RPP FM NEWS WRAP - April 13th- 17th
📰 RPP NEWS WEEKLY WRAP
Frankston & Mornington Peninsula | Week Ending April 17
🚨 CRIME & SAFETY
Drug Dealer Jailed Over Hidden Meth Safe
A Baxter motel became the centre of a drug operation uncovered by police.
Nearly 200 grams of meth was found hidden inside a purpose-built safe.
Jon Brouwers has been jailed for four years over the operation.
The court found the concealment was part of ongoing trafficking.
Frankston Spared in Major Police Crackdown
More than 1,000 arrests have been made in a statewide shopping centre blitz.
Hotspots included Northland, Highpoint and Fountain Gate.
Frankston’s Bayside Centre saw increased patrols but no major incidents.
Police say visibility is key to preventing crime before it starts.
🏛️ POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Edbrooke Elevated to State Cabinet
Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke has secured a seat at the Cabinet table.
The move comes amid a broader ministerial reshuffle.
His promotion strengthens the region’s voice in government.
It lands as pressure builds on housing, crime and the economy.
Nepean Contest Heats Up Without Labor
The absence of a Labor candidate is shaping the by-election field.
Federal MP Zoe McKenzie has questioned the decision publicly.
A diverse group of candidates is now contesting the seat.
The race is emerging as a key regional political test.
Council Split Over Sister City Policy
Frankston councillors remain divided on international partnerships.
Critics say funds should stay local and benefit ratepayers.
Supporters argue global links build cultural and economic ties.
Mayor Sue Baker says stronger governance is now essential.
Fast-Track Planning Raises Local Concerns
Major projects may bypass councils under state planning reforms.
Developments could go directly to the Planning Minister.
Critics say communities are losing their voice in decisions.
Growth pressure is expected to intensify across the Peninsula.
💰 ECONOMY & COST OF LIVING
Cost of Living Bites Across the Peninsula
Rising rents, fuel and groceries are squeezing local households.
Greens candidate Sianan Healy says families face tough choices.
Small businesses and tourism operators are also under strain.
Frustration is growing toward major party priorities.
Luxury Property Sale Signals Strong Demand
A Merricks estate has sold for nearly $14 million.
The Inverary property spans more than five hectares.
Buyers continue to chase premium Peninsula lifestyle homes.
Agents say demand remains strong within reach of Melbourne.
Waste Charges to Jump More Than 30%
Households face rising costs under the draft Shire budget.
A new public cleaning levy will fund tourist-related waste.
Total charges could reach around $570 per home.
Councils say state waste reforms are driving the increases.
Glass Bin Plan Sparks Council Pushback
A four-bin waste system could roll out by 2027.
Councils warn of higher costs and more collection trucks.
Mornington Peninsula Shire is urging caution on the plan.
Alternatives like expanded recycling schemes are being explored.
🏥 HEALTH & COMMUNITY
Hospital Wait Times Go Live Online
Peninsula Health has launched real-time ED wait tracking.
Patients can now check demand before arriving.
The system uses colour coding to show urgency levels.
Officials say it will ease pressure across emergency services.
The Ranch Closes After Five Years of Support
Hundreds have been housed through the community-led initiative.
The facility provided over 30,000 nights of accommodation.
CEO Ben Smith praised local generosity and private backing.
He says responsibility now shifts to the state government.
Illegal Fishing Nets Seized in Frankston Waterways
Authorities removed banned mesh nets from Kananook Creek.
A bream was found trapped during the seizure.
Officers say illegal nets threaten aquatic ecosystems.
Fines of more than $1,000 apply for offenders.
🏗️ DEVELOPMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE
Shire Budget Opens for Community Feedback
The 2026–27 draft budget is now out for consultation.
Roads and drainage remain top priorities for residents.
Infrastructure spending is up significantly year-on-year.
Council says global pressures are complicating planning.
🏭 INNOVATION & BUSINESS
Local Wheelchair Manufacturer Secures $1.5M Boost
Carrum Downs-based Rove Concepts has received federal funding.
The company produces custom lightweight wheelchairs.
New tech will enable 3D titanium printing and automation.
The grant supports export growth and advanced manufacturing.
🎭 CULTURE & COMMUNITY
‘City of Love’ Casting Call Hits Frankston
A real-world dating experience is part of South Side Festival.
Inspired by classic 80s matchmaking shows.
Organisers say real relationships—even marriages—have formed.
Locals are encouraged to ditch apps and take part.
First Peoples Tourism Council Launched
A major boost for Indigenous tourism on the Peninsula.
The Yannabil Council has officially launched in Red Hill.
The initiative aims to strengthen cultural storytelling.
It’s expected to enhance the region’s tourism appeal.
🏉 SPORT
Remarkable Comeback for Hastings Footballer
Bruen Peers has returned after a life-changing boat accident.
Doctors once feared he could lose his foot.
Now he’s back playing senior footy.
A powerful story of resilience and recovery.
Local Footy Season Gains Momentum
Division One and women’s competitions rolled through Round action.
Strong early form emerging across multiple clubs.
Community engagement remains high across the league.
The season is shaping as one of the most competitive yet.
🗳️ ELECTION WATCH
Campaign Promises and Policy Clashes Emerge
Candidates are rolling out local pledges ahead of Nepean poll.
Funding commitments and council performance under scrutiny.
Debate is sharpening across infrastructure and services.
Voters face a tightly contested regional decision.