garden, talk to members who will be happy to offer advice and everyone who joins on the day will receive 15 months membership for the price of 12. There are 15 private plots available for rent by members while volunteers who do not have their own plot receive free produce for their efforts, with any surplus donated to Westernport Community Support.
The garden receives great support from local community groups such as Crib Point Op Shop as well as numerous small businesses who contribute in kind to the garden along with large organisations like Bunnings and Bendigo Bank.
Duboudin
BlueScope announces Western Port ‘logistics hub’
Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au
BLUESCOPE has announced to shareholders the company’s plans to rapidly develop a “logistics hub” on their surplus land in Hastings; news that has come as a surprise to Mornington Peninsula Shire.
The announcement came at the company’s half year report where they reported first half profits of $391m, up 118% on last year.
A statement said “BlueScope continues to progress value realisation across its 1,200ha surplus land port-
folio, as demonstrated by the recent 33ha residential land sale at West Dapto, which is contracted for settlement in the second half of FY2026”.
“The 1,200ha surplus land portfolio is in sought after industrial locations, with port, logistics and energy infrastructure, the majority of which is already appropriately zoned and able to be developed.
“As part of the acceleration program, a process has commenced seeking a development partner for a 65‑hectare logistics hub on zoned land at Western Port. The Company expects robust demand given proxim-
ity to Melbourne southeast industrial area and transport infrastructure, with all monetisation models that will maximise value under consideration.”
The company said the “logistics hub” will be established by “1H FY2027”.
The value of Bluescope’s surplus Western Port land was mooted in January as a factor in the undervaluation of a hostile takeover bid by a consortium led by Kerry Stokes’s SGH Limited and US firm Steel Dynamics (BlueScope’s ‘land bank’ value one reason for takeover rejection, The News 13/1/26).
In early January, BlueScope chair, Jane McAloon, said, “Let me be clear – this proposal was an attempt to take BlueScope from its shareholders on the cheap. It drastically undervalued our world class assets, our growth momentum, and our future – and the board will not let that happen”.
Further to the argument based on operating metrics, the announcement stated the takeover proposal failed to adequately reflect the value expected to be delivered from various initiatives, including the monetisation of BlueScope’s 1,200 hectare “no operational” land portfolio.
BlueScope Western Port currently holds a “non-operational” land bank in Western Port of 450 hectares (over 1,100 acres) to which the company has implied pro rata value of over $1b.
BlueScope has listed potential uses for its excess land in the fields of energy (data centres, renewables, battery energy storage systems), logistics (warehousing, rail, hardstand, port), downstream businesses /manufacturing, and R&D/social infrastructure (educational precincts, industrial innovation, parks).
Continued on Page 9
Tony
GORDON McDonald, Prue Eddy, Jo Hunter, Carol Barrie, Fons Keulin,and Brenda Doyle at Crib Point Community Garden. Picture: Yanni
Independents and Greens name candidates for Nepean
Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au
FIVE candidates have nominated for the 2 May Nepean by election with the Independents for Mornington Peninsula and Victorian Greens joining the Liberal Party, One Nation and Libertarians in the contest.
Mornington Peninsula-based broadcaster and journalist Tracee Hutchison will be standing as a community independent candidate, endorsed by the Independents for Mornington Peninsula. Hutchison, who was born, raised, and lives in Rosebud, said she was stepping forward to ensure her community has strong and authentic leadership and representation during this period.
“I’m running as a community independent because both major parties have failed our community for decades, and too many decisions affecting Nepean are made by people who don’t live here and ignore our local concerns,” she said.
“It’s time for a strong, local, independent voice in state parliament that will stand up for Nepean and fight for the outcomes our community deserves.”
Hutchison said the Mornington Peninsula has been neglected for decades, pays more, contributes more, but gets left behind when funding decisions are made.
“The public hospital I was born in needs rebuilding, and I will fight for our fair share of government spending to get it done,” she said.
“Our roads are deteriorating, our schools and health services are
struggling, and we’re not seeing the housing and infrastructure investment other regions receive.
“We’re not asking for special treatment; we’re asking for our fair share, plain and simple.”
Hutchison’s extensive media career includes Triple J, the ABC’s 7.30 Report, 3RRR, and local community radio 3RPP, and she has written and commented extensively on politics, environmental, and social justice issues.
Hutchison has toyed with politics before, having considered a run for Labor in the 2019 federal election before deciding not to contest the preselection.
“While it is true I have given this [standing for Flinders] serious
consideration, and been flooded with local support and encouragement to run, I won’t be contesting the ALP pre-selection for the federal seat of Flinders,” Hutchison told The News at the time (All quiet on Labor front for Flinders, The News 12/2/19).
More recently, Hutchison has been a vocal opponent of cuts to shire arts funding last year, as well as cuts to heritage programs, First Nations funding and the rescinding of the shire’s Climate Emergency Declaration.
Her nomination will see her stand against Anthony Marsh who was Mornington Peninsula Shire mayor when those cuts were being made, and who drove a restructure at the shire in the current council term.
The Victorian Greens have an-
TRACEE Hutchinson
(left) has been named as the Independents for Mornington Peninsula candidate while on Saturday, Victorian Liberal leader Jess Wilson and Liberal candidate Anthony Marsh headed to the Red Hill Show after a morning of campaigning. Pictures: Supplied
nounced Sianan Healy as their beelection.
An announcement from Victorian Greens said “As a Mornington Peninsula local and a mum, Sianan speaks to locals everyday who are raising children in our public schools, working in local health services, schools, arts and hospitality, sometimes struggling to pay bills or rent”.
“She says that her community deserves a strong representative who will put their needs ahead of corporate profits, fight for the issues they care about and be their progressive voice in Parliament.”
Healy works for a non profit in women’s health and has a background in research and education in the university sector.
“We can’t risk Liberals and One Nation who will work for their corporate donors, not their community,” said Healy.
In other news, Liberal leader Jess Wilson was down in Nepean campaigning with Anthony Marsh for the second weekend in a row.
The pair campaigned in Dromana, Rye and Blairgowrie on Saturday morning, before heading to the Red Hill Show where they were joined by Flinders MP Zoe McKenzie. Marsh and Wilson also found time to ceremonously fill a couple of potholes for a social media video. Decked out in hi viz, the pair poured bitumen into potholes saying that if Jacinta Allen couldn’t do her job, they’d do it for her.
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Arrest warrant issued for Jamie Scicluna
Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au
AN arrest warrant has been issued for Somerville-based businessman Jamie (Jay) Scicluna after he failed to appear in Frankston Magistrates Court, as ordered, on 25 February.
The publisher of the STPL News was due in court to face oral examination for failing to pay a court-ordered amount of $5000. After his failure to appear, the judgment creditor signed a “Request for warrant to arrest judgment debtor” that has now been signed off by a Magistrate.
Last year the court ordered Scicluna to pay $5000 to his ex accountant after it was ruled he applied for a personal safety intervention order (PSIO) against her “frivolously”.
The businesswoman had the PSIO taken out against her after she ran into Scicluna on the street on 5 December 2024 and asked when he would be paying the outstanding invoices owed to her company. The order forbade her from contacting, discussing, or going near Scicluna.
The businesswoman was set to contest the PSIO at court in June last year, but Scicluna withdrew the order beforehand. At that hearing, the businesswoman made an application for costs.
The registrar found that Scicluna’s application against the businesswoman was “frivolous” due to it lacking in merit, and that the businesswoman had not committed prohibited behaviour against him.
At the time, Scicluna’s lawyer tendered a medical report to the court claiming her client has a diagnosis
of autism spectrum disorder and explained that he has difficulty with social interaction and communication.
Further, the lawyer claimed that Scicluna was in difficult financial circumstances and had little to no income.
The registrar was not convinced and ordered Scicluna pay costs of $5000 to the businesswoman. Scicluna’s lawyer told the registrar that her client was “not in a position to pay” and sought either a payment plan of $30 a fortnight (that would see the amount paid off in 6.4 years) or a stay of six months. The businesswoman’s lawyer agreed to a stay of three months to allow Scicluna the time to organise the $5000.
Scicluna has beaten a well-worn path to Frankston Magistrate’s Court over the last two years with no fewer than ten hearings over intervention order and financial matters.
In November 2024 Scicluna had a
two-year PSIO and a Firearm Prohibition Order granted against him by another Somerville businesswoman after a Magistrate found he had stalked and harassed her. The court heard the victim endured months of persistent harassment including derogatory behaviour, sexually demeaning behaviour, repeated visits to her workplace, and physical intimidation.
The Magistrate found that Scicluna had referred to the victim as a “c**t”, that he stated he was “out for blood” and “won’t stop until he destroys her.”
In January this year, the Herald Sun reported that Scicluna had faced Frankston Magistrates Court on a dozen enforcement matters brought by Melbourne, Port Phillip and Wyndham councils pertaining to over $16,000 in parking and toll fines.
Scicluna initially represented himself before the Magistrate stood the matter down so he could seek legal advice from Victorian Legal Aid. The court appointed lawyer returned to court seeking an adjournment so a psychiatric report could be prepared.
The same month, Mornington Peninsula Shire announced it would cease all engagement with Scicluna stating “The Shire believes in being held to account along with freedom of press, however we have clear expectations regarding ethical conduct, fair and accurate reporting, and respectful behaviour”.
“This includes concerns regarding past reporting approaches and publicly documented conduct matters, which we believe do not meet community expectations and are not aligned to the Shire’s values or the community we serve.”
Northern section of Somerville to Baxter Trail open
CYCLISTS, walkers, and nature enthusiasts can now enjoy the first completed section of the Peninsula Trail connecting Somerville to
The northern portion of the trail, stretching about 1.2kms between Baxter–Tooradin Rd and Golf Links Rd, has reached practical completion and is officially open for public use.
The shared path is a vital missing link in the grand vision for the Peninsula Trails $7.7m project, a 170km network of connected trails traversing the Mornington Peninsula. Once the Somerville Baxter section is complete, walkers and cyclists will be able to travel off road from central Melbourne all the way to Balnarring.
Mornington Peninsula Shire acting mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro said “This trail is all about connecting our communities and giving people more safe, scenic ways to get around”.
The trail’s full length cannot open until a safe crossing is installed at Frankston Flinders Rd near Hawkins Rd.
The shire said construction on site has temporarily paused while detailed designs for this crossing are completed.
The planned solution involves a culvert underpass beneath the road, a decision guided by safety and practicality.
As Frankston Flinders Road is managed by the state, the project team is coordinating closely with the Department of Transport and Planning to finalise the design, the shire said.
Beek Beek Ward Cr Kate Roper emphasised the importance of prioritising safety for the project.
“This is an important link for our community, and we need to make sure the crossing is safe and works well into the future,” she said.
“We expect the underpass design to be finalised within the next couple of months. Once that’s complete, construction can move ahead.”
Construction is continuing across other sections of the trail with the boardwalk segment nearing completion and is expected to be ready within three weeks, while minor finishing works are ongoing along the route. Meanwhile, de-
tailed planning for the underpass is progressing.
Subject to design approvals and construction timelines, the full Somerville to Baxter Trail and underpass is expected to open by mid-year.
The state government has contributed $3m and the federal government $2m. Council will contribute the remaining $2.8m.
According to the shire, a wide box culvert
Call for tougher oversight on rental safety checks
ONE of Australia’s largest home safety service providers has welcomed Mornington MP Chris Crewther’s support for stronger oversight of rental property safety checks in Victoria, warning that current gaps are putting tenants at risk.
Detector Inspector, a leading provider of residential safety services, backed Crewther after he raised concerns in Parliament this month about shortcomings in the way smoke alarm, gas and electrical safety checks were being carried out across the state.
Crewther urged the Consumer Affairs Minister Nick Staikos to address loopholes that allowed unsafe practices to continue, despite requirements set out under the Victorian Residential Tenancies Act.
In his address, Crewther said renters remained vulnerable to preventable injury and death when critical safety checks were not completed to legislated standards.
Detector Inspector executive director and co-founder Jordan Kagan Gescheit said the company supported Crewther’s call for urgent reform to improve rental safety compliance.
“Chris’ advocacy and commitment to tenant safety will be invaluable as we continue working with government and industry to strengthen compliance,” Gescheit said.
The push for reform has been supported by key stakeholders across Victoria’s rental sector and aligns with findings from an evidence based McKell Institute Report, which identified a systemic breakdown in oversight, auditing and accountability for safety checks administered by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
measuring 2.7m high and 3m wide will allow path users to cross under Frankston-Flinders Road with lighting, drainage and road safety elements.
It will also have pedestrian signals with a level crossing and rail signalling.
Brendan Rees
The report also highlighted results from mystery shopping exercises conducted by Detector Inspector, which found some inspections were completed by unlicensed practitioners in just 15 minutes, despite requiring 60 minutes to be done properly.
The exercises further revealed that a third of providers did not check the proper functioning of a single smoke alarm at the property.
WILL Connard (project manager), Cr Kate Roper and Prakash Khatri (construction officer).
Picture: Gary Sissons
HASTINGS MP Paul Mercurio welcomes the new roundabout upgrade at Coolart Rd and Myers Rd in Bittern. Picture: Gary Sissons
Bittern intersection upgrade completed
A MAJOR safety upgrade at a dangerous intersection in Bittern has been completed, with the Coolart Rd and Myers Rd crossing now reopened to traffic following the installation of a new roundabout.
The intersection, which previously operated as a four way crossing, had a history of serious crashes. Between July 2015 and July 2020, five casualty crashes were recorded at the site, including a fatal collision involving two people. All of the crashes occurred in clear, dry conditions.
The outdated layout has now been replaced with a roundabout designed to slow traffic and reduce conflict points. The upgrade also includes new guardrails to lessen the severity of crashes, raised safety platforms and improved lighting to enhance visibility for drivers.
