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Crossing a line
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Mornington News
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Summer Guide 2025
Make a memory at Dromana 3 Drive-In! EXPERIENCE the magic of movies at Dromana 3 Drive In, where every visit is more than just watching a movie, it’s a nostalgic journey! Whether you’re looking to relive fond memories of the past or create new ones with family and friends, the Drive-In offers a unique and enjoyable atmosphere. Celebrated as a national treasure, we are a Heritage Victoria and National Trust Listed establishment, we proudly stand as one of the few remaining drive-in theatres from the 1950s, blending timeless charm with contemporary entertainment. Enjoy the unique ambiance of our drive-in, where you can sit back, unwind, and watch the latest blockbuster releases under the stars. So whether you’re with your favorite guy or gal, or bringing the kids along, we’ve got something for everyone. From romantic films to comedies, family flicks to thrilling adventures, our new-release movies are screened nightly for all tastes. Before the show, stop by Shel’s Diner, a highlight of the drive-in, immerse yourself in the nostalgic vibes of the 50s, treat yourself to a classic burger, fries or a milkshake! Exclusive to our patrons, the diner features vintage decor, ‘back-seat’ benches, with plenty of movie memorabilia where you can snap a selfie with a Hollywood icon and check out our exclusive merchandise! So whether you’re having a casual outing with family or catching up with friends, Shel’s Diner serves up
the perfect blend of delicious food and retro charm, relishing a taste of the past! It’s the perfect place to refuel before diving into the cinematic experience. Don’t forget, the Adventure Playground is a great spot for the kids to expend some energy before the movie! Dromana Drive-In originally opened as the ‘Peninsula Drive-In’ in 1962 with a single screen, built by the Whitaker family, who still operate it
today, this independent drive-in has a rich history. 100% Australian owned & operated. Here at Dromana 3 Drive In, we celebrate the past while creating unforgettable experiences for movie lovers of all ages. Join us for a night of fun, laughter, and cinematic adventure that transcends generations memories that will stay with you long after the credits roll!
Pictured from left: DROMANA Drive-In: Shel’s Diner, New Year’s Eve musical acts: Rob Pap - Kings & Queens of Blues, Bosley Band. New Year’s Eve fireworks Photos: Supplied
www.dromanadrivein.com.au
(03) 5987 2492 Mornington News
23 December 2025
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Summer Guide 2025 Peninsula LIVE set to supercharge music scene! LIVE music is about to get louder, prouder and more local than ever! Mornington Peninsula Shire has officially launched Peninsula LIVE, an exciting new program designed to reignite our region’s music culture and shine a spotlight on homegrown talent. Presented in partnership with the Live Music Office, OneMusic Australia, and APRA AMCOS, and supported by the Australian Government through Music Australia, Peninsula LIVE will boost opportunities for local artists and venues and bring the community together through music, professional development and performance opportunities. Following the success of the Music Industry Forum in October 2025, where more than 40 musicians and music professionals gathered to discuss the future of live music, Peninsula LIVE will build on that momentum and turn ideas into action. This initiative is much more than just putting on gigs. It’s about creating a stronger, more connected, and economically vibrant music community right here on the Peninsula. Pretty Snazz in the Nazz kicks things off Kicking off the action is Pretty Snazz in the Nazz on Saturday the 21st of March, the first of two microfestivals planned for 2026. This lively event will showcase bands performing across multiple Balnarring locations including The Social Club Balnarring, Balnarring Bowling Club, the Civic Reserve Outdoor stage and more It’s an all-ages celebration designed to bring live music straight into the heart of our townships. Alongside energetic performances, the festival will feature local creatives, pop-up activities and a special vinyl release capturing the sounds of the Peninsula. Pretty Snazz in the Nazz isn’t just about great tunes, it’s about transforming public spaces, celebrating creative expression, and championing the next generation of local talent.
Meet the team driving Peninsula LIVE Working alongside the Shire at the heart of this project are two passionate music advocates: Paddy Donovan, Peninsula LIVE’s new Policy Consultant, and Max Donohue, Venue Liaison. Paddy brings over 30 years of experience shaping Victoria’s live music culture, while Max is a well-known local promoter and festival organiser and is devoted to growing grassroots music and vibrant live events across the region. “I’m pumped to be a part of Peninsula LIVE, there is so much awesome stuff going on down in the ninch. The music community in this area
really is full of so many positive people who just want to help, including myself” said Max Donohue, Venue Liaison for Peninsula LIVE. Get involved! Expressions of Interest are now open for local artists to join our Peninsula LIVE database. If you are keen to perform at a microfestival or future gig, join the movement that’s putting Peninsula music back on centre stage. Not a musician? You can also get involved by contributing to our new community-led exhibition and public art project, Peninsula LIVE: Stories from the Mornington Peninsula.
Peninsula LIVE presents:
Pretty Snazz in the Nazz Saturday 21 March From artists to fans — you’re all part of the Peninsula’s sound. Musicians, join our database. Community, share your local music memorabilia.
More about Peninsula LIVE and ways you can be part of it.
