiana McCrae.
Georgiana recorded many of the plants she found around the homestead and the coastal group's emblem, Coast Banksia, is indigenous to the McCrae area and can be found all along the foreshore.
Group secretary Margaret Wilson said members work under the guidance of
Mornington Peninsula Shire’s Natural Systems Team to weed, plant and protect the unique flora and fauna on the McCrae foreshore from just east of the lighthouse to Anthonys Nose.
“One of our key aims is to increase public awareness of the fragility of this narrow section of foreshore and to inspire the community to participate in its protection,” she said.
“Maintaining healthy vegetation along the foreshore alleviates climate change, storm surges, beach stability, sand blowouts and erosion control.”
The group meets on the McCrae foreshore at the rotunda opposite Coburn Avenue on the first and second Sunday of the month from 10am to noon. Equipment is provided and all welcome.
mccraecoastalgroup.org.au
Benbenjie
Vital support
McCrae Coastal Group received a Shire Placemaking Grant to replace interpretive signage at the McCrae rotunda. The signs display more than 40 local indigenous plants and environmental weeds that are commonly found along the McCrae foreshore area.
“These easy to read panels are an important source of information for the community about local indigenous plants or weeds found along the Bay Trail at McCrae, or indeed as a guide for the restoration of their own gardens.”
– Margaret Wilson
Rosebud and McCrae Life Saving Club
Water safety is critical on the Peninsula and that’s why we are proudly funding Rosebud and McCrae Life Saving Club with a $50,000 grant to upgrade their community facility.
The Local Area Community Capital Infrastructure grant will enable essential works at the club including non-slip flooring and improvements in the change rooms and shower facilities.
Rosebud and McCrae Life Saving Club is family-friendly and promotes healthy lifestyles. The club collaborates with emergency services, schools and the Shire to ensure their committed volunteers are highly trained contributors to community-led safety. We’re delighted to invest in these upgrades and ensure the clubhouse remains functional and safe for our community.
Parkinson’s support group
The Peninsula Parkinson’s Peer Support Group is going from strength to strength thanks to support from the Shire. A start-up grant and use of rooms at Mount Martha Community House have enabled the group to flourish from seven to 150 members.
The group is launching the “Shaken not Stirred - the Voice of Parkinson’s on the Peninsula”
On the right path!
The retaining wall at Hawker Beach, Mount Martha, has been rebuilt to ensure the path remains safe and to reduce the risk of future landslips.
Other works included upgrading the lookout. Both works were undertaken due to erosion, old age and unstable geology. We timed the works for the colder months, so the path was ready for use again for summer. No native vegetation was removed throughout the project.
This project was funded by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, under the Coastal Public Access and Risk Grant Program, and Council.
podcast, available via Apple and Spotify. Podcast host Pat LawsonBlack said the group has teamed up with community radio RPP FM to record the podcast.
“It aims to reach out to those locals who can’t make our meetings and will add to the wealth of information on Parkinson’s Disease.”
The group meets at Mount Martha Community House on the first Tuesday of each month at 1pm.
Details: 0412 561 768 (Ken)
New tennis courts are ace Mount Martha Tennis Club members have a bounce in their step thanks to a $1.6 million redevelopment that has lifted the four courts to Tennis Australia Club Competition standards. The project was funded by the Shire ($1.22 million), the state government ($300,000) and Mount Martha Tennis Club ($80,000).
The club now has a fit for purpose tennis facility thanks to the renewal of all four tennis courts to competitionstandard size, new lighting and new fencing, a book-a-court system, storage facilities, concrete pathways, bench seats and water bubblers.
Safety works at intersection
Works have been completed to improve safety at the intersection of Craigie Road and Osbourne Drive, Mount Martha.
The $1.3 million project was granted funding in the 2020–-21 Federal Blackspot/Black Length Program and improves safety conditions at the intersection by reducing approach speeds and reducing the number of potential collision points at the intersection. Works include the installation of a compact roundabout, raised platforms on each approach and improved pedestrian paving connections.