The $10.6m project was jointly funded by the federal and Victorian governments under the road safety program, with each contributing $5.3m.
Around 5900 vehicles travel through the intersection each day, making it a key route for local residents, freight operators and visitors to the area.
The completed roundabout complements other safety improvements delivered by Mornington Peninsula Shire at nearby intersections along Coolart Rd.
“This was a dangerous intersection with a tragic history and we’ve fixed it,” regional development, local government and territories Federal Minister Kristy McBain said.
“By partnering with the Victorian government, we’re delivering safer roads that protect local families, freight operators and visitors right across the Mornington Peninsula.”
Roads and Road Safety Victorian Minister Melissa Horne said, “Five casualty crashes, including a fatal collision, is five too many – that’s why we got on with making this intersection safer”.
“Roundabouts save lives. They slow traffic, cut the risk of serious crashes and mean families can get where they’re going safely.”
Hastings MP Paul Mercurio highlighted “how badly” the intersection needed fixing among locals.
“This upgrade means parents, tradies and freight drivers can move through Bittern more safely and more smoothly every single day,” he said.
Free Green Waste Weekend 20-22 March
• Residents and ratepayers only. Bring proof of residency.
• All types of garden waste and untreated timber accepted
• No commercial green waste.
• Limit of 3 cubic metres per trip at Mornington.
• The queue may close up to 90 minutes before the end of the day to allow time to process all vehicles on very busy days*
• Save the date: There’ll be another free green waste weekend 22 -24 May.
mornpen.vic.gov.au/greenwaste
Funding shift to fast-track road project
Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au
MORNINGTON Peninsula Shire councillors have approved a $1m funding reallocation to ensure full delivery of the Eramosa Rd East rehabilitation project in Somerville.
The council voted at their 17 February meeting to shift $1m from the Bungower Rd rehabilitation project to Eramosa Rd East under the federal government’s 2024–2029 Roads to Recovery program. The funding boost will allow the project to deliver full reconstruction between Lower Somerville Rd and Western Port Hwy, with completion expected by the end of the year.
A council report noted, “detailed design and geotechnical investigations for Eramosa Rd East have confirmed that the pavement and subgrade are in very poor condition and require full-depth reconstruction”.
The project already had $1.67m committed, but council officers advised this funding fell short of what was required.
“The existing allocation of approximately $1.67m is insufficient to deliver the full scope of works to an appropriate and durable standard,” the report said.
Works will include pavement rehabilitation, installation of road safety barriers, and drainage upgrades along the section.
Council officers said the upgrades were critical for safety and to handle the significant volume of traffic, including trucks, that regularly use the road. Detailed design is nearing completion, with tendering planned for early this year.
The shire report said redirecting $1m from Bungower Rd meant that the project would now be delivered across two financial years [2026–27 and 2027–28] instead of a single year. Officers said this approach ensured both projects can be completed to a high standard without delay.
Cr Kate Roper welcomed the funding shift, highlighting the importance of both roads.
“We really appreciate Roads to Recovery because we’ve got some good things out of this, and these two roads are so important,” she said at the council meeting.
“They’re two of the major crossroads on the peninsula and they’re both in really poor condition in this section.
“It’s really great that we’ve got this funding called Roads to Recovery and this just is a bit of a moving about just for programming and they’ll both be done by the end of next year.”
Cr Roper also noted frequent complaints from residents.
“A lot of trucks move across these and there’s a lot of drainage issues in this section too, so very happy to support this one.”
Cr David Gill also acknowledged the importance of the program but raised concerns about funding levels.
“The allocation criteria for the 2024 2029 Roads to Recovery program are primarily based on population and road length,” he said, highlighting that the shire maintained more than 1700km of roads – “about the distance from Blairgowrie to Byron Bay” – yet received less funding than some comparable municipalities.
The shire’s Roads to Recovery program is funding six projects, totalling $7.17m.
This includes the Truemans Rd/Broadway intersection upgrade in Capel Sound; Arthurs Seat Rd pedestrian safety upgrade in Red Hill; and Bruce St/Watt Rd intersection upgrade in Mornington.
Other projects progressing will be rehabilitation works at Mount Eliza Way (Southern Section) road, Bungower Rd and Eramosa Rd East.
The shire report said the funding reallocation, which was voted unanimously in favour of by councillors, would allow Eramosa Rd East to be rebuilt “in a safe, functional and long term manner”.
Cultures in Connection
John the dunny man comes to Hastings
ARE you old enough to remember answering the call of nature in a little building down in the backyard? If so, you would know about the “dunny man” - he was the one who collected the can and left an empty one.
Towns in the Hastings district had one back in the 1960’s and 70’s, and lanes behind the older houses are a lasting reminder of this almost extinct species.
John Gardner was a dunny man and he has written a book called “Taking Care of Business” which is full of humorous stories he has gathered over the years. John will be speaking at the Hastings Museum at the end of Marine Parade near the jetty on Thursday 19 March.
The Historical Society is holding a morning coffee at 10am followed by John’s most entertaining talk at 10.30am. Admission is $5 for members and $7 for non members and everyone is welcome. Hopefully John will also have copies of his popular book for sale.
Bookings are not necessary but can be made with Lynda on 59 77 4478 , Di on 0490 132 011 or email info@hastingsmuseum.org.au
A HUGE crowd descended on Red Hill on Saturday 7 March for the 98th Red Hill Show. The weather was wonderful, and there was food and entertainment for the whole family. Pictures: Yanni
Community input for road safety funding
COMMUNITY advocacy has helped deliver more than $6m in road safety funding across the region, with residents now being asked to once again play a key role in shaping future upgrades.
The Mornington Peninsula Shire said last year residents raised concerns about hazardous intersections and high risk stretches of road, feedback that directly strengthened council’s funding applications.
As a result, more than $6m was secured in the 2025 26 financial year to support a range of road safety projects.
Funded works include several Safer Local Roads and Streets Program initiatives, such as local area traffic management upgrades at Mount Eliza Woodlands, Marcia Ave in Rye, Keogh St and Potton Ave in Rosebud, and the intersection of Heales St and Hodgkinson St in Dromana.
Several Black Spot Projects were also funded, targeting locations with a history of serious crashes or a high risk of future incidents.
These projects include Forest Dr in Mount Martha, Browns Rd and Jetty Rd in Boneo, Wilsons Rd in Mornington, Tucks Rd and Shands Rd in Main Ridge, and Colchester Rd and Newington Ave in Rosebud.
Local area traffic management
works were also approved for Capel Sound and Mornington.
Council is now preparing its next round of submissions under the Federal Black Spot Program for the 2027 28 funding period and is again calling on residents to share their experiences.
Acting Mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro said community feedback played an important supporting role in funding applications.
“When we apply for funding, we need strong evidence. It adds useful context to the data and helps ensure we’re considering the areas of greatest concern,” he said.
“Crash and risk data tells part of the story. Community experience fills in the rest. We want your feedback on the locations we’re proposing to seek road safety grant funding for, this is your chance to help us strengthen the case for improvement.”
The Federal Black Spot Program provides funding for safety upgrades at locations where serious crashes have occurred or where there is strong evidence indicating a significant risk of future crashes.
Community consultation is currently open and closes 3 April.
Visit mornpen.vic.gov.au/blackspotfunding to view the map and take the survey
Neighbour Day returns to southern peninsula
THE southern peninsula is set to come alive later this month as Neighbour Day returns, offering locals a chance to connect, celebrate and enjoy a day of free family friendly activities.
Following the strong turnout at last year’s community fun day, which drew more than 1000 people, organisers are expecting another big crowd when the event is held on Sunday 29 March at Tootgarook Primary School from 10.30am to 2.30pm.
This year’s Neighbour Day theme, Make Connections, reflects the event’s focus on strengthening community ties and encouraging people to get to know those living around them.
The free event is sponsored by Mornington Peninsula Shire and the Rotary Club of Rosebud–Rye and is open to people of all ages.
Families can look forward to a wide range of hands on activities, including the chance to climb into the cockpit of a mock aeroplane and try a flight simulator, or explore emergency vehicles from the CFA and SES.
Other attractions include face painting, gymnastics demonstrations, a children’s art competition,
craft activities, a sausage sizzle and Devonshire tea.
Local talent will also take centre stage, with live music and demonstrations running throughout the day.
Community connection is a major focus of the event, with stalls hosted by local community, health and sporting organisations. These stalls will give residents and visitors an opportunity to learn more about services, groups and activities available in the area.
Organisers said the event was designed to be welcoming, inclusive and easy for families to attend.
Neighbour Day has its origins in Melbourne in 2003, after the death of elderly woman Elsie Brown went unnoticed for two years. The tragedy prompted community advocate Andrew Heslop to call for a national day encouraging people to check in on those living nearby.
Since then, Neighbour Day has grown into a nationwide initiative promoting social connection, inclusion and community wellbeing.
Organisers are encouraging locals to mark the date in their calendars and take part in what promises to be a lively and meaningful day for the region.
Liberal autopsy tells of Flinders ‘bright spot’
Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au
THE review of the Liberal’s Party’s 2025 federal election defeat has painted a grim picture overall, but makes positive mention of Flinders MP Zoe McKenzie’s performance defeating independent Ben Smith.
The confidential review, commissioned by the federal executive of the Liberal Party and authored by retired Liberal MPs Pru Goward and Nick Minchin, has been obtained by The News
The report did not hold back, with the authors stating “Our recommendations cannot be put on the back burner or implemented over the course of five years. The party’s survival requires urgency, determination and unity”.
Submitters contributed numerous concerns including “about the Party’s future, particularly the fear the Party might collapse or disappear”.
The report had a heavy emphasis on the Liberal Party’s fear of Climate 200 backed independents they refer to as “Teals”.
The report mentioned words relating to “Teal” 56 times, far more than words relating to “Labor” which sat at 35 times.
Recommendation 13 of the report was that the “Teal” movement needs to be confronted head-on in electorates they contest.
“The Party needs the best possible intelligence on Teal candidates –their backgrounds, policies, previous statements etc – so that individual electorates can communicate the facts
about Teal candidates to voters,” the report stated.
“Liberal campaigning in seats held or contested by Teal candidates must start as early as possible and emphasise community engagement.
“The best Liberal candidates in these seats will be the ones with the highest level of long-term community engagement.”
The report positively highlighted McKenzie’s result, among others, against “Teals” stating “Victorian Dan Tehan successfully fought off a Teal challenge in the rural seat of Wannon, as did Leon Rebello in McPherson, Ben Small in Forrest, Zoe McKenzie in Flinders and Angie Bell in Moncrieff, but these are a few bright spots in an otherwise gloomy outlook”.
McKenzie’s margin in the electorate fell from 6.7% before the 2025
INFORMATION on the logistics hub contained in the company’s half-year report.
poll to 2.3% after facing a well organised and well funded independent campaign from Smith. The CEO of Mornington Community Support Centre ended up second in the count, pipping Labor after a three-way complex count process, with McKenzie ultimately prevailing.
The report levelled criticism at Peter Dutton’s lack of appeal to voters and control over the campaign.
Recommendation one of the findings was “The Party must never again allow the Parliamentary Leader and Office to effectively run the campaign. Just as you should never be your own barrister in a court of law, the Parliamentary Leader must never be his own campaign director”.
On a personal level, the report stated that Peter Dutton “lacked appeal, especially to women, but his image was never successfully remade or addressed” and that “Careless remarks, such as Make Australia Great Again, and the creation of a shadow portfolio for government efficiency, reinforced the similarity with the US President”.
Addressing Labor, the report recommended the assembly of a “Red Team”; a group of experienced people to anticipate ALP campaign initiatives and responses to proposed Liberal initiatives and policies.
The report concluded that “The 2025 Federal Liberal campaign failure is widely considered to be the worst campaign the Party has ever fought. It was the result of an extraordinary combination of internal errors by the Parliamentary Party and the Party’s organisation, compounded by several adverse external factors”.
BlueScope plans ‘logistics hub’
Continued from Page 1
The entirety of its “non-operational” land bank across four sites has been given an implied value by BlueScope of $2.8b.
Details of the development plans are scant, but any high-level logistics hub could impact traffic and amenity in the surrounding area.
It appears the development has come as a surprise to Mornington Peninsula Shire with a spokesperson telling The News “Mornington Peninsula Shire Council currently has not received an application for the Logistical Hub or had pre-application discussions with the proponent”.
BlueScope is still fending off the hostile takeover bid with the consortium lifting their bid to $34 per share last month, valuing the company at around $14.2b. The company has not shut the door on the takeover completely, with a letter to the consortium stating “The Board remains open to a transaction at a price that reflects the fair value of BlueScope”.
ZOE McKenzie. Picture: Supplied
Picture: Supplied
Mornington Men’s Shed secures 50-year lease for new site
Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au
THE Mornington Men’s Shed has celebrated a major milestone, securing a 50 year lease for a permanent home at 311 Racecourse Road.
The move will provide a long-term base for combining its workshops and meeting spaces for the communityfocused organisation.
For years, the shed has operated across two separate sites, with its main workshop on Mitchell St and a secondary facility on Wilsons Rd.
The new location, behind the existing Connecting to Australia (C2A) facility, will feature two purpose built buildings. One will house activities such as woodwork and metalwork, while the other will serve as a quieter meeting space for billiards, cards, and social gatherings.
Each building is expected to be close to 500sqm, allowing for expanded programs and member activities and up to 60 car park spaces. The project, estimated at $2.6m, will include significant site preparation, infrastructure upgrades, and concrete parking to reduce ongoing maintenance.
C2A, which operates The Mornington Hub at 311 Racecourse Rd, has served the community for 70 years, was granted a 50 year new lease at the Mornington Peninsula Shire’s 3 December meeting last year.