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Mornington News
23 December 2025
Locals are invited to help tell the story of our live music culture by digging out gig posters, ticket stubs, vinyl, photos and favourite memories from shows on the Peninsula. For more information and to apply, visit: artsandculture.mornpen.vic.gov.au/PeninsulaLive or email music@mornpen.vic.gov.au Image Credits: Above: Toody Cole, Social Balnarring. Below: DJ Centipede & the Earthworms, Balnarring Bowling Club Photos: Daryl Gordon Photography
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Summer Guide 2025
Staying safe on the water this summer: A local reminder for the Mornington Peninsula SUMMER on the Mornington Peninsula brings thousands of people to our beaches, bays, coastlines and piers to swim, explore and relax. It is a season built around the water and a time where a little bit of extra care and awareness can make a big difference. The Peninsula’s mix of calm bays, open surf, rock platforms and piers means conditions can shift quickly, even within the same stretch of coastline. Over the past decade, the Mornington Peninsula has recorded 54 fatal drownings, which is nine times the Victorian LGA average. Most of these are coastal incidents, and the data shows the risk is ongoing, with a 99 percent likelihood of a fatal drowning in any given year. These figures highlight why local agencies have combined efforts to improve water safety across the region. Local records show drownings here are most likely to involve men aged 25 to 44, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those visiting coastal or beach environments. Many incidents occur during summer or on weekends when beaches are busiest. The Alliance has highlighted that people who did not grow up around Australian coastlines may be less familiar with local hazards, which is why broader community education is a key focus of the new Water Safety Plan. The Mornington Peninsula Water Safety Alliance (MPWSA), formed last year, is working to address this by bringing lifesavers, emergency services, Parks Victoria,
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Mornington News
SLSA Beachsafe app, heading to the beach. Photos:Supplied
Surfing Victoria, aquatic educators, community groups and the Shire together. The group is finalising a Local Water Safety Plan, soon to be released for public input, which will guide how the Peninsula improves safety for both residents and visitors. Over the past 12 months, a number of serious incidents have reminded us how varied the risks on our coastline are. On Boxing Day, a kayaker drowned on the bay after getting into difficulty, even though kayaking is often seen as a low-risk activity. A tragedy at Rye Pier reinforced the need for awareness. Piers usually feel like safe places to jump in, yet a man drowned after entering the water. Sudden depth changes, strong currents and cold-water shock can all play a part, even when the surface looks calm. Rock platforms remain a serious concern. Last year, a woman died at Cape Schanck after being swept
23 December 2025
from the rocks, and emergency crews responded to similar incidents across the ocean beaches from Portsea to Pt Leo. These areas are well known for sudden surges, unstable footing and unpredictable wave energy, especially when swell begins to rise. One unexpected wave can knock someone off balance, and a rising swell can turn a simple photo stop or rockpool wander into a dangerous situation within seconds. These incidents reflect long-term trends. Between 2014 and 2024, paramedics attended 40 non-fatal drownings, and there were 75 hospitalisations and 92 emergency department presentations involving Mornington Peninsula residents. Most cases involve men, with 83 percent of incidents occurring among males, and 41 percent involving people aged 25 to 44. Nearly half happen on weekends and almost half during summer, when locals and visitors
spend more time by the water. These incidents are reminders, not reasons to avoid the coast, but reasons to pause and assess conditions before entering the water. The Alliance is encouraging people to check the Beachsafe app, watch updates from local surf-lifesaving clubs and Parks Victoria, and take time to understand the coastline before choosing where to swim. Patrolled beaches remain the safest choice, as lifesavers place the flags after checking rips, currents and wave patterns each day. Swimming between the red and yellow flags remains the clearest way to reduce risk. If you are visiting an unpatrolled beach, take a moment to watch the water. You might notice the ocean pulling out to sea, waves coming through in stronger sets or the swell starting to lift. Calm water can still hide currents, sudden depth changes and cold-water risks. These are all
signs that you should reconsider entering the water. There is also a strong focus for skill-building in the community. Board Rescue and CPR sessions are run through organisations such as Surfing Victoria Surfers Rescue 24/7 courses, giving surfers and everyday beachgoers the confidence (or ‘practical skills’) to help in an emergency. Additionally, Surfing Victoria is collecting data on rescues by surfers and recreational water users to better understand their role in keeping Victoria’s open ocean safe. Local aquatic centres also offer essential swimming lessons for all ages from infants to adults helping everyone build confidence in the water and learn essential lifesaving skills. The message this summer is simple: the Peninsula’s coastline is beautiful, but it deserves respect. Give the water your full attention, save the drinks for later, keep a close eye on the kids, and resist the urge to step onto rocks for a photo. Choose patrolled beaches whenever you can, and if something about the water feels off, trust your instincts and get out. Water safety isn’t about taking the fun out of summer. It’s about helping everyone enjoy the Peninsula with care and awareness. With a bit of local knowledge and good choices, the Mornington Peninsula remains a destination that people can enjoy all year. For local safety advice and resources, visit mornpenwatersafety. com.au