Peninsula Parkinson’s Peer Support Group launches its podcast with Ken and Angela Wall, RPP FM’s Chris Mofardin and Phillip and Jean Hancorne.
Protecting our flora and fauna
An initiative to establish and enhance biolinks at Devilbend – connecting valuable habitats to improve wildlife movement – has received vital support from the Shire.
Healthy native landscapes must remain connected to prevent fragmentation, which traps animals in small areas, increasing vulnerability to predators and declining populations.
Mornington Peninsula Landcare Network received a $2,500 Biolinks Support Grant to contribute to the Devilbend-Hastings Plan, which is part of the Linking the Mornington Peninsula Project.
The plan will rehabilitate about 55 hectares using bushland restoration techniques, focusing on replanting native vegetation and controlling invasive species.
This grant highlights our commitment to the environment and ensures the survival of the Peninsula’s unique flora and fauna, promoting a sustainable ecological future.
Major revamp for Red Hill Pavilion
The Red Hill Recreation Reserve Pavilion has a new lease of life thanks to a $3.4 million investment.
The Shire contributed $1.4 million with the state government funding the remaining $2 million.
The well-used reserve is home to the Red Hill Football Netball Club, Red Hill Cricket Club and Red Hill Junior Football Club.
The existing pavilion has been extended to provide additional
change rooms and amenities for the players and umpires, including new elements to promote female participation in AFL and cricket.
Construction works on the pavilion are now finished and the facility is open again for the sports clubs to use.
It's been a pleasure to be part of this project and we can't wait to see the amazing future ahead for the teams that call this pavilion home!
New playground at Hillview
Great news! Construction on Hillview Community Reserve’s long-awaited playground has begun! The new playground will offer fun for everyone, with accessible paths for wheelchairs, scooters and prams.
Coming soon: a 41-space car park and improved footpath network! Hillview Reserve is already home to a pond, leash-free area, pump track and barbecue shelter, making it a hotspot for locals and visitors alike. Some areas will be closed during construction, but we’ll do our best to minimise disruption.
We hope to be finished work by the end of 2025.
To follow the progress, visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/hillviewreserve
Kackeraboite
Major boost for sporting clubs at Emil Madsen
Mount Eliza sporting clubs will receive a boost thanks to significant investment in infrastructure at Emil Madsen Reserve.
A new sports pavilion has been designed to cater for the Mount Eliza Soccer Club, Junior Football Club, Cricket Club and Netball Club.
The construction of a new East Pavilion will be a single storey building at the east side of the reserve near the netball courts.
It will include six change rooms, umpire rooms, male and female toilets, storage rooms, kitchen and servery and a centralised social room space. Designs are currently underway and it is
Mount Eliza Park accessibility initiative
Our beautiful parks are for all and that’s why we’re working with Rotarians to enhance accessibility at Mount Eliza Park.
Thanks to funding from the Shire, the Rotary Club of Mount Eliza has installed more seating and benches including an all-access disability friendly bench.
These improvements ensure people of all abilities can enjoy the park comfortably. The initiative also fosters greater community engagement and encourages families to gather and enjoy our great outdoor spaces.
anticipated that construction will start in July 2025.
In more great news, we are currently developing the concept design for the new West Pavilion that will eventually be home for the Mount Eliza Football Netball Club, Junior Football Club and Cricket Club.
The development of a new West Pavilion will provide a new home base for these clubs and will replace the existing facilities that have poor accessibility, no unisex change facilities and limited gathering spaces. Locating the building centrally between the main playing and training facilities for these clubs will also give greater access to all users.
Together, we’re creating a park that truly reflects the spirit of our vibrant community!
A Donkey Orchid at the Moorooduc Quarry Bushland Reserve.
Biodiversity bonanza!
There’s no shortage of natural wonders on the Peninsula including the stunning Moorooduc Quarry Bushland Reserve.
Our citizen scientists headed to the reserve for a guided walk as part of free fun during Biodiversity Month in September. Walks were also held at other reserves in Rosebud, Rye and Hastings.