The project will see C2A expand its service offerings with a café, opportunity shop, short term accommodation, and modern community spaces. The
new facility will also house the support office functions, providing better operational efficiency and employment opportunities for participants.
The lease agreement also extends to the Mornington Men’s Shed, marking a big win for the community group.
The current building at Racecourse Rd has significant structural issues due to aging infrastructure, “making it unsuitable for continued use and
necessitating substantial investment to ensure a safe and comfortable environment,” a council report said.
Men’s Shed workshop manager Tony Sinclair said a new space would allow it to grow, support its members, and remain a cornerstone of the community for decades to come.
“We’ve got one part of the shed on Wilsons Rd and the workshop in Mitchell St – they’re about half a
kilometre apart and it doesn’t work, as you can imagine,” he said, adding the split made daily operations and community programs challenging, underscoring the need for a unified site.
Beyond the physical facilities, the Men’s Shed prioritises mental health and social wellbeing. Regular morning teas and lunches give members the opportunity to connect, share
experiences, and build camaraderie.
“The importance of your growth and the men’s mental health is a very important part of it; you’re able to talk about anything,” Sinclair said.
The shed committee is now preparing to submit planning permission to the shire for the new site while continuing fundraising efforts, which has raised more than $200,000 through community initiatives.
“We’re just getting all our ducks in a row so that everything has been thought of,” Sinclair said.
He also extended the Men’s Shed’s heartfelt thanks to local businesses in support of the project.
Once the development is complete, which is expected to take six months, the Racecourse Rd site will offer a centralised, modern facility that meets both the practical and social needs of its members.
As reported by The News last year, C2A CEO Steven Johnston said the C2A and the Men’s Shed had worked collaboratively to get the “optimal use out of this valuable real estate and provide important services to an even larger slice of the Mornington Peninsula community”.
MORNINGTON Men’s Shed members with Mornington Peninsula Shire acting mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro and Moorooduc Ward Cr Bruce Ranken. Picture: Gary Sissons
BAXTER, SOMERVILLE, TYABB, HASTINGS, BITTERN, CRIB POINT, BALNARRING, BALNARRING BEACH, FLINDERS
Private Family Oasis, Big on Space, Big on Lifestyle, Big on Entertaining
Privately positioned at the rear of the block on approximately 422sqm in sought-after Somerville, this impressive three-bedroom, two-bathroom residence delivers an outstanding combination of space, comfort, and year-round entertaining.
Extremely private and thoughtfully designed, the home opens to what can only be described as an expansive open-plan dining and lounge zone - an incredibly generous living space that truly needs to be seen to be appreciated. Flooded with natural light and designed for seamless indoor-outdoor flow, it creates the perfect environment for both relaxed family living and large-scale entertaining.
At the heart of the home, the stylish stone kitchen is beautifully appointed with stainless steel appliances, a dishwasher, and ample bench and storage space, making it as functional as it is impressive.
The accommodation comprises three well-proportioned bedrooms, including a spacious master with its own ensuite, while a central bathroom services the remainder of the home with ease. Ducted heating and split system cooling ensure year-round comfort in every season.
Stepping outside, you’ll discover a massive covered and Merbau-decked outdoor entertaining area that truly sets this home apart. Designed for year-round enjoyment, this impressive space is perfect for hosting family gatherings, weekend barbecues, or simply relaxing in complete privacy.
Completing the package is an automatic double lock-up garage with secure internal access, all set within a substantial 422sqm allotment offering space and seclusion rarely found in similar properties.
Beyond the home itself, you’ll love the unbeatable lifestyle that comes with living in Somerville. Enjoy easy access to Somerville Plaza Shopping Centre, local cafés and restaurants, quality primary and secondary schools including Somerville Secondary College and Somerville Primary School, as well as convenient public transport via Somerville Railway Station. With beautiful parks, sporting facilities, and the stunning Mornington Peninsula wineries and beaches just a short drive away, this location offers both everyday convenience and an enviable lifestyle.
This is a rare opportunity to secure a private, spacious, and exceptionally well-equipped home in a premium family-friendly location. Inspect to truly appreciate the scale, privacy, and lifestyle on offer.
Shire Hall Beach Box – The Things Dreams Are Made Of
AN exceptionally rare opportunity to own one of Mornington's most prized beach boxes, perfectly positioned on the stunning Shire Hall Beach. One of the largest beach boxes on the Peninsula, it offers sweeping bay views and the chance to be part of local
HOME ESSENTIALS
coastal history.
Beautifully designed and hand-painted by a highly regarded local artist, the beach box features a spacious deck ideal for relaxed family moments in the sun. Bring friends, unwind, and create memories to
last for generations. Store your stand-up paddleboards and fishing gear underneath, fill the esky with champagne, and enjoy a refreshing swim as the sun sets.
True coastal luxury awaits. Just a short stroll to the cafes, wine bars and shops in Main
ADDRESS: 37 Shire Hall Beach Street, Mornington FOR SALE: $625,000 - $687,500 DESCRIPTION: Studio
AGENT: Brett Trebilcock - 0439 209 891, Belle Property Mornington, Level 1, 311/313 Main St, Mornington, 5970 8000
Street Mornington, or wander around to the harbour for fish and chips, with amenities and easy parking close by. A tightly held coastal treasure, only ever owned by two families, is now offered to the market. We don't expect it will be available for long.n
Spacious Family Home in a Quiet Somerville Pocket
SET in a peaceful and family-friendly street, 10 Melrose Terrace, Somerville presents an excellent opportunity to secure a wellproportioned home in a highly convenient location.
Designed with comfortable family living in mind, the home offers multiple living areas and
HOME ESSENTIALS
a practical floorplan that easily accommodates everyday life as well as entertaining.
The central kitchen features generous bench space and storage, overlooking the main living zones to keep you connected while cooking or entertaining. The bedrooms are all well sized, with the master bedroom offering
a private retreat for parents.
Step outside to a spacious backyard with plenty of room for kids, pets, or relaxed outdoor entertaining. There’s also scope to personalise or further enhance the space over time. Additional storage adds to the home’s overall functionality.
ADDRESS: 10 Melrose Terrace, Somerville FOR SALE: $895,000 - $984,500 DESCRIPTION: 5 bed, 3 bath, 2 car, 824m2 AGENT: Billy Dhandwar - 0404 444 332, Belle Property Mornington, Level 1, 311/313 Main St, Mornington, 5970 8000
Conveniently located close to Somerville shopping precinct, schools, parks, and public transport, this is an ideal choice for families, first-home buyers, or investors alike. A quality home offering space, comfort, and lifestyle in the heart of Somerville.n
The Guide
TOP PICKS OF THE WEEK
FRIDAY
THURSDAY
CREATIVE TYPES WITH VIRGINIA TRIOLI
ABC TV, 8.30pm “I’m not really drawn to heroes,” admits actor Hugo Weaving. Perhaps most famous for his role as The Matrix’s menacing Agent Smith, the Sydney-based star aims to find the humanity within the fractured and complex men he plays on screen and stage. Strolling around Sydney with host Virginia Trioli (pictured with Weaving) for this brilliant arts-focused interview series, Weaving shares insights on his career, iconic roles and creative process.
GOING PLACES WITH ERNIE DINGO
SBS, 7.30pm
Friday’s fourth chapter of this travelogue finds Ernie Dingo and Brooke Blurton (pictured with Patrick De Geest) in Far North Queensland as they explore the lush greenery, wetlands and vast savannah of the Atherton Tablelands. They start their journey on board the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a service that winds its way through the rainforest. Dingo then heads to Chillagoe National Park to experience the cultural significance of the limestone landscape to the Wakaman people.
Thursday, March 12
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
SUNDAY FRAUDS
ABC TV, 8.50pm
Suranne Jones and Jodie Whittaker (pictured) as toxic best friends pulling off a heist together… where do we sign up? This thrilling new Spain-set series teams up Vigil star Jones and former Doctor Who lead Whittaker as Bert and Sam, two con artists reunited after a decade apart. Their high-stakes reunion is triggered when Bert (Jones) is released from prison following a terminal cancer diagnosis. She immediately reaches out to the only person she trusts to help her carry out one last epic job. But Sam has been leading a quiet life, and Bert’s grand plan is the last thing she wants to get involved in. With a lifetime of baggage to unpack, this next-gen Thelma & Louise is an emo-tional but exciting ride.
SUNDAY
THE PIANO
ABC TV, 7.30pm
A complete musical solution that can play the melody, harmony and rhythm all at once, the humble piano can whisper, thunder, sigh or giggle as a talented pianist tickles the ivories. In this poignant reality series, everyday Australians let their fingers do the talking as they perform on instruments in public locations across the country, sharing their personal connection to the piano and its role in shaping their lives with host Amanda Keller. What they may or may not know is that concert pianist Andrea Lam and singer-songwriter Guy Sebastian (both pictured with Keller) are secretly observing them, searching for artists to perform at a special end-of-season event.
(7) TEN (10) NINE (9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Tonight At The Museum. (PGa, R) 10.30 The Weekly. (Ml, R) 10.55 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (PG, R) 11.30 QI. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Bergerac. (Final, Mlv, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 My Unique B&B. (R) 10.10 Paddington Station 24/7. (PG, R) 11.00 Make Up: A Glamorous History. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 MOVIE: Los Hermanos: The Brothers. (2021, PG) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Vietnam: The Birth Of A Nation. (Final, PGav) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG) 8.30 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma) The team returns to the frontline at St Vincent’s.
9.35 A Spy Among Friends. Elliott and Lily trail a nervous powerbroker.
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 In Memoriam. (Malsv)
Boniface Mysteries. (PG, R) 12.20 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.10 Parliament Question Time. (R) 2.10 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 4.55 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
12.00 The Hollow. (MA15+v, R) 1.05 Dirty Bird. (R) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. 3.15 Silent Road. (Madsv, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.40 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen.
Catch Phrase. (PG, R)
Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials.
The Chase.
Seven News At 4.
The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 1. Carlton v Richmond. From the MCG. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.
11.00 Kick Ons. Kane Cornes, Josh Jenkins and Jason Richardson debate the hottest topics and preview the upcoming AFL matches.
11.30 To Be Advised.
1.10 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 RBT. (Ml, R) 8.30 RPA: Jane’s Jugular. (PGm, R)
A mum of two needs doctors’ help.
9.30 A+E After Dark. (Mlm, R) A nurse treats an 11-year-old girl.
Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.
1.00 Muster Dogs. (Final, PG, R) 2.30 In Limbo. (Final, Mal, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 My Unique B&B. (R) 10.10 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.00 Make Up: A Glamorous History. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Hospital: In The Deep End. (Ma, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Going Places. (R) 4.00 The Cook Up. (R) 4.30 Jeopardy! 4.55 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.25 Mastermind Aust. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Dying To Be Perfect.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Professor T. (Ma) The Professor must prove his innocence.
9.20 Tonight At The Museum. (PGa, R) Hosted by Alex Lee.
9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R)
10.20 Dog Park. (Final, Ml, R)
10.50 ABC Late News.
11.05 Smother. (Mal, R)
12.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Fukushima: A Nuclear Nightmare. The Fukushima nuclear plant heads towards total meltdown. 10.05 Rock Legends: Simple Minds. (PGs)
10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Sisi. (Mav) 12.05 How Sports Changed The World. (PGav, R) 1.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. ParisNice Race. 3.15 Mastermind Australia. (R)
4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3.40pm Thomas And Friends. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.40 Vida The Vet. 5.20 Millie Magnificent. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 BattleBots. 10.00 Gladiators UK. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. A lead-up to the Friday night AFL match. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round 1. Essendon v Hawthorn. From the MCG. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.
11.15 GetOn Extra. Lizzie Jelfs, Matt Hill, Simon Marshall and Brent Zerafa dive headlong into the weekend’s best racing.
11.45 To Be Advised.
1.30 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
6am The Zoo. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Airport Security: USA. (Ma)
A bag with a suspicious package is flagged for checking.
8.30 MOVIE: Angel Has Fallen. (2019, MA15+lv, R) A secret service agent is wrongfully accused of an assassination attempt on the US president. Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman, Danny Huston.
10.50 MOVIE: Into The Blue. (2005, Mdlv, R) Paul Walker.
1.00 Next Stop. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
9GEM (92)
6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R)
7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Jamie Oliver: Eat Yourself Healthy. Jamie Oliver makes a salmon tray bake. 8.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) Empty-nesters Craig and Belinda are at loggerheads over their fourbedroom suburban Ashmore home. 9.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.40 10 News+. (R) 11.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 2.35pm Where Are You Really From? 3.40 BBC News At Ten. 4.05 France 24. 4.35 PBS News. 5.35 Inside The Huddle. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 The Future. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: The Full Monty. (1997) 10.15 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 11.05 Homeland. 1am The Change. 2.00 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 7.50 Bushwhacked! 8.15 Motown Magic. 8.40 The Magic Canoe. 9.10 Spartakus. 10.00 Undiscovered Vistas. 11.00 Going Places. Noon MOVIE: The Orator. (2011, PG) 2.00 Kriol Kitchen. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Nula. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Colombia’s Wild Coast. 7.30 MOVIE: Zathura: A Space Adventure. (2005) 9.30 MOVIE: Friday The 13th. (1980, MA15+) 11.10 Late Programs. NITV (34)
6am The
World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 8.25 Spitfire. (2018, PG) 10.15 Love Thing. (2022, M, German) 12.10pm Unforgiven. (1992, M) 2.30 Callie & Son. (1981) 5.05 Vai. (2019, PG) 6.40 3:10 To Yuma. (1957) 8.30 Goodfellas. (1990, MA15+) 11.10 Death Proof. (2007, MA15+) 1.15am Defiance. (2008, MA15+) 3.40 Love Thing. (2022, M, German) 5.25 The Movie Show.