Summer Guide 2025
Experience a real day out at Pt. Leo Estate SUMMER on the Mornington Peninsula is always a busy time and comes alive with a mix of holidaymakers and Peninsula locals, soaking up the best the region has to offer. Merricks’ own Pt. Leo Estate is ready to welcome everyone, from those seeking a vibrant experience, to those seeking refuge from the busy beaches. Whether you’re a local, here for the season, or simply wanting a great place to dine, relax or explore, Pt. Leo Estate offers an easy and enjoyable way to spend the day, with great food, award-winning wine, wide-open spaces in its internationally acclaimed sculpture park and plenty more to discover at your own pace. This year, the Estate is embracing the season with extended summer trading hours across all of its three dining spaces. Those in the mood for something refined can choose two-hatted Laura, offering a gastronomic snapshot of the region and named Critics’ Choice for fine dining in this year’s Age Good Food Guide. The iconic Pt. Leo Restaurant is perfect for long lunches and relaxed evening dining with friends, pairing seasonal menus with sweeping coastal views. For something more laid-back, the Wine Terrace is open daily throughout summer, welcoming walk-ins and offering limited group bookings ideal for festive catch-ups, family lunches or spontaneous afternoons in the summer sun. The Cellar Door is open daily for tastings of Estate-grown wines, making it an easy stop for discovering a new favourite bottle or enjoying a glass with vineyard-to-ocean views. On Saturday evenings, it transforms into Vespre, a wine bar offering cocktails, tapas and some of the Peninsula’s most memorable sunsets. It’s sophisticated without being fussy and ideal for an easy, enjoyable evening. For those seeking fresh air and space, the Pt. Leo Estate Sculpture Park offers 16 acres of immaculately curated lawns and native gardens, with panoramic views across the vineyard,
PT.LEO ESTATE. Pictured above: Pt. Leo Estate, Pt. Leo Restaurant, Cellar Door. Photos: Supplied
Western Port and out to Phillip Island. Home to more than 70 large-scale artworks by Australian and international artists, it captivates guests of all ages and has become one of the most photographed and Instagrammed destinations on the Mornington Peninsula. Open daily from 11am–5pm, it’s an ideal pause from the crowded beaches, shopping strips and entertainment precincts. Creative guests of all ages can also join Sip & Sketch, with adults’ sessions and separate sessions just for kids. Summer also marks the return of Summer Socials, a series of six twilight DJ events held on the Wine Terrace lawns. Featuring an exciting mix of local favourites and international headliners, each session brings its own unique vibe. Beginning mid-afternoon and moving gently into dusk, guests can settle into vineyard views, great food, exceptional wine and world-class music. Capacity is limited, so early bookings are essential. To close out the season, Pt. Leo Estate will host one of the summer’s most anticipated weekends with an exclusive Melbourne Food & Wine Festival collaboration. For one weekend only, the legendary Chin Chin will make its Mornington Peninsula debut with three collab events across Laura, Pt. Leo Restaurant and the Wine Terrace, blending bold Southeast Asian flavours with inventive Spanish-inspired flair and Pt. Leo Estate’s signature style. It’s the perfect way to farewell summer as daylight savings draws to an end. With extended summer hours, sweeping coastal views and experiences for all ages, Pt. Leo Estate is where A Real Day Out truly comes to life. From long lunches, wine-tastings to art-filled wanderings, sunset DJ sessions and an unmissable MFWF collaboration, it’s the perfect place to embrace everything summer on the Peninsula has to offer.
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23 December 2025
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Summer Guide 2025
Experience whisky a little differently SUMMER on the Mornington Peninsula is made for long lunches, coastal drives, and slow moments shared over something special in the glass. Just a short detour off the freeway at Somerville, Chief’s Son Distillery is the perfect addition to your Mornington Peninsula itinerary, a welcoming, family-owned distillery where craftsmanship, character, and award-winning Single Malt Whiskies take centre stage. From the moment you step into the distillery door, you’re invited to experience whisky a little differently. Chief’s Son is renowned for its smooth, full bodied Single Malt Whiskies, crafted on site and shaped by the region’s coastal climate. Whether you’re a longtime whisky lover or just starting your journey, the distillery offers plenty of ways to explore and enjoy, regardless of the season. For an easy, walk-in experience, visit the tasting room Monday
to Saturday. Tastings are relaxed yet guided, giving you the chance to sample a curated selection of whiskies, learn about the grainto-glass process, and uncover the stories behind each release. It’s the ideal stop after a morning at the beach, a local market visit, or a loop of nearby cellar doors and breweries. If you’re looking for the perfect summer gift or a way to extend the experience at home, Chief’s Son offers whisky tasting packs that showcase their core and special releases, a great way to discover a new favourite. Gift vouchers are also available, redeemable for tastings, tours, or bottles, making them a thoughtful option for birthdays, or a “just because” treat for the whisky fan in your life. For those wanting to dive deeper, the Distillery Tours are a standout. Running Fridays and Saturdays and hosted exclusively by the distillers, these bookable sessions take you behind the scenes of the working