Participants also got the chance to do some ‘bio blitzing’ – photographing their discoveries including plants, beetles and fungi and uploading them to the citizen science app iNaturalist.
This was a great chance for participants to learn about local biodiversity and contribute to conservation and research efforts. During the month long BioBlitz, local citizen scientists recorded an incredible 4,300 observations of 1,170 species across the Peninsula!
Mornington’s big Christmas present!
The Civic Reserve Sports Pavilion project at Mornington is on track to be ready by Christmas!
The $9.5 million pavilion will be home to the Mount Martha Soccer Club and the Mornington Peninsula Athletic Club, sitting conveniently between the soccer pitches and athletics track. Energy efficiency has been prioritised in the design of the pavilion.
A large 50kW solar PV system, passive design elements and efficient hot water, heating and cooling equipment will help to lower energy bills for the clubs, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions by almost 90 per cent over the lifetime of the building.
In addition, water sensitive urban design elements will help manage stormwater to reduce pollutants and ease flood risks downstream.
Talking rubbish
Unsure about your bin day?
Then head to the Shire’s online portal and enter your address in the bin day look up tool below.
mornpen.vic.gov.au/ findyourbinday
You’ll then find out your green waste, household rubbish and recycling bin days and be able to download a handy bin calendar where you can write your bin collection date in the space provided. If your bin was missed, contact Customer Service on 1300 850 600
Mission paws-ible for our furry friends!
Free dog and cat desexing for local Seniors Card holders is a mission paws-ible!
The popular program is back for 2024–25 with an added bonus: free microchipping. This continues our commitment to supporting our senior community and their muchloved furry companions.
Desexing your pet can boost their life expectancy, reduce the risk of certain cancers and health issues, and help control the pet population. It can also
reduce behavioural problems like aggression and wandering.
Adding microchipping means extra peace of mind – if your pet ever gets lost, a quick scan ensures they’re back home with you in no time.
If you’re a Seniors Card holder with a pet, just give our friendly Animal Shelter team a call and we’ll walk you through the next steps.
5950 1838
This program is funded and spots are limited, so don’t miss out! You can also follow our Community Animal Shelter on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest updates.
Brighter future for our animal companions
We’re making a major investment in the wellbeing of our community’s animals, with a $6 million upgrade to the Community Animal Shelter and Pound at Watt Road, Mornington. Works are underway and we hope to be finished by September 2025. This refurbishment will ensure the shelter meets the highest standards of animal care, providing a comfortable
and stress-free environment for all creatures, great and small.
The upgraded facility will prioritise the reunification and rehoming of animals, offering them the care and support they need to thrive in loving forever homes. Don’t worry, the shelter is still open as usual during the renovation and we continue to provide a caring home for the animals there.
Skate park update
Thanks to everyone who provided feedback for the Rye Skate Park concept design – your thoughts and ideas will be considered in the final design.
We’re proud to support our residents of all ages to live an active lifestyle and by including beginner-friendly skating elements, we’re making sure budding skaters are safe and welcome at the park.
Stage 1 upgrades include skate elements suitable for riders of all levels. Plans include a new combination bowl, featuring three pockets with a shallower 5.5-foot depth, and a deeper 10.5-foot pocket. The park also includes a bowled mini-ramp area, and street elements such as a kerb slider, flat rail and a manual pad.
Stage 2 upgrades involve access improvements, including a shared path from the skate park to the upgraded playground, accessible car parks and more.
We’ll be getting started on construction next year and will keep you updated as the project progresses. mornpen.vic.gov.au/ryeskate
Totally wicket!
Sorrento’s cricketers are set to hit the opposition for six! We’ve upgraded the cricket nets at the David MacFarlan Reserve thanks to a $450,000 project funded by the Shire and state government through Sport and Recreation Victoria.
Hall hire
Need a venue for your activity, function or event? Our community facilities, like halls and pavilions, are open to everyone for all sorts of occasions. Community facilities are located across the Peninsula including Watsons Pavilion (Portsea), Blairgowrie Community Hall, Rye Civic Hall and many more. Facilities are available for hire seven days a week. For more information and to use our easy booking system, visit: mornpen.vic.gov.au/venuesforhire
Blairgowrie parking bay transformed
Exciting, interactive pop-up art installations sprung to life in parking bays across the Peninsula as part of the international Park(ing) Day event.