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Blue Murder Motel. (PG, R) 1.15 Professor T. (Ma, R) 2.05 The Piano. (R) 3.05 The Piano. (Final, PG, R) 4.25 Todd Sampson’s Why? (PGl, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)
6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R)
6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (M) A teenager goes missing.
8.20 Top End Bub. (M) Lauren and Ned struggle as new parents. Lauren wonders who Taya’s biological father is and if she should contact him.
8.45 Death In Paradise. (PGv, R) Selwyn struggles in the wake of his shock shooting. The local community is rocked by a murder at a care home.
9.45 This England. (Final, MA15+l, R) The country continues to cope with COVID. 10.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.10 Prince’s Master Crafters Next Generation. (R) 10.05 Vintage Voltage. (R) 11.00 Ageless Gardens. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Women. Highlights. 3.00 Stories From The Cities. (PG) 3.30 Going Places. (R) 4.30 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PGa, R) 5.30 Liberation Diaries.
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean: Majorca Pt 1. 8.25 Travels With Agatha Christie And Sir David Suchet: Hawaii. (R) Sir David Suchet travels to Hawaii. 9.20 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey: Nina Oyama. (PGa, R) Shaun Micallef heads to Japan. 10.25 Highclere: The Real Downton Abbey. (R) 11.25 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. Stage 7. 1.25 Stormy. (Malns, R) 3.25 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Chandon Ladies Day and Caulfield Victorian Owners and Breeders Day.
5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Hosted by Johanna Griggs. 8.00 MOVIE: Men In Black. (1997, Mv, R) Special agents police aliens on Earth. Tommy Lee Jones, Will Smith. 10.00 MOVIE: Men In Black II. (2002, PGh, R) A secret agent enlists his former partner. Tommy Lee Jones. 11.45 Highway Cops. (PGa) 12.15 Devils. (MA15+av, R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R) 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Open For Inspection. 12.30 Drive TV: What Drives Us. 1.00 Great Australian Detour. (PGl, R) 1.30 Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 7. 3.00 Explore TV. (R) 3.30 Epic Builds. 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00
6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair.
6.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Six contestants answer multiple-choice questions that escalate in cash-prize value. 7.00 Soccer. AFC 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. Quarter-final. 10.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 11.30 Matlock. (PGadl, R) Julian accompanies Matty to surveil the ex-wife of a Wellbrexa executive while Hunter assists on a manslaughter case. 12.30 Elsbeth. (PGa, R) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. 6am Morning Programs. Noon Blaktrax. 1.00 Motor Racing. Hi-Tec Oils Super Series. Round 1. Day 1. 5.00 BBC News At Ten. 5.25 France 24. 5.55 Mastermind Aust. 6.55 The Food That Built The World. 7.40 Engineering From Above. 8.35 Icons Unearthed: Marvel. 10.25 Marcella. 12.15am A Paedophile In My Family: Surviving Dad. 1.20 Dark Side Of The ‘90s. 2.15 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 2.15 Peter Rabbit. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School: Let The Music Play. 3.30 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 4.30 Little J And Big Cuz. 5.05 Zog. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. (Return) 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.50 Chopped Jnr. 9.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Vai. (2019, PG) 7.35 Discovering Film. 8.25 3:10 To Yuma. (1957) 10.15 Defiance. (2008, M) 12.50pm Long Story Short. (2021, M) 2.35 The World’s Fastest Indian. (2005, PG) 4.50 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish)
7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) The team helps a couple.
8.30 MOVIE: Father Of The Bride Part II. (1995, G, R) A father, already traumatised by his daughter’s marriage, is further shocked by news of her pregnancy. Steve Martin, Diane Keaton.
10.35 MOVIE: When Harry Met Sally. (1989, Mls, R) Billy Crystal. 12.25 Epic Builds. (R) 1.20 Open For Inspection. (R) 1.50 Innovation Nation. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
Tomorrow’s World. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 Helping Hands. 10.30 My Favorite Martian. 11.00 Ice Hockey. NHL. St Louis Blues v Edmonton Oilers. 1.40pm MOVIE: Mystery Junction. (1951, PG) 3.00 MOVIE: Duel In The Jungle. (1954, PG) 5.00 MOVIE: The 7th Dawn. (1964, PG) 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 MOVIE: Broken Arrow. (1996, M) 10.50 Late Programs. 9GEM (92) 7TWO (72) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Jeopardy! Australia. 9.00 Cards And Collectables Australia. 9.30 Seinfeld. 10.00 Soccer. English Premier League. Chelsea v Aston Villa. Noon Golf. Women’s Aust Open. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2. (2011, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Beetlejuice.
Sunday, March 15
6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 The World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 Muster Dogs. (Final, PG, R) 3.30 The Piano UK. (Final, R) 4.30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (PG, R) 5.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Compass.
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (Return, PG) Presented by Guy Sebastian and Andrea Lam.
8.20 Can You Keep A Secret? (Premiere, M) A woman fakes her husband’s death.
8.50 Frauds. (Premiere, Mdl) Follows a woman fresh out of prison.
9.40 Blue Murder Motel. (M, R)
A teenager goes missing.
10.25 Top End Bub. (M, R)
10.55 MOVIE: Judy And Punch. (2019, MA15+, R)
12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.00 Gardening
Australia. (R) 4.00 Dream Gardens. (R) 4.30
A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.15 Prince’s Master Crafters Next Generation. 10.10 Vintage Voltage. 11.00 Ageless Gardens. 12.00 PBS Compass Points. 12.30 WorldWatch. 1.00 Cycling. ProVelo Super League. Grafton To Inverell. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Strade Bianche Men’s Race. 5.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. 5.35 Manhattan Project In Colour. (PGaw)
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Pompeii: Life In The City With Dan Snow. Takes a look at how Romans spent their leisure time. 9.15 Leonardo Da Vinci: The Disciple Of Experience Pt 1. (PGan, R) Follows the life of Leonardo da Vinci. 10.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: Ramses’ Rise To Power. (PGa, R)
11.15 MOVIE: Julia. (2021, Mals, R)
1.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Nice Race. From France. 3.00 Freedom Is A Verb. (PG, R) 3.20 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.20 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage of the match. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 1. Melbourne v St Kilda.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 8.40 Britain’s Got Talent. (Return, PG) Auditions begin as weird, wacky and wonderful acts compete in front of celebrity judges.
10.10 The Hunters: Rentakill. (Mav, R) A look at hit man Christopher Dale Flannery.
11.40 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Unusual Suspects. (Mad, R)
12.40 The Age Of Elizabeth. (PG, R)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA.
6.00 9News Sunday.
7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls)
8.45 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.45 9News Late.
10.15 Hunting Bundy: Chase For The Devil: The Monster Escapes. (MA15+asv)
11.15 The First 48: Skipping School/Gamer. (Mav, R)
12.05 A Killer Makes A Call. (Malv, R)
1.00 Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. (PGalm, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Presented by David Genat. 8.30 NCIS: Sydney. (Mv) The suspicious death of a US Navy chorister draws the team into the world of obsessive fans, pop stars and earworms, as they learn how deadly the music business can be.
9.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav) The squad investigates an assault at a house party where no one can identify the assailant. 10.30 NCIS: Origins. (Mav, R) A priest is killed in a confessional booth. 11.30 10 News+. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 5.00 WorldWatch. 5.25 PBS News Compass Points. 5.55 Smoke And Steel: Secrets Of The Modern World. 6.50 The Architecture The Railways Built. 7.45 Abandoned Engineering. 8.40 Sharon Stone: Survival Instinct. 9.45 MOVIE: Basic Instinct 2. (2006, MA15+) 11.50 House Of Blak: Miss First Nation. 12.20am While The Men Are Away. 1.30 Late Programs.
Programs. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.15 Peter Rabbit. 2.30 Mister Maker Around The World. 3.00 Play School: Let The Music Play. 3.25 Peppa Pig. 4.35 Little J And Big Cuz. 5.10 Karma’s World. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.55 Badgers: Their Secret World. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Merlin. 11.00 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am
6am Morning Programs. Noon Escape To The Country. 1.00 Luxury Escapes: World’s Best Holidays. 1.30 Medical Emergency. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Better Homes. 3.20 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.20 Australia’s Big Backyards. 5.20 The Aussie Property Flippers. 6.20 Escape To The Country. 7.20 Vicar Of Dibley. 8.30 Vera.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Dreaming Big. 2.35 Football. Big Rivers Football League. Men’s. Grand final. Ngukurr
v Katherine Camels. Replay. 4.40 Generations Of Men. 5.00 Alicia Keys Live In New York. 6.40 Wild, Smart And Deadly. 7.30 Our Medicine. (Return) 8.30 MOVIE: Murderball. (2005, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Antwone Fisher. (2002) 12.05am Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
Spitfire. Continued. (2018, PG) 6.55 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 8.35 Jumanji. (1995, PG) 10.35 The Queen Of My Dreams. (2023, M) 12.25pm The Fisher King. (1991, M) 2.55 Vai. (2019, PG) 4.30 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 6.30 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 8.30 Dog Day Afternoon. (1975, M) 10.45 Platoon. (1986, MA15+) 12.55am Vampyros Lesbos. (1971, MA15+, German) 2.30 Late Programs.
Monday, March 16
3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. 8.00 Australian Story.
8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program. 9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser. 9.35 Planet America. A look at American politics. 10.05 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.40 ABC Late News. 10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) 11.40 Murdoch Mysteries. (R) 12.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R)
5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 WorldWatch. 7.30 WorldWatch. 9.10 My Unique B&B. 10.20 Paddington Station 24/7. (PG, R) 11.10 Make Up: A Glamorous History. (PG, R) 12.10 WorldWatch. 1.00 PBS News Compass Points. 1.30 WorldWatch. 2.00 Love In The Walls. 3.10 Freedom Is A Verb. (PG, R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Ancient Builders Of The Amazon. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.30 Oscars Red Carpet. (PG) 10.00 The Oscars. (PGalsv) 1.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG) The Tower marks 80 years since VE Day. 8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) Game show. Hosted by Jimmy Carr.
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) Hosted by Greg Davies. 10.10 SBS World News Late. 10.40 Other People’s Money. (PGal) 11.35 The Old Man. (Mal, R) 2.25 Blood Money: Inside The Nazi Economy. (PGaw, R)
3.20 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PGn, R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning Programs. 2.05pm Over The Black Dot. 2.35 Stories From The Cities. 3.05 WorldWatch. 4.00 PBS News Compass Points. 4.30 WorldWatch. 5.00 Alone. 6.10 Arabia’s Best Kept Secrets. (Premiere) 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Holy Marvels. (Return) 9.20 Greatest Escapes. 10.10 The Cancer Killers. 11.15 Hudson & Rex. 12.10am History Of The Sitcom. 1.00 Late Programs. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 11.45 Andy’s Global Adventures. 12.35pm Ben And Holly. 1.30 PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 Millie Magnificent. 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.35 Gladiators UK. 9.35 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.15 Kids Baking C’ship. 10.55 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am
Discovering Film. 6.25 Viceroy’s House. (2017, PG) 8.25 To Catch A Thief. (1955, PG) 10.25 The Idol. (2015, M, Arabic) 12.20pm Dog Day Afternoon. (1975, M) 2.35 Delfin. (2019, PG, Spanish) 4.15
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Tane breaks the ice. 7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie. 9.10 The Oscars. (PGalsv, R) A ceremony honouring achievements in filmmaking over the past year, from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
12.40 The Agenda Setters. (R) 1.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R) 3.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls, R) 1.30 Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 9. 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG)
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) The next critical phase of the experiment begins. 9.00 Footy Classified. (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues. 10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Paralympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 Closing Ceremony. From Stadio Olimpico del Ghiaccio, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Replay. 1.00 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Presented by David Genat. 8.40 Matlock. The team works to prove a landlord’s culpability after a building collapse leaves multiple people dead and injured. 9.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.40 10 News+. (R) 11.10 The
Tuesday, March 17
ABC (2)
(9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story. (R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.00 Todd Sampson’s Why? (Ml, R) 11.30 If You’re Listening: Black Swans. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Death In Paradise. (PGv, R) 2.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (PGaw, R)
8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi looks at the emotions of jealousy and envy.
Listening: Black Swans. (Final, R) Presented by Matt Bevan.
9.35 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli: Hugo Weaving. (PG, R) 10.05 Compass. (R)
10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Four Corners. (R) 11.50 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 1.00 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
9.30 Dateline: Vienna: A Renters’ Paradise. 10.00 Rock Legends. (PGd) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Exit.
(MA15+dl, R) 11.55 Wolf. (Malsv, R) 2.10 Safe Home. (Malv, R) 3.10 Blood Money: Inside The Nazi Economy. (PGav, R) 4.05 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning Programs. 12.15pm DW The Day. 12.45 Homicide. 2.35 Fashionista. 2.55 BBC News At Ten. 3.25 France 24. 3.55 PBS News. 4.55 Alone. 6.10 Arabia’s Best Kept Secrets. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. 9.25 Into The Void: Life, Death And Heavy Metal. 11.15 Brassic. 1.05am WWE Legends. 2.40 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 1.30pm PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 Millie Magnificent. 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.35 Deadly 60. 9.05 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. (Premiere) 9.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.50 BattleBots. 10.35 Merlin. 11.25 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) David is suspicious of Cash.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
8.30 Doc. (Ma) When the hospital is hacked, it coincides with three patients showing similar symptoms.
9.30 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma) A farmer is crushed by a hay bale. A person suffers a cardiac arrest at work.
10.30 The Agenda Setters. (R) 11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PG)
12.00 Dirty John. (MA15+v)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) The couples reflect at the dinner party. 9.00 The Hunting Wives. (MA15+lsv) The community mourns Abby’s death.