distillery. You’ll explore how Chief’s Son crafts its Single Malt Whiskies, sample whisky directly from the barrel, fill your own 100 ml sample bottle to take home, and finish with a guided tasting of the core range. It’s an immersive, hands-on experience that’s perfect for small groups, families, or friends keen to reconnect over a shared love of great whisky. This summer also brings exciting new releases. Distiller’s Select 2025 showcases a collaboration with local craft favourite Dainton Brewery, maturing Single Malt Whisky in
Dark Lord Imperial Beer Stout casks. The result is a rich, complex whisky layered with dark chocolate, roasted malt, and subtle sweetness, a limited, small-batch expression that will appeal to collectors, beer enthusiasts, and adventurous whisky drinkers alike. Adding to the innovation, keep an eye out for Black Forge, Chief’s Son’s first Whisky Coffee creation. Crafted for warm days and balmy evenings, Black Forge is designed to be enjoyed over ice, a bold, smooth serve that blends whisky depth with
25/50 Guelph St SOMERVILLE 03 9013 0859 - chiefsson.com.au
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Mornington News
23 December 2025
coffee richness, ideal for lingering summer catch-ups. Whether you’re planning a day of touring the Peninsula, hosting visiting friends, or simply chasing a memorable summer experience, Chief’s Son Distillery offers a true taste of local craft. With welcoming tastings, immersive tours, thoughtful gifts, and expressive Single Malt Whiskies, it’s a destination where every sip tells a story of place, family, and the Mornington Peninsula itself.
Mornington News
23 December 2025
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Mornington News
23 December 2025
Summer Guide 2025
Be in your element this season at Elements Eatery SUMMER on the Mornington Peninsula is all about coastal breezes, lazy afternoons, and making the most of the long, sun-soaked days. Elements Eatery, is your everyday local café, perfectly positioned as a destination for those seeking delicious, fresh meals after a day at the beach, a workout at YAWA, or a family outing. Celebrate the season with our healthy, flavour-packed menu, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the essence of summer on the Peninsula. Whether you’re lounging poolside, catching up with friends, or need a quick and nourishing bite, our seasonal specials are designed to complement your summer adventures. From zesty salads to hearty breakfasts, cooling smoothies, and locally roasted Boneo Road coffee, there’s something for everyone. Plus, we’re here to keep your summer stress-free with grab and go options for your beach picnics, gatherings, or even the workdays that sneak in between holidays. So, whether you’re a local or visiting the coast, Elements Eatery invites you to relax, refuel, and connect in a space where community and great food meet. Open 7days a week all summer dine inside, outside, or poolside at the awardwinning Elements Eatery. 100 Besgrove St, Rosebud. Ph: 5982 6020. elementseatery.com.au
ELEMENTS Eatery Photos: Yves Eyes Photography & Willow Creative
Your everyday local on the Mornington Peninsula See you soon... Yawa Aquatic Centre 100 Besgrove St, Rosebud 03 5982 6020
elementseatery.com.au EATERY • EVENTS • KIOSK Mornington News
23 December 2025
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A PLACE TO PLAY THIS SUMMER
SKIP THE QUEUES. Scan the QR code to purchase your aquatic entry online.
Our aquatic facilities cater for the whole family:
• Kids splash bucket, water sprayers & slides
• Learn to swim pool • Pool inflatable • Toodler pool
yawa.com.au PAGE L
Mornington News
23 December 2025
• Spa, sauna & steam room • Warm water pool • 50m pool
YAWA AQUATIC CENTRE HEALTH & WELLNESS FACILITIES INCLUDE:
• 24/7 Gym • Reformer Pilates • Aqua Aerobics • Exercise Physiology
• 24/7 Cycle Studio • Group Fitness • Personal Training • Elements Eatery Cafe
Mornington News
23 December 2025
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Summer Guide 2025
Mordialloc set to shine again as Christmas Summer Carnival returns EACH summer, the Mordialloc foreshore transforms into a vibrant playground of colour, music and community spirit - and this year will be no exception. The much-anticipated Mordialloc Christmas Summer Carnival, presented by Smart Amusements, is gearing up for another spectacular season at Peter Scullin Reserve. Opening on Boxing Day and running right through to 26 January 2026, the carnival has become a beloved highlight of the summer calendar for families across Melbourne’s southeast. Nestled beside the beach and framed by ocean breezes, the setting itself is part of the attraction. But it’s the energy, atmosphere and infectious sense of fun that truly draw crowds back year after year. Visitors can expect a wide range of classic carnival rides including crowd favourites such as the Dodgem Cars, Dragon Coaster, Fun Slide and Tea Cups, as well as an all new ride – the Soundwave - all designed to delight thrillseekers and younger riders alike. Unlimited-ride wristbands are available for $39, giving guests two and a half hours of non-stop fun across three daily sessions: 1.00-3.30pm, 3.30-6.00pm, and 6.00-8.30pm. Wristbands can be purchased online or on site, with individual ride tokens also on offer. Colourful sideshow games, showbags, and a delicious selection of carnival food complete the experience, ensuring there’s something for every age and taste. Beyond the rides and attractions, the Mordialloc Christmas Summer Carnival has become an important part of the local community fabric. For many families, it marks the unofficial start of the post-Christmas holiday period, offering a relaxed and welcoming place for people to come together with friends, visitors and relatives who have travelled for the festive season. The carnival also plays a meaningful role in supporting local groups. The long-standing partnership with the Mordialloc Sporting Club,