Held on 20 September, Park(ing)Day is a global, public, participatory project where people across the world temporarily repurpose kerbside parking spaces and convert them into public parks and social spaces to advocate for safer, greener and more equitable streets for people.
We commissioned four local artists, including Mia Rappel, for the event. Mia’s project Blue, at Point Nepean Road, Blairgowrie, offered a welcoming vision where visitors stepped into a space immersed in calming blue tones.
Soft textures created a tapestry of blue tones and a patchwork of disparate elements coming together to form a new whole – providing a space to sit and enjoy the lovely view of the bay, participate in the simple ancient act of beading, and engage in small gestures that contribute to the whole.
Artist Mia Rappel at the car park pop up installation.
New Alexandra Park Pavilion shines
The new Alexandra Park Pavilion marks a significant milestone for the Mornington community.
The redevelopment has transformed the park into a premier sporting and community hub, thanks to funding from the Shire ($4.5m), the Victorian Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund ($2.9m), the federal government's Community Health and Hospitals Program via The Bays Hospital ($2.6m), Alexandra Park Project ($400,000) and AFL Victoria ($100,000).
Community house fun
Mornington Community House offers a wide range of social, recreational and creative activities that support our community to connect, learn and contribute.
Check out the free open day! Meet staff and volunteers, tour the community house, learn about programs, watch demonstrations and pop-up performances and enjoy a free barbecue.
The project has delivered a new two-storey multi-use community health and sporting hub.
These facilities will benefit a wide range of users, including the Mornington Cricket Club, Mornington Junior Football Club, Peninsula Raiders Superules and the Mornington Football Netball Club –with modern clubrooms and facilities suited to the needs of all players, officials and spectators.
This new building will also give our community access to medical specialist consulting services, as well as community-focused health and wellbeing programs.
Neighbouring services the Corner Youth Hub, Mornington Men’s Shed and RPP FM are also opening their doors.There will be something for everyone! For more info: 5950 1889 morningtoncommunityhouse.com.au/open-day
Mornington Community House Open Day
Tuesday 21 January 2025, 11am-1pm, 91 Wilsons Road, Mornington
Youth Hub’s vibrant new look
The Corner Youth Hub in Mornington has refreshed its look, with new signage that reflects its youthfriendly, vibrant identity.
Known for providing a safe and welcoming space, The Corner offers young people aged 10 to 25 years old a place to drop in, connect with friends and get information and referrals.
Tootgarook
Capel Sound plan
Looking for a sign? This is it! We’re installing new signage to help direct people to the Capel Sound Shopping Village.
Following consultation with residents and traders for a vision for the Village precinct, new signage is proposed on Point Nepean Road near the shops. It will promote and highlight amenities in the village and improve directional signage at the rear carpark.
Our aim is to have the new signage in place before the summer holiday season. We are also looking at upgrades to the existing rear carpark, subject to available funding.
We’ll continue to liaise with traders and the community on the designs and implementation.
Support for Vinnie’s
New Youth Hub offers a warm welcome
Our new Tounnin Wominjeka Youth Hub in Rosebud is a welcoming ‘one stop shop’ providing fun programs, safe spaces, and support for young people on the Southern Peninsula.
Tounnin Wominjeka means ‘warm welcome’ in the Bunurong language. Young people can drop in and chat with friendly youth workers, enjoy healthy nutritious food, connect with friends – and get referral to supports if they need them.
The multi-use facility, with features co-designed by young people,
Vinnie’s Kitchen is upgrading its facility thanks to support from the Shire. Vinnie’s recently applied through the Shire’s community capital infrastructure project program to improve their kitchen, including a new commercial oven and electrical works valued at about $30,000 and funded by Vinnie’s. We’re providing help with project management, advice and guidance.