10.00 Footy Classified. (Ml) 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 Next Stop.
12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Destination WA. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Our State On A Plate. 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 10 News+. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Presented by David Genat. 9.00 NCIS. (Mav) A teen’s kidnapping connects to a Navy SEAL Taliban survivor who might have killed after coming home. 10.00 10’s
Man Who Knew Infinity. Continued. (2015, PG) 7.50 Discovering Film. 8.45 The China Syndrome. (1979, PG) 10.55 Tudawali. (1987, M) 12.35pm Ghoomer. (2023, M, Hindi) 3.00 Finding Altamira. (2016, PG) 4.45 Born To Dance. (2015, PG) 6.35 A Matter Of Life And Death. (1946, PG) 8.30 Barry Lyndon. (1975, M) 11.55 Hunger. (2008, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs. 5.40 Finding Altamira. (2016, PG) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Colombia’s Wild Coast. 11.00 Karla Grant Presents. Noon Dream Whisperer. 1.00 Murder In Big Horn. 2.00 Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Great Parks Of Africa. 7.30 Faboriginal. 8.00 House Of Blak: Miss First Nation. 8.30 MOVIE: Malcolm X. (1992, MA15+) 11.55 Late Programs. NITV (34)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 11.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.50 Spicks And Specks. (PGds, R) 2.25 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.50 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.50 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 9.05 My Unique B&B. (R) 10.15 Inside The Steam Train Museum. (R) 11.10 Inside Oxford Street. (Ml, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 The Irish Civil War. (PGaw, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs) Hosted by Alex Lee.
8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG) A satirical news program.
9.00 Can You Keep A Secret? (M, R) A woman fakes her husband’s death.
9.30 QI. (PG) Hosted by Sandi Toksvig. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 You Can’t Ask That. (Ms, R) 11.35 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mav, R) 12.25 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Aust. (R)
5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Great Riviera Rail Trip: Cannes To Juan-les-Pins.
8.25 Lost Grail With Alice Roberts. (PG) Professor Alice Roberts unravels the mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel.
9.20 Prisoner 951. (M) Richard uncovers a decades-old secret debt.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Face To Face. (Mv)
11.40 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av) 1.30 Divided We Stand. (Ml, R) 3.20 Off The Beaten Track With Kate Humble. (PG, R) 3.55 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00
NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
France 24. 3.55 PBS News. 4.55 Alone. 6.10 Arabia’s Best Kept Secrets. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.20 Icons Unearthed: James Bond. 11.10 Brassic. 1am Dark Side Of The Ring. 1.55 WWE Rivals. 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 12.35pm Ben And Holly. 1.30 PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 Millie Magnificent. 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.55 Adv Time. 9.40 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 My Adventures With Superman. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 11.10 Sky Pirates. (1986, M) 12.45pm Banel & Adama. (2023, M, French, Pulaar) 2.20 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 4.20 The Caine Mutiny. (1954, PG)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGas) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (M) Hamish McLachlan sits down with Noah Anderson.
10.00 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Ml)
12.00 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)
1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Explore TV: Antarctica. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG)
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) It’s the second-last commitment ceremony.
9.00 Naked City: HITMEN. (MA15+adlv) With Carl Williams behind bars, the war is over, but ghosts still remain.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mdv, R)
11.30 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 10 News+. Comprehensive coverage of the day’s top stories, investigative reports and stories that haven’t been heard. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Contestants compete in a high-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win a cash prize. 7.00 Soccer. AFC 2026 Women’s Asian Cup. Semi-final.
10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 11.30 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and
Beach patrol leader to shave head for ovarian cancer cure
Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au
A FAMILIAR face on Mornington’s beaches is stepping it up for a fundraising campaign close to her heart.
Mornington beach patrol leader
Susan Young – part of a volunteer group that regularly cleans and monitors beaches across Mornington – is fundraising for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF) after her best friend of 50 years, Michelle, was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer late last year.
Young said Michelle began treatment almost immediately after her diagnosis.
To raise funds for the OCRF, which is Australia’s leading independent funder of ovarian cancer research, Young has pledged to shave her head once she reaches her $5000 target.
Michelle has lost her hair and her voice due to chemotherapy and has suffered a broken arm and other complications, all while fighting for more time with her husband, three children and two young grandchildren.
The pair’s friendship spans decades.
Young introduced Michelle to her husband, served as chief bridesmaid at their 1988 wedding, is godmother to their son and was present at the birth of their youngest child in 1995.
“As a lifelong educator it comes naturally to me to help open people’s eyes to things that can help them,” Young said.
“Cancer is on the rise, and everyone is affected directly or indirectly. We
need to fund research to find more cures,” she said.
“The discomfort of shaving my head just before winter is nothing compared to what Michelle is going through and it’s important to me to show solidarity with her as a friend; it’s what friends do.”
“Her husband is a testicular cancer survivor, and they were at the forefront of the recovery effort after last year’s floods in Taree. They’re the kind of people you want on your side;
‘Wheelbarrow
they’d take off their last shirts for someone in need. I have to look after them and can’t do nothing.”
A public forum aimed at increasing awareness will be held in Mornington on May 20 at 6.30pm at The Bays Cancer Centre. The evening will include a guest speaker and discussion about symptoms and early detection, as well as Michelle’s lived experience.
“There will be discussion of what to look out for in symptoms and to en-
courage people to not just take more of an interest in their health but to notice changes in their own body and to seek attention early if something is unusual or feels different.”
The head shave will be a first for Young - at least for this cause.
“First time, although as a 17-yearold rebel I did have a crew cut after high school. My mother didn’t talk to me for 2 weeks,” she said.
The foundation’s fundraising marketing and event coordinator Abigail
Russell said in Australia, fewer than 50 per cent of women and girls diagnosed with ovarian cancer would survive more than five years – “a figure unchanged for decades, highlighting disparities and gender inequities in research and care that demand urgent action”.
“OCRF is rewriting this story. Our vision is a future where those impacted by ovarian cancer can live healthy, vital lives. To achieve this, we are catalysing change and accelerating progress by increasing awareness, advocating for greater investment and equity, collaborating nationally and internationally, and strategically funding high-impact medical research,” she said.
“Every dollar we raise comes from the Australian community, driven by a shared determination to make our vision a reality.”
Community members are encouraged to support Young’s fundraiser by donating online at ocrf.com.au and searching ‘Research 60’ to find Young’s story.
Donations over $2 are tax deductible. Free tickets to the 20 May forum are available online at tinyurl.com/ thebaysforum. Gold coin entry on the night.
THE late Dame
Elisabeth Murdoch, an Australian philanthropist and charity supporter, was a participant in the push.
Picture: Supplied
Push’ returns to power appeal
THE clock is ticking toward one of Australia’s most significant charitable events for children, with preparations underway for the Good Friday Appeal on the Mornington Peninsula.
As part of the lead-up, Uncle Bob’s Club will revive its long running Wheelbarrow Push on 3 April, raising funds for The Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.
Marking its 55th year, the 29km endurance push will once again take in the classic route along Point Nepean Rd, beginning at Sorrento and finishing at the Safety Beach Sailing Club. The event is expected to draw crowds from across the region, offering spectators a close up view as teams travel one of the most picturesque coastal stretches.
Uncle Bob’s Club has supported the Good Friday Appeal since the 1940s and is urging
people to continue that legacy by volunteering, sponsoring participants or donating online.
Organisers say community support is key to ensuring the tradition continues for future generations of children and families.
Club spokesperson David McIntyre said the Wheelbarrow Push remained a powerful symbol of community spirit and “one of those uniquely Victorian traditions that brings out the best in people – mates, families and workmates all working together for the kids”.
“Every dollar raised and every hour volunteered helps give sick children the very best chance,” McIntyre said.
This year, CFA volunteers will be the ones pushing the wheelbarrow, and they’ll also be door knocking in the area on Good Friday to collect donations for the appeal.
SUSAN Young is fundraising for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. Picture: Yanni
Embattled VFL club appoints new board
Brodie Cowburn brodie@mpnews.com.au
AFTER a period of upheaval, the Frankston Football Club has confirmed the appointment of a new board.
After numerous resignations over the last year, the majority of the Frankston FC board consisted of casual appointments prior to last month’s AGM. The new board is president Pippa Hanson, vicepresident Michelle Graham, treasurer Jason Cridland, secretary Tony Finocchiaro, Brad Sykes, Adrian Lloyd, Peter Hudd, and John Barry.
David Friend resigned from the Frankston FC board at the end of 2024, followed soon by the departure of Marc Ablett in February of 2025. Serving board member Donna Rooks died in August of that year.
Four board members resigned in January of 2026: secretary Jonathan Reichwald stepped down at the turn of the new year, and Joe Benson resigned on 6 January. Treasurer Stephen Batty resigned on 21 January, effective after the AGM, and finally president Steven Finocchiaro stepped away on 23 January. The News is not alleging wrongdoing by any former board members.
The new board has a lot of work ahead of them, and will have to navigate a Victoria Police investigation into financial discrepancies in the club’s accounts and a Worksafe investigation into alleged culture issues (Upheaval at Frankston Football Club, The News 10/2/26).
Former treasurer Stephen Batty said that he resigned after improving the club’s financial situation. He said “my resignation is unrelated to the alleged fraud, rather it is due to a number of recent board decisions and resolutions that I cannot commit to as they do not promote good governance and transparency and are not beneficial to the club’s future.”
Frankston FC has now published its 2025 annual report, revealing it posted a surplus of $33,351 for the last financial year. The year prior it posted
a deficit of $168,458.
In the annual report, former president Steven Finocchiaro wrote “it has been an honour and a privilege to serve this organisation in a volunteer capacity for a number of years.”
“For the Frankston Football Club to be a successful organisation, habits which are antithetical to success must not rise to the surface. Clubs which are united, modern and process-driven win premierships. Clubs who trust the process and the people behind them win premierships. And clubs who appreciate the time and effort that people put into the organisation on a volunteer basis win premierships,” he said. “The board which served the Frankston Football Club – on a volunteer basis - in FY2025 saved the organisation from extinction and placed the club on extremely sure footing. It is now up to all of you to build success from this base and if you wish to see premierships in season 2026.”
‘Please
OPINION
THE above headline was a comment on our Facebook page. It was in response to an article pushing for a speed limit reduction on a section of the Westernport Highway notorious for koala deaths (Push to reduce speed on Westernport Hwy after koala deaths, The News 24/2/26).
The very day this comment was made, the koala pictured above was killed on the same stretch of road.
The small section between Thornells Rd and the intersection of Oneills Rd and Mckirdys Rd is the area of greatest concern on a stretch of the highway that has seen 10 koalas killed this year, and 21 since Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation (MPKC) began recording deaths.
The organisation is calling for urgent action and is working with the shire hoping to reduce the speed limit along the stretch of road to 70kph to improve wildlife safety.
This commentor was not alone. Other comments include:
“Is there proof or were they just squished rabbits?”
“Is the 21 an estimate or is there proof? Animal groups are known to lie to make figures look better in their favour.”
“Joke right?”
“What about the bunny’s and possums??? Stop reducing the friggen speed limit everywhere!!!
It’s a HIGHWAY not a local street!!!”
“70 on the Westo Hwy, that’s not good.”
“All these signs and I’ve only ever seen 1
koala on the road, dead or alive”.
“oh ffs...”
“Oh for gods sake, it’s becoming more and more of a nanny state every day. What are we going to have 40 zones just in case a koala or a duck or an indian myna come onto the road? What’s next our freeways? Get lost you greenies.”
“GET FKKDD! The speed limit has already been lowered. The speed limit has zero relevance to an animal being hit when the average driver doesn’t even try to avoid hitting an animal crossing the road.”
“It’s a highway not a suburban street. What a fkn joke this is”.
Addressing the comments, a post from MPKC said “Another koala was hit overnight, just before the flashing signs... If you think this is all a joke then imagine a koala with its face squashed in/ bloody and think of the impact this has on our wildlife rescuers who have to see this almost on a weekly basis. Not sure that anyone could think it’s ok to treat our wildlife like this! Un-Australian”.
The Mornington Peninsula is fortunate to have wonderful wildlife. But it seems some people think that it is not something to value.
Is it too much to ask for us to slow down a little for a short stretch of road to protect a creature that is considered endangered, and even critically endangered in some parts of our country?
Or it more important that we get where we need to go a minute or two earlier?
Let’s do everything we can to protect these creatures and have them flourish for generations to come.
Cameron McCullough cameron@mpnews.com.au
ANOTHER koala killed on Westernport Highway. Picture: Supplied
Wildlife safety sign vandalised in Boneo
Brendan Rees brendan@mpnews.com.au
A WILDLIFE safety sign installed to reduce animal-vehicle collisions on the Mornington Peninsula has been vandalised, drawing criticism from local wildlife advocates.
The solar-powered variable message sign (VMS) on Browns Rd in Boneo near the intersection of Jetty Rd was recently fixed by Mornington Peninsula Shire after being damaged.
Save Kangaroos on Mornington Peninsula (SKOMP) president Craig Thomson said the vandalism was frustrating given the work being done by several wildlife groups to reduce wildlife road trauma across the region.
“Our group has been working alongside Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation group and Mornington Peninsula Wildlife Action group to reduce wildlife vehicle collisions on the peninsula,” he said.
“One of our main actions has been sharing data of wildlife vehicle collision hotspots across the peninsula with the shire’s traffic management and natural systems teams to install traffic management solutions to save lives and reduce road trauma, not only to motorists who are affected by wildlife vehicle collisions but also our members from our collective groups who attend rescues of wildlife injured or killed by vehicle strike,” he said.
Thomson said the damage to the sign appeared deliberate.
“From what I witnessed when I first saw the VMS sign damaged all the rivets/screws had been removed along the top of the sign and the metal part of the sign that reads wildlife zone was pulled over the digital visual that reads peoples speed and displays wildlife images.”