which runs a fundraising BBQ on both New Year’s Eve and Australia Day, provides muchneeded support for the club while adding to the lively atmosphere of the event. One of the biggest annual drawcards is the carnival’s spectacular fireworks displays, held at 9.30pm on New Year’s Eve and Australia Day. These much-loved community celebrations light up the sky over the bay, attracting thousands of spectators who gather along the reserve with picnic rugs, deck chairs and cameras at the ready. Families appreciate the early timeslot,
allowing children to enjoy the magic of fireworks without the midnight finish, while still creating a festive, memorable night out The fireworks have become a tradition in their own right, symbolising the joy, connection and celebration that the carnival brings to the area. This year’s event promises the same warm summer nostalgia that locals have come to cherish. The combination of gentle sea air, glowing carnival lights and the delighted laughter of children creates a uniquely Mordialloc experience, one that captures the essence of Australian summer Z
Whether it’s the excitement of a high-flying ride, the simple pleasure of sharing sugary sweats, or the friendly competition of a sideshow game, the carnival offers moments that become family memories long after the season ends With its blend of tradition, entertainment and community spirit, the Mordialloc Christmas Summer Carnival continues to be a hallmark event for the region. As the gates open again this summer, locals and visitors alike can look forward to another season of fun, connection and unforgettable seaside moments.
Carnival
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For more information see www.smartamusements.com.au/mordialloc
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Mornington News
23 December 2025
Crittenden
WIN
A Crittenden package valued at $1,840* Enter at visitmp.org/win or scan the QR code Entries close 11.59pm Thursday, 26 February 2026. Winner announced 9.30am Friday, 27 February 2026.
Prize Includes: • Lakeside Villa 2-Night Stay* • Crittenden Restaurant Mid-week Lunch* • Crittenden Cellar Door VIP Tasting* • Crittenden Wine Of Your Choice To Take Home* • Peninsula Hot Springs $200 Bathing Voucher* *Terms and Conditions apply. See website for details,
SCAN HERE
VisitMorningtonPeninsula.org/Win Mornington News
23 December 2025
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The best of the Mornington Peninsula shines in summer, where every day invites a diff erent experience. Soak in thermal bathing, cool off with cold plunges, or tee off on world-class fairways before settling in for long lunches and relaxed drinks. Glide above the treetops, wander gardens, or share laughter at family-friendly attractions and events. Discover award-winning distilleries, local breweries and destination dining, then cruise the bay with lunch or high tea on the water. From coastal adventures to moments of pure indulgence, summer is the season to experience the very best of the Mornington Peninsula.
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Peninsula Hot Springs
Alba Thermal Springs & Spa
Moonah Links Golf Resort
Discover Cool Moments at Peninsula Hot Springs, with shaded cool zones, pools chilled by misters, 20º pools, gelati, acai treats, iced refreshments, plus ice cave and body clay experiences.
Unwind in beautifully designed thermal pools, or cooler pools perfect for summer. Enjoy a peaceful soak coupled with dining in Thyme, a destination restaurant that invites you to truly take time for you.
Tee off on world-class fairways shaped by rolling dunes, then celebrate the round at Spikes Bar, where the 19th hole brings relaxed drinks, great food and sweeping course views.
140 Springs Lane, Fingal
282 Browns Road, Fingal
55 Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal
Chief’s Son Distillery
Enchanted Adventure
Mornington Racecourse
Discover an internationally award-winning distillery, where small-batch spirits shine and the Secrets of the Still tour reveal true craftsmanship, stories and tastings worth savouring.
Fun for everyone, ride the Tube Slides, fly on Tree Surfing courses, or slow things down wandering whimsical gardens, sharing summer sunshine, laughter and memorable moments together.
Experience a thrilling summer of racing capped by a New Year’s Day celebration with free kids rides, live entertainment, family fun zones, great food and trackside excitement for all.
25/50 Guelph Street, Somerville
55 Purves Road, Arthurs Seat
320 Racecourse Road, Mornington
Pt. Leo Estate
The Continental Sorrento
Aurora Spa & Bathhouse
Dance into summer at Pt. Leo Estate’s Summer Socials, where vineyard vibes, golden sunsets over the Sculpture Park, and a rotating line-up of DJs come together for unforgettable evenings.
Summer comes alive with a full calendar of seaside events, and the opening of Ember, a bold new dining experience bringing fire, flavour and energy to Sorrento’s iconic foreshore.
Settle into a calmer rhythm with the all-weather 11-step Bathhouse experience. Included are mineral bathing, contrast therapy, Nordic sauna and aroma steam room. Deep relaxation and time just for you.