The Shire and Vinnie’s are working together to deliver this much needed improvement so that Vinnie’s volunteers can continue to serve up warm, nourishing meals for community members who are doing it tough. Complementing the kitchen works, we will install two new picnic tables to be placed outside Vinnie’s Kitchen at Rosebud’s Village Green.
Vinnie’s President Anne-Maree Townsend said the new works will enable Vinnies to increase the number of meals served, with seating for those who wish to socialise and enjoy a meal near the hall. Meals are served from the Shire’s Youth Band Hall, 980 Point Nepean Road, Rosebud. vinnieskitchen.org.au
includes a large space for programs and activities; a classroom for young people who have left mainstream schooling; seven dedicated consulting suites; a sensory room; multiple office spaces, accessible and all gender toilets; and much more.
Tounnin Wominjeka was funded thanks to support from the Shire ($7.2 million), the Victorian Government via the Growing Suburbs Fund ($4.3 million) and the federal government via the Community Health and Hospitals program ($1.5 million). mpys.com.au/tounninwominjeka
The hardworking volunteers at Vinnie’s Kitchen.
Inclusive Buddy Bench at St Mary’s
Literary Festival opens a new chapter
The Western Port Writes festival has been embraced by the community, with more than 1,000 people attending festival sessions and events in September. Festival Director Sally Holdsworth declared the event a resounding success.
The festival program included a publishing day for emerging writers with a workshop and panels; a Community Storytime Concert with MC Tracee Hutchison and live readings by locals of letters to
Bittern toilet upgrade
A new toilet block will be built in the Bittern Activity Centre this financial year.
We gained funding ‘via the Victorian Government’s ‘Tiny Towns Fund’ to complete this project. The new toilet block will replace the existing block built in 1960 and service the nearby shopping precinct, public hall users, playground users and the Bittern Rotary Community Market.
Works will include renewed public amenities with accessible provisions, seating, bike racks, external lighting and more.
Western Port; a festival dinner; Crime Night with Vikki Petraitis, Christian White and Jon Faine; a children’s program including local authors Wendy Orr, Coral Vass and Rebecca Fraser; and a series of author panels and in-conversation sessions at Coolart Wetlands and Homestead and the Somers Yacht Club.
Western Port Writes was supported by the Shire, the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, Balnarring and Districts Community Bank, the Mornington Peninsula Foundation and community and business organisations.
A new Buddy Bench has been installed at St Mary’s Catholic Primary School in Hastings thanks to support from New Peninsula Men’s Shed and the Shire. Students from Prep to Grade 4 worked with Indigenous education and art consultant Sam Richards on the use of symbols to tell and share stories.
The students learnt about customs and traditions from across Australia and worked with Sam to design their own artwork using these symbols. Men’s Shed members helped to build and instal the bench at St Mary’s Garden with the Shire providing funds for the important project.
Pontoon upgrade complete
Here’s a story that’s fishy for all the right reasons. Following upgrades to the Hastings Boat Ramp Precinct, works to renew the northern pontoon have been completed. This boat ramp is the busiest on Western Port and serves a large local boating population, the Western Port Angling Club, Hastings Yacht Club and emergency services including Water Police, Coast Guard and Volunteer Search and Rescue. Works included a new gangway and pontoon segments, as well as solar lighting. The upgrade was possible thanks to additional funding from Better Boating Victoria.
Authors Imbi Neeme, Irma Gold and Alice Robinson with Festival Committee member, Tessa Moriarty, at Somers Yacht Club.
Picture: Rosa Mar Tato Ortega
Want to know what we are doing? Our community report is a snapshot of the key services, projects, programs and events we delivered for you that quarter. mornpen.vic.gov.au/communityreports
2,426 potholes filled
9,006 tonnes of kerbside waste diverted from landfill
342km of unsealed roads graded
$536,027 in grants, sponsorships and subsidies paid to support the community
894 planning applications were handled
120 planning compliance cases resolved
Consultation is in our DNA. We’re committed to engaging with you at every step of our decision-making processes. Share your thoughts, ideas and concerns on important projects, issues and topics impacting our community via our Shape platform. shape.mornpen.vic.gov.au