The incident comes amid increasing attention to the impact of wildlife vehicle strikes across Victoria.
“It is an important issue that has
seen more needed attention provided around this issue with the Victorian state government running an inquiry into the impact vehicle wildlife strike has on Victorians with a report tabled by the Victorian parliament last year from board of the inquiry led by Georgie Purcell from the Animal Justice Party,” Thomson said.
While the motive behind the vandalism is unclear, Thomson said the area where the sign was located had a
reputation for reckless driving.
“As a community we can only make assumptions as to why the VMS sign was vandalised and most likely the area is a known hotspot for hoons who leave black tyre marks all over the road,” he said.
“As such it would not be a far stretch that people who drive recklessly in the area would take the next step and vandalise road safety infrastructure.
“It is also quite possible a motorist might think it is a speed camera, or it could be one of the individuals who deliberately run down wildlife.” Thomson added, “regardless of the reason it is unacceptable and we would call on the government to increase penalties for those who damage any traffic safety infrastructure”. A shire spokesperson said the sign was fixed on 3 March and was now operational again.
THE damaged wildlife sign at Browns Rd in Boneo (left), has now been repaired by Mornington Peninsula Shire (right). Pictures: Supplied and Yanni
Support the candidates who will rebuild Rosebud Hospital
As the by-election draws near, followed by the state election later this year, we residents must think clearly and see who supports our campaign. It is vital that we do not vote for a particular party because we always have and it’s our tradition.
Listen to all the candidates and think about our future. Rosebud Hospital is the heart of the southern peninsula and we deserve a modern, fit for purpose, new hospital.
Alongside of the huge medical support our hospital provides are so many worthy causes that need help and the hospital regularly helps out homeless people, mental health issues and those that do not have family support, as well as the community centre at the rear which has a huge range of support groups and practitioners. There is the rehabilitation ward where we can have help after surgery or a medical issue. Then there is the dialysis unit which is full every day, (and has a waiting list) the cancer centre for chemo, infusions and research.
There are many more important reasons for us to demand a modern rebuild, so get your thinking caps on and do your research into the candidates!
Let’s rebuild Rosebud Hospital!
Sue Gilbert, Rye
Civic responsibility
The forthcoming Nepean by-election arrives at a sensitive moment for Victoria’s political landscape. With Labor not contesting the seat, preference flows, and public perception will carry greater significance.
In this context, the circulation of a verified how-to-vote card for a single candidate warrants thoughtful consideration. Such cards are not incidental documents; they signal political positioning and strategic intent.
At the local council level, the candidate had often been regarded as a disruptive figure. Robust debate is healthy in any democracy, but consistent disruption without constructive outcomes can erode public trust. When that reputation intersects with a state by-election, voters are entitled to examine the broader implications. With One Nation fielding a candidate and recent polling indicating volatility among conservative voters, the potential for vote fragmentation cannot be ignored. Even without Labor in the race, outcomes may hinge on how preferences are directed and how unified the electorate remains.
This is not a partisan observation but a civic one. Leadership, whether local or state, should aim to stabilise and strengthen community confidence. At a time when public trust in institutions is already fragile, clarity, responsibility and transparency are essential.
The community deserves representation that builds cohesion rather than uncertainty.
Anne Kruger, Rye
By-election concern
As a resident of the Mornington Peninsula I am concerned about the Nepean by-election and the recent endorsement of Anthony Marsh. Many in the community are frustrated by the cost of this election. The added perception that a win for Marsh could trigger another council by-election only increases that frustration. What makes this worse is that Marsh previously pledged before the 2024 local government elections that he would “not disappear to run for parliament”. He said “no, none. never!” when asked about state ambitions.
Voters are paying attention. They notice when commitments are reversed and when local money could be wasted. Parties should take note that the community is aware and decisions like this will not go unnoticed.
Labor really should be running a candidate. Give voters choice and demonstrate a commitment.
Chris
Trickey, Mt Eliza
ed me with the vast sums of money spent on Flinders - the beautiful civic centre; artistically painted electricity boxes; 21 page full colour high quality A4 Festival booklet; and there’s probably much more I am not aware of. Now Mt Eliza is to receive get a costly upgrade to a sports pavilion.
Meanwhile in Dromana the community house struggles on in its dilapidated old buildings, valiantly providing meals and food for numerous needy people, as well as courses and connection. Tracy, staff and volunteers work tirelessly to benefit the lives of many. When will Dromana get the community house it so deserves?
It seems the councillors’ (or maybe the six of them?) apparent adherence to the biblical adage “to those that hath shall be given” needs to change to “to those that need shall be given.”
Paula Polson, Dromana
Emil Madsen Reserve
This overdue revamp of the Western Pavilion at Emil Madsen Reserve will certainly be beneficial to the tenant clubs in meeting their ever increasing numbers of participants, by increasing the number of AFL change rooms to four and having two dedicated change rooms for netball. This investment strengthens the commitment to female participation and youth involvement... key objectives of the $15m grant championed by the late Peta Murphy.
Further improvements to ground lighting will allow more games and extended use of these facilities. This site’s location makes it ideally suited as a community hub, with ample space to expand recreational opportunities, engaging youth focused activities as the skate park, bike tracks and flexible consultation and meeting spaces.
The upstairs function area with a commercial kitchen and bar area will allow tenant clubs to hold their own events at “home” instead of hiring such facilities outside the Mt Eliza area. Additionally this area will serve the broader community and the local secondary and primary schools, plus the numerous community groups. School reunions, graduations, alumni gatherings, and formals could be held, plus the personal milestones of birthdays and those special occasions.
The majority of the events are currently held outside the ward due to a lack of appropriate facilities.
This major revamp will create a true “community hub” where families can gather, celebrate milestones and build lasting connections. It is a win for our current community and future generations and this “event” centre will generate the necessary income streams for long term viability.
I have received a numerous enquires and potential bookings for this great space.
Hopefully this facility will be operational by the start of the 2028 calendar year.
Cr Stephen Batty, Kackeraboite Ward Councillor
Waste responsibility
In a recent edition of The News, an article attributed to the CEO of Clean-Up Australia referred to the need to stop waste at its source.
Figures were quoted concerning the major sources of waste which are cigarette butts with the main waste offender being soft plastics representing 80.8% of all waste collected on Clean-Up Australia Day.
The article went on to say that Clean-Up Australia strongly support the implementation of a “mandatory Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme for packaging, including soft plastics, which would ensure producers and manufacturers are responsible for the packaging they place in the market”.
Simple…it is not being disposed of correctly in the first place! If it was there wouldn’t be a waste issue.
If all after-use packaging was consigned to bins domestically and by business it wouldn’t be available to be washed through the storm water system and on to our beautiful beaches and anywhere else in the community.
Seeking to penalise packaging manufacturers for creating product which can be recycled through the shire waste system totally misses the point.
When packaging of any sort has done its job it is incumbent upon all of us to dispose of it correctly into the bins supplied, which will then be consigned in many cases through a closed loop system for recycling and reuse. Come on folks…waste is your responsibility!
David Corduff, Mt Eliza
Shire inception
‘Super shire’ marks its first 25 years.....as noted in The News (28 Oct 2019).
“The amalgamation of 1994 saw the peninsula run by 3 state government- appointed commissioners instead of elected councillors, who were sacked by the Kennett Liberal government”.
“The exit of commissioners and the reintroduction of council elections in 1997 signalled the end of a tumultuous time in Victorian local government”.
The date of inception for the Mornington Peninsula Shire Council is a moot point.
Within Victoria, 210 councils became 79. So the question should be whether these amalgamations are now giving a “Fair shake of the sauce bottle” to Victorians?
In my view, demerging the MPSC in some form is a reasonable suggestion in order to improve services and productivity for better outcomes.
Ant Barling, Bittern
On the road again
The Frankston Council is on the road again with their wish list for council funding for projects. It has asked that candidates pledge they will agree to pursue them if they get elected to parliament at the next state election.
The council has gone to Canberra to get funding for for their wish list for other council projects after the last federal election.
One wonders if the promises will be met as the state labor government is in huge debt and the federal government has run out of funding and is now forcing the Australian Defence Force to sell land.
Where is the money coming from ?
Will the council run a political campaign against candidates who do not pledge to advocate for the council projects?
The Frankston Council should keep their own promises such as before the last council elections to have a report made by council officers into freezing rates which has completely gone of the radar.
No doubt our local member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke will answer the question about who owns the Peninsula University Hospital as the building of the hospital is his major plank in his election campaign.
Russell Morse, Karingal
Fred got it right?
For Victoria’s Labor Party led government, so well financially supported by the recently exposed as corrupt CFMEU, French economist, Frédéric Bastiat’s words come to mind.
“When plunder becomes a way of life for a group... over the course of time they create for themselves a legal system that authorises it and a moral code that glorifies it.”
Howard Hutchins, Wantirna
Electric vehicles
Our local member, Zoe McKenzie posted on social media this week about the rise in petrol prices.
hosts native plant giveaway, The News 3/3/26).
What a wonderful initiative. Too many of our gardens are full of introduced weed species, from sweet pittosporum to myrtle-leaf milkwort/ polygala to agapanthus.
These weeds spread into nearby bush reserves, choking indigenous vegetation and reducing the habitat available to native wildlife.
Choosing a few hardy indigenous species that thrive in dry conditions and support local wildlife is a small step that can make a big difference — one that helps our gardens become part of the landscape rather than a threat to it.
Weed guides can be found here: mornpen. vic.gov.au/Environment/Natural-EnvironmentBiodiversity/Environmental-Noxious-Weeds Amy Hiller, Kew
Global alignment
The United States invaded Iraq, Iran, Vietnam and Afghanistan. Russia invaded Ukraine and Afghanistan. Israel has conducted major ground invasions into Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, and the Palestinian territories (Gaza & West Bank).
China has not launched a large-scale overseas war in decades. Its rise has been driven primarily through trade, infrastructure, manufacturing dominance, long-term economic statecraft, and embracing capitalism that exceeds capitalist countries like Australia.
Maritime disputes and military modernisation, fair issues for debate, but the record shows China’s primary tools have been commercial leverage (capitalism) and diplomacy, not expeditionary war, even like invading Taiwan which they arguably have a point of contention.
For Australia, this isn’t an abstract moral argument, it’s a strategic calculation. China is Australia’s largest trading partner by a wide margin. Geography also matters: Asia is our region. Our prosperity is inseparable from Indo-Pacific stability.
Aligning more closely with China through engagement, expanded trade, regional integration, and sustained diplomatic dialogue, does not mean abandoning our sovereignty. It means recognising and prioritising stability over ideological conflicts. A strategy centred on soft diplomacy, economic interdependence, and de-escalation would reduce the risk of Australia being drawn into great-power war.
Should we continue locking ourselves into ideological war mongering military blocs abandoning diplomacy, or pursue a pragmatic, Asia-centred strategy that safeguards trade, lowers tensions, and positions Australia as a bridge rather than a battlefield?
This is not addressing human rights which the United States, Australia and Russia do not have bragging rights to.
Meanwhile China is twiddling its thumbs and practicing Kintsugi while picking up the broken pieces.
Joe Lenzo, Safety Beach
BarleyCharlie@Almost90
“To make each day count” from the 1997 movie Titanic as I steam forward to 90, mere days away.
And Cooper - “Absence of occupation is not rest, a mind quite vacant is a mind distressed.” Should I worry, accept I’m down on atoms, carbon, oxygen, iron; not really - the philosophy of luck, better than the opposite. Sadly, not for everyone.
Hypocrisy on show, all over the place(s). Australia’s support for the USA/Israel attack on Iran. Nasty stuff, but what, if any, our options, Morrison’s AUKUS?
Sir Donald’s reasoning IRAN (“They were getting close so we decided to strike first”) –fairy floss.
Similarly, no visible reaction in the casinos, poker machines, AFL football, insulated here, there, not forgetting the Chinese invading the Filipino fishermen’s agreed fishing area, where are the Yanks there?
Shire inequity
The inequity of resource allocation by the shire across the peninsula is staggering. I knew Sorrento had a nice big community centre, but attending the Flinders Fringe Festival acquaint-
This is an utterly naive suggestion because it totally fails to apportion the responsibility for the generation of packaging waste into the system…which lies fair and squarely with the consumer. A Question? How does packaging waste find its way to beaches, parks, waterways and bushland in the first place? Why do we need organisations like Clean-Up Australia to have to run clean-up days to collect waste?
If only her Government had not run a scare campaign about electric vehicles and instead had supported their introduction we might have fewer people effected by the rise in petrol prices. The increase is one thing that might just ruin people’s weekends! From a smug EV owner.
Marg D’Arcy, Rye
Weedy swap
I encourage anyone with a garden to visit the Briars Nursery in late March or early April and collect their three free native plants (The Briars
Albanese’s no fool, like it or not in Australia’s interests, sometimes placated by his doona, or plainly fence sitting in the case of Trump’s invasion ( alongside his mate Netanyahu) what alternative?
Angus Taylor, given his way, likely seeing our troops over there, as always, historically; Menzies, Holt Vietnam.
Locally the Farrah by-election, no Labor standing, hopefully Pauline Hanson’s lot down the tube, thus the May 12 budget and “Use it or lose it”?
Time to “come out, come out wherever you are” Albo?
Cliff Ellen, Rye
SPANISH
SYMPHONY
FLAIR IGNITES FRANKSTON
ORCHESTRA’S 2026 SEASON
THE Frankston Symphony Orchestra will set the peninsula alight this autumn as it launches its 2026 season with Pasíón, an afternoon concert celebrating the fire and colour of Spanish and Latin music.
Taking place on Sunday, 29 March at 2.30pm at Peninsula Community Theatre in Mornington, the concert promises a vibrant start to the orchestra’s new season, with tickets available from free for children.