3649 Frankston-Flinders Road, Merricks
1-21 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento
23 Constitution Hill Road, Sorrento
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23 December 2025
Jetty Road Brewery
Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill
Searoad Ferries
Settle in for summer with cold house brewed ales, a relaxed beer garden, kid friendly spaces and dogs welcome, making it an easy, laid-back spot to gather and unwind.
Indulge in long summer lunches at The Dining Room, paired with estate wines from the Cellar Door, surrounded by gardens that invite conversation and unhurried Peninsula moments.
Join Searoad Ferries for Sunset Sessions on the Bay, departing from Sorrento on the 7th or 14th of January from 7pm for a 2-hour sunset cruise with live music. $35 per person. Bookings essential.
12-14 Brasser Avenue, Dromana
142 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill
Sorrento Pier, Esplanade, Sorrento
Tar Barrel Brewery & Distillery
Arthurs Seat Eagle
What's On
Pull up a seat for small batch brews, handcrafted spirits and relaxed summer vibes, where great food, outdoor tables and local flavour make it an easy place to linger longer.
Glide above the treetops on a scenic gondola. Ride where bay views meet fresh air and adventure, delivering an elevated, all-inclusive experience high above the Peninsula.
72 Watt Road, Mornington
795 Arthurs Seat Rd, Dromana
Embrace the unforgettable experiences that make the Mornington Peninsula a place to celebrate all year! From outdoor markets, world-class food and wine festivals, family-friendly events, and hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone.
VisitMorningtonPeninsula.org Mornington News
23 December 2025
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FLINDERS Sourdough at Hill & Ridge Community Market. Photo: Supplied
Hill & Ridge Community market SET against the picturesque backdrop of Red Hill, the Hill & Ridge Community Market is a monthly gathering celebrating the region’s makers, growers, and artisans. Held on the first Saturday of the month from September through to May, the market transforms the Red Hill Recreation Reserve into a welcoming country meeting place for locals and visitors alike. Showcasing the best of the Mornington Peninsula and beyond, the market places fresh, seasonal produce at its heart, alongside handmade goods, local art, vintage finds, and thoughtful gifts created by a diverse mix of talented makers. This month’s featured stallholders include Peninsula Pops, serving handcrafted icy treats made with real fruit; Telera Wines, known for their cool-climate wines; and Chanelle Wooldridge, whose considered designs reflect a strong sense of place.
Live music weaves through the market each month, adding to the relaxed rhythm of a country morning spent wandering, grazing, and discovering something new - a true gathering of good things in the heart of Red Hill. What truly sets the Hill & Ridge Community Market apart is its strong sense of community. Created by the community, for the community, it supports local businesses, clubs, and volunteer-run organisations while offering a relaxed place to shop, explore, and catch up. With seasonal produce, one-of-a-kind finds, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a market designed to be enjoyed - and it’s proudly dogfriendly too. The next market will be held on Friday 3 January, from 8am to 2pm, at Red Hill Recreation Reserve, 184 Arthurs Seat Road, Red Hill. hillandridgemarket.com.au
JEFF Carter Music, The Eagles Greatest Hits. Photo: Supplied
The Eagles greatest hits A TWO hour tribute to Americas greatest band, The Eagles. With five number-one singles, six number-one albums, six Grammy Awards and five American Music Awards. The Eagles is one of the world’s best-selling bands, having sold more than 200 million records worldwide. You’ll be entertained with iconic hits such as Take It To The Limit, Desperado, Lyin Eyes, Hotel California and many more. The Eagles Greatest Hits is compiled together with some of Australia most experienced live musicians with each having over 30 years
performing live. Lead and main singers Mark Hammond, formally from The Ultimate Eagles Experience and the Electric Light Orchestra and David Thompson who has over 30 years performing as Glen Frey around the World. They are joined by Mick Martin, Jeff Carter Jnr, Mark Willams and Peter Ferguson. Performing at Frankston Arts centre on Saturday Janusary 21 at 7.30pm, this will be an experience you do not want to miss. Tickets can be purchased at thefac.com.au or phone 9784 1060
Saturday 3 January 2026 9am - 2pm Out in the country, high on the hill, you’ll find a market where makers, growers, and artisans gather to share the bounty of the season - from fresh produce and handmade goods to vintage treasures, local art and live music by The Warrains. A gathering of good things in the heart of Red Hill. First Saturday of the Month Sept-May 6th December 3rd January 7th February
NO MARCH EVENT 4th April 2nd May
Red Hill Recreation Reserve 184 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill
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SATURDAY JANUARY 31, 7.30PM Tickets at thefac.com.au or call 9784 1060
Summer Guide 2025
