RPP NEWS WRAP - April 20 - 24th

📰 RPP NEWS WEEKLY WRAP

Frankston & Mornington Peninsula | Week Ending April 24th

🗳️ POLITICS & BY-ELECTION

Nepean By-Election Enters Critical Phase
Pre-poll voting has opened ahead of the May 2 by-election.
The contest is shaping as a Liberal versus One Nation showdown.
Pauline Hanson’s visit has amplified national attention.
The result is seen as a key indicator ahead of November.

Campaign Funding Questions Surface for One Nation
Darren Hercus has faced scrutiny over donation handling.
Reports suggest use of a personal bank account.
Hercus maintains he is largely self-funded.
Pauline Hanson has rejected criticism of the campaign.

Candidates Withdraw from Key Public Forum
The only scheduled Nepean forum lost both frontrunners.
Hercus withdrew first, citing concerns over neutrality.
Anthony Marsh followed, calling for broader participation.
The event will proceed with remaining candidates.

Jess Wilson Warns of Tight Electoral Contest
The Opposition Leader is urging a strong Liberal vote.
She says anything less could weaken the challenge.
Roads and infrastructure remain key campaign issues.
Labor’s absence continues to shape the race.

Anthony Marsh Campaign Focuses on Local Issues
The Liberal candidate has been highlighting road safety.
Community engagement events have drawn local attention.
Potholes and infrastructure remain central talking points.
The campaign is targeting everyday cost-of-living concerns.

🏥 HEALTH & COMMUNITY

Dandenong Upgrade Highlights Rosebud Gap
A $305 million boost has been announced for Dandenong Hospital.
No equivalent commitment has been made for Rosebud.
The issue is now a flashpoint in the by-election.
Local leaders continue to push for a rebuild.

Accessible Beach Project Sets National Benchmark
Frankston’s summer initiative supported over 450 people.
Local businesses and community raised more than $200,000.
The project has drawn national recognition.
Council has confirmed it will return next year.

🌊 ENVIRONMENT & INFRASTRUCTURE

Flinders Pier Restoration Halt Sparks Backlash
Works have stopped abruptly on the heritage-listed pier.
Contractors have been told to secure and leave the site.
Campaigners say funding has been exhausted.
Calls are growing for immediate state intervention.

Campaigners Vow to Fight for Flinders Pier
Community leaders say the halt has shocked residents.
They accuse authorities of ignoring local concerns.
The pier is seen as culturally and environmentally significant.
Advocates say the campaign will intensify.

Illegal Tree Removal Outrages Mount Martha Residents
Decades-old she-oaks have been cut down along the Esplanade.
Residents believe the act was aimed at improving views.
Council has launched an investigation.
Heavy penalties may apply if offences are confirmed.

New Tree Policy Opens for Community Consultation
Council is seeking feedback on a new management framework.
It covers trees on roadsides, parks and public land.
The aim is consistent and transparent decision-making.
Consultation will run through to early June.

🏛️ LOCAL GOVERNMENT & POLICY

Waste Reform Costs Raise Concern for Councils
The four-bin system could add up to $150 annually.
Councils warn of significant financial pressure.
The Peninsula remains cautious about a glass bin rollout.
Implementation deadlines are approaching.

Shire Clarifies Waste Charge Structure
Officials say the charge is cost-recovery only.
It is not a new or profit-based fee.
Costs are being driven by state policy changes.
Residents are encouraged to review the draft budget.

Frankston Vacancy Debate Returns to Spotlight
Shopfront vacancy rates remain a concern at 23 per cent.
A proposed vacancy levy has been rejected for now.
Advocates say empty shops affect safety and vibrancy.
Council says the idea remains under consideration.

Former Mayor Criticises Council Decision-Making
Kris Bolam has attacked the rejection of the levy.
He argues the consultation process was flawed.
Bolam says vacancy rates lag behind comparable centres.
He warns of broader impacts on community confidence.

Community Asked to Shape Shire Budget
The draft budget and capital works plan are open.
They prioritise roads, infrastructure and services.
Council says plans reflect years of community input.
Feedback is being actively encouraged.

🚓 POLICE & PUBLIC SAFETY

Police Launch ANZAC Weekend Road Blitz
Operation Tribute is targeting high-risk driving behaviour.
Eighteen deaths have been recorded in 22 days.
Weekend fatalities remain a major concern.
Drivers are warned enforcement will be widespread.

🛡️ DEFENCE

ADF Ramps Up Activity Across Port Phillip Bay
Military exercises are underway across the region.
Naval vessels and aircraft have been deployed.
Operations include simulated threat response training.
Authorities say there is no cause for alarm.

⚽ SPORT & COMMUNITY

Peninsula Footy Season Delivers Early Surprises
Round two produced unexpected results across the league.
Teams are beginning to establish early-season form.
Sorrento hosted the Toe Punt Shield tribute match.
The event honoured the late Andrew Kelly.

Frankston Sharks BMX Club Crowned National Champions
The club topped 112 competitors nationwide.
Three riders secured individual national titles.
Investment in facilities has boosted performance pathways.
The result highlights the strength of local sport.

🍜 BUSINESS & DEVELOPMENT

Bang Bang Restaurant Approved for Frankston Expansion
The popular venue has been given council approval.
Debate in chambers included a light-hearted exchange.
Councillors sought clarity on the restaurant concept.
The expansion reflects confidence in the local economy.

🧠 SOCIAL POLICY

Victoria Appoints First Minister for Men and Boys
Frankston MP Paul Edbrooke takes on the new portfolio.
The role focuses on wellbeing and social challenges.
It includes addressing online misogyny and behaviour trends.
Victoria becomes the first state to formalise the role.