Under the baton of conductor Thaddeus Huang, who marks his 10th year leading the orchestra, the program features an energetic mix of crowd favourites and virtuosic showpieces.
Local violinist Louise Turnbull will take centre stage as featured soloist, showcasing what the orchestra describes as one of the peninsula’s most exciting emerging musical talents.
Audiences can expect foot-tapping rhythms and sweeping melodies, from the infectious energy of Chabrier’s España and Moncayo’s Huapango to the dazzling fireworks of Sarasate’s Carmen Fantasy.
The program also includes Márquez’s much-loved Danzón No. 2 and RimskyKorsakov’s colourful Capriccio Espagnol, creating what organisers describe as a “feast of orchestral colour”.
Offering a moment of reflective contrast amid the high-energy program, Turnbull will also perform Ysaÿe’s Poème Élégiaque, bringing an intimate and lyrical touch to the afternoon.
Founded in 1967 by concert pianist Vera Bradford, the Frankston Symphony Orchestra has been a cornerstone of the Peninsula’s cultural life for nearly
60 years. The ensemble draws together musicians from across the community, including teachers, engineers, doctors and professional performers, united by a shared passion for music and a commitment to making orchestral performances accessible to local audiences.
With its bold repertoire and strong local connections, Pasíón is set to be a highlight for music lovers of all ages.
Where: Peninsula Community Theatre, 91 Wilsons Road, Mornington
Tickets: General $35 | Concession $30 | Student (16+) $30 | Children (15 and under) free
Bookings: www.fso.org.au
PAINTERS AND DOCKERS ARE PENINSULA BOUND
LOOK out Mornington Peninsula The Painters and Dockers are heading your way with a rare regional gig at the Westernport Yacht Club on Saturday 28 March.
Gigs by this infamous outfit are said to be "a total entertainment experience". A band based in punk rock power pop with soulful horns, instant classic songs, flamboyance and showmanship as good as it gets. It’s not a superior air that they bring to the stage – it’s a communal, one-in all-in let’s take this baby to the stars and hang there as long as we can in an orgy of outrageous exuberance. The gig IS the after-party, right from the start, and everyone’s invited.
Do not assume this band is without a message. Do not assume they don’t sound incredible live. Do not assume that your new favourite band won’t be thirty years old.
A LIFE IN PHOTOBOOTH PORTRAITS
STEP inside a photobooth and explore the extraordinary life of Alan Adler, Australia’s most photographed man, in Auto Photo: A Life in Portraits at Frankston Arts Centre.
This moving exhibition celebrates Adler’s life and legacy, spanning more than 50 years behind Melbourne’s iconic photobooths.
Adler ran the Flinders Street booth and others across the city, capturing thousands of photo strips of himself while maintaining the machines. His personal archive forms a unique visual diary, documenting not only his own life but also Melbourne’s changing streets, faces, and communities over decades. At the height of his work, Adler maintained 16 booths across the city, quietly preserving a form of everyday portraiture that connected countless people. He passed away in 2024, but his beloved booths and cultural impact endure.
Curated by Catlin Langford and Metro Auto Photo, the exhibition pairs Adler’s intimate self-portraits with historic photobooth images dating back to the 1930s. Visitors
can view images taken for passports, IDs, or spontaneous moments with friends and family, forming a collective memory of Melbourne’s people and culture.
“Through this exhibition we hope to continue Alan’s legacy and shine a light on his life’s work,” said co-curator Jessie Norman. “These photos are a love letter to Melbourne, and Adler was the city’s unthanked hero.”
The exhibition is fully immersive — visitors are invited to step inside a working photobooth and create new memories, connecting past and present through this timeless form of portraiture.
Auto Photo: A Life in Portraits is a free exhibition at Frankston Arts Centre, showing until 2 May. This project is presented in partnership with the Centre for Contemporary Photography (CCP) and celebrates the enduring magic of photobooths as places of connection, creativity, and nostalgia.
They were only suppose to play once!
Some 1500 shows, seven albums later and tours of North America, Canada, New Zealand and all over Australia under the belt, the band now have an esteemed place in Australian rock history.
Well known songs by the band include Die Yuppie Die, Nude School, Kill Kill Kill, You're Going Home In The Back Of A Divi Van, All Men Are Bastards, Mohawk Baby, I Know Better Queens Than That, New World Order, The Boy Who Lost His Jocks On Flinders Street Station and countless more.
Along their own shows The Dockers have supported the likes of Iggy Pop, Nick Cave, Billy Idol, The Cramps, The Gun Club, The Monkees, Midnight Oil, Jonathan Richmond, Divine, Killing Joke, The Angels, Divinyls and others.
Shocking burning fatality – Aged woman the victim
Compiled by Cameron McCullough
A WOMAN named Mrs. Duggan, aged 90 years, was burned to death at Frankston on Tuesday morning last.
Deceased, with a middle-aged daughter, lived in a three-roomed cottage off Lewis street.
On the morning of the tragedy Miss Duggan, after lighting a fire for breakfast, went in search of the cows, leaving her mother, who was an invalid, in bed.
During the daughter’s absence the house caught fire, and Mrs. Duggan who, it is stated, was unable to move without assistance, met with an awful fate.
Mr. A. Nicholson, who resides next door, was the first on the spot. When he rushed to the scene the doomed dwelling burst out into a solid mass of flame, rendering help impossible.
Mr. Nicholson’s house caught fire, and but for the timely assistance of the Frankston Fire Brigade, under the direction of Mr. J. Cameron (acting Captain), it would have been destroyed.
Mr. Nicholson is loud in his praise of the prompt and efficient manner in which the brigade worked, and candidly admits that but for their efforts he would not have a roof over his head to-day.
Mr. Nicholson was nobly assisted by Mr. J. McCulloch and other friends, pending the arrival of the brigade. The building was badly damaged.
When Miss Duggan returned with the cows she found her house a smouldering mass of ruins and learned of her mother’s fate.
***
Motor Ambulance charges increased
Cr. Alden at last Friday’s Council meeting stated that a few weeks ago a ratepayer of the Centre Riding had occasion to use the Peninsula motor ambulance, the ratepayer being under the impression that it could be obtained free of cost.
Cr. Alden said later on an account of £4/7/6 was received by the ratepayer from the authorities.
On making enquiries he found that 1/3 per mile had been charged, also 5/- per hour for the driver. The ratepayer, continued Cr. Alden, was like the bulk of the people, labouring under difficulties, and if lie had known that the ambulance was going to cost the amount of money charged he possibly would have made other arrangements.
Cr. G. May: Having been elected as your representative to the ambulance committee, I attended a meeting in Mornington last Saturday. The case referred to by Cr. Alden was mentioned and discussed. The Council will remember that the ambulance was a gift from the Wilson Trust fund, and one of the conditions was that anyone could have the use of it when necessary.
In this business we have found there are many who use the ambulance and could afford to pay for it, but they make no effort, and the committee cannot demand payment.
A good deal of the expense is represented in the driver, who is paid at the rate of 5/- per hour. In one case alone we had to pay over £3 for the driver, and the committee obtained no money.
Cr. May went on to say that the best method was to strike a rate, covering running expenses, and collect the money from those who could afford to pay.
Another aspect of the case was that the ambulance was only for stretcher cases and not for those who could be conveyed by other means.
Cr. Oates: It is ridiculous to charge 5/- per hour for a driver.
Cr. May: We hope that with a new schedule of rates the trouble will be overcome.
Cr. J. Unthank said that he had great hopes of the ambulance when it was first commenced, and thought it would be a great boon to the Peninsula, but if the charges were the same as a private car, then there would be little benefit.
Cr Oates: An ambulance that was donated such as this one was should have proved of great benefit to the residents of the Peninsula, but if we have to pay more than what an ordinary car costs, very little benefit is obtained.
These people are on a good thing, concluded Cr. Oates.
Crs. J. Unthank and Alden moved that this Council bring under notice of the ambulance committee the particulars of the case referred to and recommend that the charges be reduced to at least one half. Carried.
Cr. Oates: Does not this Council help to subsidise the ambulance?
Shire Secretary: Yes; £10 per year.
***
Street Not Wanted – Deputation to council
Mr. E. Barrett, on behalf of a number of ratepayers of Denbigh Street, Frankston (who supported him as a deputation) asked the Council on
Friday last to receive a petition urging the Council to abandon its decision to construct Denbigh Street.
Cr. Wells: If you have a petition we will accept it, but it must lay on the Council table for one month. If you make it a joint letter we could deal with it at this meeting.
This was agreed.
Mr. Barrett said the ratepayers had decided that they could do without the street at present as the cost was excessive.
Mr Vesper said he owned a house in Yuille Street and he objected strongly to the scheme of allocation.
There were drainage easements running into Denbigh Street and everyone would have to pay. Not one thing had been done during the 15 years he had lived, and a few weeks ago, had it not been for the townspeople, his place, with others, would have been burnt by bush fires.
If Denbigh Street is to be made then all streets abutting should be made also, Mr. Vesper said in conclusion.
Mr. Humphries: I wish to know who proposed the making of this road?
Cr. Wells: By petition of the residents, and then by a majority of the Council.
Mr. Campbell said he was in favour of making the road but cut out the curbing and footpaths. The road was all they required a present.
Mrs. Howie said some years ago a petition was presented to the Council asking that the road be made. There was an accident at the corner of the street, and they decided to have the whole street made if possible.
Mrs. Hogan said the drainage at present ran through her property.
Some of the women living in Denbigh Street were widows, and they had not the good fortune to be married to a councillor. (Laughter).
Kars street is a disgrace, emphasised Mrs. Hogan.
“Do you know that after walking down Kars Street on one occasion, I was charged with stealing Mildura mud.” (Laughter).
Mrs. Hogan said that she would like to see the streets made nearer the town. The time to make Denbigh Street was not ripe.
“Make Kars Street,” concluded Mrs. Hogan.
Mrs. Britt stated she would like the road made and metalled, but was not in favour of the expense of curbing the footpaths.
Mrs. Howie informed the Council that there were only five permanent residents living in Denbigh Street, the other owners were week-enders.
The Shire secretary informed the Council that a number of letters had been received from residents who requested that the street be made.
Mrs. Howie: If the street is made, is there any discount for cash? (Laughter).
***
Palais Pictures tomorrow night –“Wild Oranges” King Vidor has made the most realistic fight sequence ever photographed for a motion picture! In Goldwyn’s screen version of Joseph Hergesheimer’s “Wild Oranges,” Vidor staged a real fight between Frank Mayo and Charles A. Post.
***
From the Pages of the Frankston and Somerville Standard, 12 March 1926
Scoreboard
Mornington suffers a surprise loss, Balnarring and Rosebud end the season with a tie
By Kennedy McCullough
PROVINCIAL
IN the last weekend of the regular season, Heatherhill took on Mornington in what should have been an easy win for Mornington but instead turned into an unexpected defeat.
Heatherhill won the toss and took to the crease first, with Sithum Peiris making 69 runs and Tahsinullah Sultani making 37 runs off 25 balls. Brendan Walsh was able to take three wickets for Mornington.
Charlie Parker was Mornington’s best batsman, making 64 runs with two batters, Tom Panich and Ryan Smith out for ducks.
Tyler Neal took three wickets for Heatherhill, cementing the win for the underdogs.
Dromana was able to best Sorrento at Dromana Recreation Reserve with a final score of 3/174.
Sam Fowler was Dromana’s stand out batsman for the game, achieving 100 runs not out off 96 balls. Captain Bobby Wison managed 44 runs for Dromana.
Sorrento’s batting was led by Mitchell Bench, who managed 47 runs off 51 balls, followed by Jedd Falck and captain Jake Wood who each made 37 runs.
Red Hill won the toss and elected to bat, which turned out to be a poor decision after Pines were able to take the win.
Though Red Hill’s batting started out slowly, Luke Robertson was able to make 39 runs and Joe Smith-Butler managed 35 runs.
Declan Jackson was a strong bowler for Pines, taking three wickets. Pines’ innings begun just as strongly as it ended, with Cooper Remy achieving 42 runs and Nick Christides managing to make 27 runs off 21 balls.
In a very close game between Langwarrin and Baden Powell, Baden Powell were able to come out on top with only one ball left in the game.
Langwarrin won the toss and elected to bat first, with their captain Taylor Smith making 67 runs not out and carrying the team in their batting.
Dale Elmi put up a strong defence for Baden Powell, taking three wickets.
Baden Powell then took to the crease, with Luke Long making 30 runs and Rhys Elmi making 27 runs, steering the team to a one run win with a score of 7/146.
Next week, Mornington, Baden Powell, Pines and Red Hill will head into the semi-finals.
PENINSULA
OLD Peninsula elected to bat first at their home ground against Seaford, which was a great decision, clinching the win and guaranteeing a spot for Old Peninsula in the semi-finals.
Despite their slow start, captain Tom La Brooy came in third in the batting order and achieved 106 runs off 77 balls, carrying his team to victory alongside Hugh Peacock who made 56 runs not out.
Seaford then took to the crease, and with the team having five ducks and one score of 0 runs not out, there was little hope for recovery. Despite that,
Jordan Desmond put up a nice score of 55 runs off 50 balls.
John Forrest bowled very well, managing 4/14 for Old Peninsula.
Somerville easily defeated Moorooduc after Moorooduc won the toss and decided to bat first.
With a final score of 10/149, Michael Whincup made the most runs for Moorooduc, managing 37 runs. He was followed by Matthew Blackmore who made 23 runs not out.
Captain Chris Brittain notched up 4/19 with the ball for Somerville, starting the team out very strongly.
As Somerville took to the crease, Kiefer Peries achieved 89 runs not out off 119 balls, securing the win for Somerville alongside his other teammates.