Splash into summer fun at PARC these school holidays! GET ready to dive headfirst into fun at PARC these summer school holidays! With plenty of activities and entertainment for all ages, these holidays are sure to be jam-packed. Splash Island is back! Take on the tropical challenge of conquering PARC’s giant inflatable obstacle course, Splash Island Paradise. Ready for adventurers, big and small, slip, slide and splash your way through a day of family fun, tiptoeing across balance beams, and sliding down its slippery slopes. Booking Splash Island Date: 30-minute sessions on weekdays, starting Monday 5 January – Friday 23 January. Time: Weekdays: 11:00am – 3:00pm (last session 2:30pm) Cost: $6.50 per person (in addition to your usual pool entry) Bookings: Bookings are essential and open 3 days prior to each session. You can book via the Peninsula Leisure Xplor app or PARC’s Customer Portal. School holiday fun at PARC After conquering Splash Island, the excitement continues with a host of fun activities and attractions at PARC. There’s something for everyone, from thrilling waterslides to creative out-of-water entertainment! Aquatic Playground Kids of all ages will love PARC’s Aquatic Playground—a multi-level water wonderland designed for hours of interactive fun. Featuring exciting slides, jets, valves, spray nozzles, a spinning water wheel, and a giant tipping bucket, the AquaPlay™ delivers non-stop entertainment. Whether splashing through sprays or giggling under the giant bucket’s cascade, this playground is guaranteed to create unforgettable memories. Raft Waterslides Get ready for high-speed thrills on PARC’s epic raft waterslides! Grab a raft with up to four people and race through twists and turns of the Python
POOL fun at PARC. Photos: Supplied
Waterslide, enhanced by dazzling sound and light effects. This thrilling ride finishes with a splash, leaving you breathless and eager for more. Or take on the 114-metre-long Constrictor waterslide, a single or double-raft experience like no other. Feel the rush as you navigate tight spirals, high-banking turns, and a flume that narrows and expands, living up to its “Constrictor” name. Toddler Pool For the littlest adventurers, PARC offers a dedicated toddler pool and splash area. With its
shallow, beach-style entry, gentle sprays, and bubbles, this space provides a safe and enjoyable environment for young children to explore and build confidence in the water. Out-of-Water Entertainment The fun doesn’t stop when you step out of the pool! PARC’s holiday program includes fun out of water activities including a Centre scavenger hunt, balloon entertainment and face painting. The dates and details PARC’s school holiday program will run from Monday 5 January – Friday 23 January. PARC’s
inflatable obstacle course, Splash Island, will run weekdays between 11am –3pm. Other outof-water activities change daily, so be sure to check out their school holiday calendar on their website for dates and times of all their pool side entertainment. Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre 16N Cranbourne Rd, Frankston Ph: (03) 9781 8448 www.parc.peninsulaleisure.com.au Facebook: parcfrankston Instagram: parcfrankston
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Summer Guide 2025
Big summer of love at Ashcombe Maze
Thursday & Friday Twilight Sessions Ashcombe Maze opens later on summer Thursday and Friday nights for relaxed, familyfriendly evenings. Take your time exploring the Maze at dusk, savour dinner from rotating food trucks, and enjoy local wines as you unwind in the gardens. It’s the perfect way to make holiday dinners easy, a gentle, no-fuss end to the week in the warm twilight glow. “Coastal Botanicals” Sip & Paint with Cath De Boise Join renowned local landscape artist Cath De Boise, whose expressive brushwork and love of the Peninsula’s coastal beauty shape her warm, intuitive teaching style. Begin your evening with a leisurely wander through the Maze before settling into the café’s glass atrium, a bright, relaxed space where Cath will guide you through a botanical-inspired painting journey, drawing on the stems, textures and colours found in our region.
Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling on arrival, with beautiful wines by Kerry Greens available to purchase throughout the evening, as colour, conversation and creativity take centre stage. It’s the perfect mid-summer night out complete with your own take-home artwork. Thursday 8th & Thursday 15th Jan 3-5.00pm. Cost $65 per person, including all materials. Limited numbers, bookings essential. Yoga on the Lawn with Lou Kenny Stretch, breathe and melt into the morning with Yoga on the Lawn with Lou Kenny. Lou brings her signature blend of flow, feel-good movement and a little bit of magic, the kind that tunes your body like an instrument warming up before a great set. 8.30am - Friday Jan 2nd, Saturday Jan 3rd, Friday Jan 9th & Saturday Jan 10th. $20 per session - pre booking essential BYO Mat
Midsummer Garden Soirée - Sunday 28 December Slip into the heart of summer with a romantic afternoon in the gardens. Soft light, gentle whimsy and relaxed lawn moments set the tone as you enjoy our signature spritz, local beers and beautiful seasonal refreshments. A dreamy midsummer celebration made for lingering. End of Summer Fiesta - Sunday 25 January Enjoy a lively end-of-summer celebration in the gardens with delicious food, refreshing spritzers, local beers and live music. Stretch out on the lawn, take in the colour and warmth of late summer and help us farewell the season in relaxed style Magic Makers Tent Step into the Magic Makers Tent, where creativity changes with the wind and wonder waits around every corner. One day you might craft a wand or paint a cheeky gnome, the next,
15 SHOREHAM ROAD, SHOREHAM • ASHCOMBEMAZE.COM.AU • 5989 8387 PAGE T
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who knows what magical creation will appear? Every visit brings something new to make, imagine and take home. Check out socials for dates. Saturday 3rd + Saturday 17th Specially curated events hosted by food writer Richard Cornish. With immersive tasting experiences and a progressive Oyster tasting through the maze and gardens, these events offer a deeper, more delicious journey for visitors. Bookings essential. Cymatic Harmony - Saturday 10 January Cymatic Harmony invites you into a revitalising blend of sound healing, sauna warmth, and ice-bath immersion, creating a holistic wellness experience that deepens relaxation, builds resilience, and reconnects you with your inner balance in the Arboretum. 3pm-8pm, Bookings essential. Plus lots more - check website and socials for updates and ticket info.
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Silvers Circus celebrates 50 years IN January 2026, something extraordinary is rolling onto the Mornington Peninsula.Silvers Circus, one of Australia’s most iconic and longest running circuses, is celebrating an incredible milestone: 50 years of setting the standard, bringing wonder and wow to adults and children alike, and being Australia’s Greatest Circus! And there’s no better way to mark this golden anniversary than under the air-cooled comfort of our famous big top, right here in Rosebud! The 2026 season brings a production that reflects exactly why Silvers has stood tall for five decades. What can you expect this year? Well, pure amazement, as always! Feminine acrobats defying gravity and flexibility, adrenaline-driven guys who use horse power to defy logic. And Fluffy and Spike, our resident dinosaurs, are back to excite the little ones. Sparkle, spangles, magical moments and jaw dropping feats, everything and more Silvers is known for. Add all that together and you have a captivating show from start to finish. Silvers mesh the traditional with the new, honouring the classic circus magic people love while introducing fresh acts that excite today’s audiences. Whether you’re seeking a family outing, a summer holiday memory, or a night or pure wonder, Silvers Circus delivers an experience that simply can’t be replicated. And speaking
of wonder, did you know Silvers now has its very own bar? Yep, The WunderBAR! Open in the foyer before, during and after the show. A perfect complement to your experience. The Rosebud season also comes with a little extra magic in 2026. On Jan 10, Silvers will proudly host the Peninsula Film Festival under the big top for the very first time. Two power houses of entertainment, story-telling, creativity and community spirit coming together for one unforgettable night. It’s a rare opportunity to support two iconic local institutions in one place. Whether you’re a film lover or circus fan, these are two events you won’t want to miss! Because keeping audiences comfortable is a priority, we’ve planned our showtimes to dodge the summer heat and keep the experience cool from the moment you step inside. That, plus our air-cooling fans keep the temp cool and the only discomfort you’ll feel is when Mewin is flipping on The Wheel of Steel meters in the air - at speed! For a sneak peak of what to expect jump on their Instagram or Facebook. For showtimes and prices visit silverscircus.com.au. To purchase tickets, you have three options; online via Ticketmaster, call 0413 880 044, or you can always buy good seats 40 mins prior to showtime from their on-site booking office.
CRIB Point Community House Quilt and Craft Show. Photo: Supplied
Community Market & Quilt and Craft Show MARK your calendars! The much-loved Crib Point Community House Quilt and Craft Show is set to return on Saturday, March 28th, 2026; promising a colourful celebration of creativity, community, and craftsmanship. Crafters and quilters across the Mornington Peninsula are encouraged to thread their needles, dive into their fabric stashes and bring their ideas to life. Entries are now open across three communityjudged categories: Large Quilt, Small Quilt, and Craft. Entry forms are available at the Community House at 7 Park Rd, Crib Point, by calling 5983 9888, or via www.cpch.org.au. A ‘must do’ during the holidays is our January 10th and February 14th markets 9am
to 1pm. Enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere in a rural setting. With a wide range of stalls offering handmade gifts, fresh produce, plants, and treats, there’s plenty to explore. Delicious food, a coffee van, a Sausage Sizzle and traditional Devonshire Tea with homemade scones add to the day’s enjoyment, along with the ever-popular Cribby Koala Treasure Hunt. Both events highlight the creativity, spirit, and connection that make our community so vibrant. Whether you’re crafting, shopping, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, these gatherings offer something special for everyone.
CRIB POINT COMMUNITY MARKET
Crib Point Community House 7 Park Rd, Crib Point
ROSEBUD 2ND - 18TH JAN
Next Markets: Jan 10 * Feb 14 9am - 1pm A variety of stalls, fresh produce, plants, coffee van, Sausage Sizzle and Devonshire tea complete with home made scones. Don’t forget the Cribby KoalaTreasure hunt for the kids too. Inside and outside stalls available - Stall fees paid on the day Book a stall at market@cpch.org.au
anniversary
SILVERSCIRCUS.COM.AU 0413 88 00 44
Saturday 28th March 2026 Crib Point Community House 7 Park Rd, Crib Point. Victoria 10am to 4pm Admission $5. per person Children Free Quilts & Crafts by our Students and Local Quilters For more information use the QR code or Follow us on
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BRIAN MARTIN, