RPP News Wrap - July 6 - 10th

11 July

Langwarrin motorcycle tragedy
A 16-year-old rider remains in hospital with life-threatening injuries after a collision at Langwarrin. Police continue to investigate the crash and are appealing for witnesses as concerns over motorcycle safety continue.
Police reservist program launched
More than 450 former officers have applied to return as Victoria Police reservists, freeing frontline police for operational duties. Meanwhile a former Mornington police sergeant has been convicted over an on-duty incident in Somerville.
Searoad dispute monitored
A dispute between the Maritime Union and Searoad Ferries has sparked calls for investigations into alleged safety incidents. While services continue as normal, RPP News will monitor any impact on the Sorrento–Queenscliff route.

Labor shifts election strategy
Reports suggest Victorian Labor has downgraded the marginal Hastings electorate ahead of November's state election, while neighbouring Nepean remains without a Labor candidate.
Jess Wilson visits Frankston
Opposition Leader Jess Wilson continued her statewide "Fresh Start Victoria" tour, meeting with Street Peace and hearing directly from young people supported through the Frankston organisation.
Bolam honoured internationally
Former Frankston Mayor Kris Bolam received the "Most Promising Politician" award at the Global Good Governance Summit in Singapore, recognising his work on transparency and governance reforms.
Frankston wins major education boost
Frankston has secured Victoria's new Vocational Education and Training Educator Academy, with Chisholm Institute leading the $10 million initiative from its Frankston campus.
Bolam questions $20 million advocacy plan
Former mayor Kris Bolam says Frankston Council's state election funding wishlist is already out of date, arguing changing economic conditions require a far more ambitious approach.
Pothole investigation closed
Transport officials have closed an investigation into the Liberal Party's by-election pothole repair stunt involving Anthony Marsh and Jess Wilson, with no further action taken.

Glass recycling delayed
Mornington Peninsula Shire has deferred the introduction of purple glass recycling bins, citing significant costs while continuing to assess alternative recycling options.
Homelessness reaches critical point
Community leaders warn rough sleeping continues to rise across the Peninsula, with seven deaths recorded in the past eighteen months and calls growing for increased government support.
Smoke alarm warning
Fire Rescue Victoria and the CFA are urging residents to test smoke alarms and prepare home escape plans as winter brings a higher risk of fatal house fires.
Yawa celebrates five years
Rosebud's Yawa Aquatic Centre has marked five years since opening, highlighting strong community use while renewing discussion over the long-term cost of operating heated pools.

Books, Blokes & Bubs
A new Mornington Library initiative will encourage fathers and male carers to connect through story time sessions while supporting early childhood literacy.
$4 million community grants
Mornington Peninsula Shire has opened applications for more than $4 million in grants supporting local projects, environmental initiatives and community organisations.

Zac Efron visits Hastings manufacturer
Hollywood actor Zac Efron toured Burmak Cabinets in Hastings, where hemp-based cabinetry is being manufactured for his sustainable off-grid home.
Gandel family expands Peninsula holdings
The Gandel family has purchased a $16.75 million beachfront property adjoining Pt. Leo Estate, further strengthening one of the Peninsula's premier tourism destinations.
Wendy's eyes Seaford
US fast-food giant Wendy's is considering Seaford among several new Victorian locations following its record-breaking Australian launch.

Save Our Flinders Pier campaign intensifies
Community campaigners are stepping up pressure on the Victorian Government following the suspension of restoration works on the historic Flinders Pier.
Mornington boat ramp progresses
Sand dredging begins next week at Schnapper Point as work continues on the upgraded Mornington boat ramp ahead of the snapper season.
Casey growth raises transport concerns
A proposed 40,000-person community at Clyde Creek is expected to increase pressure on transport links serving Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.
Beach box overhaul
Mornington Peninsula Shire has begun its first comprehensive review of beach box regulations in 25 years, with public consultation now underway.

Division Two takes centre stage
Only Division Two fixtures were played in the MPNFL as Division One enjoyed a scheduled bye weekend.
Somerville pushes for new facilities
Somerville Football Club has renewed its campaign for upgraded change rooms, arguing the current facilities no longer meet community expectations.

RPP News —written by locals, for locals,

The stories that matter most to Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula

Monday to Friday 0600-0900- Midday – 1600-1800 on RPP FM

Brendon Telfer

RPP News Wrap - June 29 - July 3