Rosebud won the toss and elected to bat first in their one day clash against Balnarring, which ended up in a tie.
Rosebud’s batting started off with Will Jewell making 35 runs and Scott Hayes managing 30 runs off 17 balls.
Darcy Warmbrunn bowled very well for Balnarring, making 4/21.
Balnarring’s turn at the crease was equally anticlimactic, with three golden ducks in the lower order. Darcy Warmbrunn was also Balnarring’s best batsman, managing 57 runs.
Captain Patrick Nagel ensured a tie for the two teams, making 4/18 and allowing both teams to end on 153 runs.
Mt Eliza made the decision to bat first after winning the toss, which ended in a win for Long Island.
Jack Harrison was Mt Eliza’s highest run scorer, making 31 runs.
Avindu Fernando managed to take four wickets for Long Island. Despite both openers out for ducks, Chris Hay and Avindu Fernando both managed to make 29 runs (not out for Chris Hay).
The semi finals next week will see Somerville take on Rosebud and Old Peninsula take on Balnarring.
DISTRICT
FLINDERS made the right decision in electing to bowl first in their game against Seaford, after a close game gave Flinders the win.
Seaford’s batting started poorly with a duck, but Seaford recovered well, with their other opener Karanbir Singh making 59 runs off 44 balls and Anurudda Fonseka making 44 runs.
Flinders then took to the crease, and despite only having two players score in the double digits, they were able to secure the win. Daniel Hille made the most runs for Flinders, with 77 scored off 87 balls, followed by captain Liam Wolters, who made 72 runs not out off 117 balls.
Rye won the toss in their one day clash against Carrum and elected to bat, leading to a win for Rye.
Manu Goraya was Rye’s highest scorer in the batting, making 61 runs.
Jordan Blades also played very well, managing 43 runs off 54 balls.
Carrum then took to the crease with a fairly uneventful batting innings. Corey Hand scored the most runs for Carrum, making 41 off 53 balls. Billy Thomson was not far behind, achieving 37 off 28 balls.
Sashika Sushantha Gunathunga bowled very well for Rye, taking four wickets.
Crib Point elected to bat first after winning the toss at their home ground against Boneo.
Crib Point ended their 40 overs with 5/172, with captain Blake Hogan-Keogh managing 37 runs, and Brayden Gleeson not far behind on 32 runs not out.
Boneo then attempted to catch up with Crib Point, with Christopher Jobling making 35 runs and Dilasri Lokubandara making 23 runs, but Boneo finished at 10/114, handing Crib Point the win.
Carrum Downs won the toss and decided to let Main Ridge bat first, which led to an easy win for Carrum Downs.
Main Ridge had a slow start to their batting, but Thomas Finn managed 21 runs as the second highest run scorer for the team, followed later by Travis Barker who made 31 runs.
Carrum Downs held their ground very well, with Josh Dinger providing excellent figures in the bowling, taking four wickets.
Carrum Downs then took their turn with the bat, with captain Gordon Waterfall achieving 57 runs not out and Eli Halliday making 30 runs.
Next weekend, Carrum Downs will take on Seaford and Crib Point will take on Rye in the semi-finals.
SUB DISTRICT
THE one-day clash between Pearcedale and Skye was a very low scoring game after Pearcedale only managed 10/38, giving Skye the win after only 15 overs of batting.
Pearcedale had a very poor innings with the team having seven ducks in total and Jay Carbone the highest score with only 11 runs not out.
Dylan Campbell was the best bowler for Skye, making 4/11 in four overs.
Skye’s batting was also very uneventful, with Trav Campbell managing their highest score of 11 not out. Despite this, they were still able to make 39 runs and win.
Jacob Regester-Hill bowled well for Pearcedale, attempting to hold down the fort by making three wickets.
Ballam Park won the toss in their game against Frankston YCW and elected to bowl, which turned out to be a good move, winning with 6/155 as their final score.
Jarod Pickering was a stand out batter for Frankston YCW, making 75 runs not out off 128 balls, and despite his efforts to carry his team to victory, he was helped very little by the other batters.
Captain Will Borthwick bowled exceptionally for Ballam Park, taking four wickets for the team and aiding Ballam Park in their shut down of Frankston YCW.
Ballam Park then took to the crease, with Gabriel Lawrence achieving an exceptional score of 53 runs off 22 balls. Captain Will Borthwick was not far behind with 47 runs not out.
Aaron Barrett was Frankston YCW’s last hope, taking three wickets, but Frankston YCW was unable to shut down Ballam Park in time.
Mt Martha’s decision to bat against Delacombe Park turned out to be a good one after they were able to win by nearly 100 runs.
Openers Travis French and Patrick Skelly scored 51 and 50 runs respectively, carrying Mt Martha in the batting.
Delacombe Park struggled in their batting, with three ducks, two of which were golden ducks. Bailey Daffy was their highest run scorer with 24 runs, but that was not enough to secure a win. Harris Rickard bowled well for Mt Martha, achieving great figures of 3/11. Tootgarook took on Tyabb in their one day game, and Tootgarook’s decision to bowl first turned out to be a bad one after they couldn’t recover from Tyabb’s batting.
Tyabb started out well, with Ryan Regan achieving 75 runs off 40 balls, and it continued with Nicholas Taranto managing 59 not out off 43 balls. Tootgarook then took to the crease with hope, after opener Jamie Clarke made 39 runs off 19 balls. But it all went downhill from there, after one duck and two golden ducks things were falling apart.
Joshua Phillips made the highest score for Tootgarook with 46 runs off 48 balls.
Now that the main season is over, Tyabb, Skye, Baxter and Mt Martha head into the semi-finals next weekend.
WOMENS DIV ONE
THE grand final game between Somerville and Balnarring was played at Somerville reserve on Sunday 8 March, and after 30 overs each, Balnarring was able to come out on top with 5/133, winning by 20 runs.
Somerville won the toss and elected to bowl, so Balnarring took to the crease, with Brianna Watson managing 31 runs not out and Catherine Donlon not far behind with 26 runs.
Somerville’s batting stretch then began, with Marlee Black achieving 45 runs for her team and Julie Fearns scoring 27 not out.
Somerville were let down by three ducks in their innings, contributing to their loss, letting Balnarring take home the trophy for the 2025/26 season.
PINES finish on top of the Provincial Firsts ladder at the end of the Home and Away Season beating Red Hill by four wickets.
Picture: Paul Churcher
Scoreboard
Seagulls swoop for Hosokawa
SOCCER
By Craig MacKenzie
MORNINGTON gaffer Adam Jamieson has signed Taketo Hosokawa from Bayside Argonauts and has now turned his attentions to a forward and a midfielder with impressive CVs.
The pair on the Seagulls’ radar are from NPL and VPL1 clubs respectively and would see Mornington entering the State 1 season with one of its strongest ever squads.
Hosokawa, 22, joined Bayside Argonauts last year from Japanese outfit Joganji Toyama.
He’s an attacking wide player who can also play in a central midfield role or even up top.
Mornington assistant coach Marinos Panayi knows Hosokawa well from their time at Argonauts and speaks highly of him.
“He’s a very good player and it will take a few weeks to get him as sharp as he can be as he was on the bench for Bayside’s first three VPL2 games this year,” Panayi said.
“He’s sensational technically and very creative.
“Extremely strong in one-one situations going both ways.
“Once he fully understands and adapts to our style of play as well as the roles and responsibilities within our formation I believe he will play a pivotal role for us this season.”
Mornington has been hit with a raft of injuries and fielded a depleted line-up in last weekend’s 3-2 loss away to Craigieburn.
Campell Steedman scored Mornington’s goals.
The Seagulls’ matchday squad was without Rhys Craigie, Chris and Kosta Droutsas, Liam Grimshaw, Max Civil, James Clark, Kameel Khan and James Kelly.
In VPL1 news Langwarrin lost 4-0 away to Manningham United Blues on Saturday.
Langwarrin started poorly and in the second minute a dreadful square pass at the back was cut out and Yanni Panakos’s shot was deflected past Langy keeper James Burgess.
The remainder of the game highlighted Manningham’s efficiency in front of goal with Langwarrin having 18 shots to six but unable to score.
On Friday Langy faces another away trip this time to Port Melbourne.
Oakleigh recruit Noah Holmes returns from suspension while Kosta Apostolopoulos and Luke Adams remain injured.
In State 1 news Skye United triumphed in a seven-goal shootout away to Craigieburn with a 4-3 win.
Skye flew out of the blocks and a Nasha Hussainy free-kick gave the visitors the lead after just a few minutes.
Skye dominated proceedings for the rest of the half and Marcus Spivey’s simple header had Skye 2-0 up at the break.
Jack Geddes poked home a loose ball from a corner on the hour mark then came a raft of substitutions.
Combined with some careless defending this enabled the home side to score three times in 20 minutes.
From the kick-off following Craigieburn’s equaliser Rama Hussainy finished off a wellworked passing move to curl his finish around the
keeper for the winner.
In State 5 news Somerville Eagles continued their pre-season preparation with a 3-1 win over Mentone at Westernport Secondary College on Saturday.
A Corey Riddle penalty broke the deadlock and the Eagles went in 1-0 up at the break.
In the second half Alex Hall made it 2-0 then Rahman Afzali pulled one back for the visitors.
Cole Ryan then scored from a move he initiated and Mentone couldn’t respond.
In State 6 news there’s a growing confidence at Monterey Reserve that the last three seasons of gloom and doom have been confined to the dustbin of history.
New senior coaches Al Baldwin and Chris Sanderson have not only addressed the need for a complete rebuild of the squad they’ve also tackled the need to confront the despondency that comes with back-to-back-to-back relegation.
“First of all coming to Pines for me and Al has been like a breath of fresh air because a lot of the stuff we wanted to build at Mount Martha was already here,” Sanderson said.
“We’ve been open and transparent with the players that there’s no money here but we’ve sold the club on its fantastic facilities with year-round access and its big history that they have a chance to build on.
“So far everyone has bought into this.
“Thursday night dinners after training have become a big thing now.
“Even the MiniRoos stick around and the senior women have joined in in fact last week two of the women did some traditional African food which was fantastic.”
That was after the senior men beat Lyndale United 3-2 at Monterey.
Pines led after three minutes when Naseer Mohammad played in Alec Keisoglu who made no mistake from a one-on-one with the Lyndale keeper.
Two minutes later Pines keeper Ben Jones came out to collect a long ball but was injured in the process.
The referee waved play on and Lyndale equalised.
Jones had to be taken off and left the pitch on crutches.
Dreadful defending from Pines allowed Lyndale to take the lead and it was 1-2 at the interval.
There was a noticeable lift in intensity and quality from Pines in the second half.
Four minutes in and a superb move ended with Mohammad applying a smart finish to a Kenny Akalan cross from the left for the equaliser.
The winner came in the 65th minute.
A superb Archie Thomas cross picked out Akalan whose sweetly struck half-volley settled the
issue.
In other friendlies Chelsea lost 1-0 to Endeavour United while Monash Villareal proved too strong for Rosebud winning 3-0.
Here is this week’s VPL1 match: Friday 13 March
Port Melbourne v Langwarrin, STRUC Steel Stadium, 7.30pm
Here are this weekend’s third round Dockerty Cup matches featuring local clubs: Saturday 14 March
Mornington v Moonee Ponds Utd, Civic Reserve, 3pm
Baxter v Skye Utd, Baxter Park, 2pm
Seaford Utd v Collingwood City, North Seaford Reserve, 5pm
Here are some upcoming friendlies:
Tuesday 10 March
Heatherton Utd v Chelsea, Bosnia Herzegovina Sports Centre, 7.45pm
Thursday 12 March
Rosebud v Somerville Eagles, Olympic Park, 7.30pm
Saturday 14 March
Frankston Pines v Ashburton Utd, Monterey Reserve, 4pm & 6pm
Sandown Lions v Aspendale, Ross Reserve, 1pm & 3pm
Bayside now Greater Melbourne
By Andrew Ellis
THE Bayside Football Association (Bayside FA) has announced it will officially rebrand as the Greater Melbourne Soccer Association (GMSA), marking a major milestone in the league’s growth and evolution.
The new name reflects the significantly expanded footprint of the competition with teams now coming from across the broader metropolitan area rather than the traditional Bayside and Mornington Peninsula heartland.
This change follows the successful integration of the former Vic Soccer competition three years ago, a move that saw the league expand rapidly and strengthen its position as one of Victoria’s most vibrant community football organisations.
In 2025, the Bayside FA recorded strong participation numbers including 60 senior teams, the largest Over-35s competition in Victoria and the fastest-growing open-age men’s league.
The junior program also flourished with 46 teams competing from under-6 to under-8 age groups.
The transition to Greater Melbourne Soccer Association will be supported by a new visual identity, including a refreshed logo, website and social media presence.
The new logo incorporates a football motif
while retaining a seahorse and green colour palette honouring the legacy of the former Bayside FA emblem.
Founded in 1978 as the Bayside Soccer League, the competition was the vision of founder Tony Hall, who identified the need for an accessible, community-driven football league on the Mornington Peninsula.
With the support of early influencers such as Bill Morrey the competition grew rapidly despite resistance from established governing bodies at the time.
Built on volunteerism and affordability the league was established to ensure more people could participate in the game without barriers that sadly still exist.
Since the inaugural 1978 season the league has served as a crucial pathway for thousands of players and clubs from across Melbourne.
From humble beginnings – seven foundation teams, volunteer referees and local radio announcing scores each Sunday – the competition evolved into a cornerstone of Victoria’s grassroots football landscape.
The new name represents both recognition of this legacy and a commitment to the next era of the sport’s development across Greater Melbourne.
Top two targeted: Mornington head coach Adam Jamieson is negotiating with two big signings from the NPL and VPL1. Picture: Darryl Kennedy
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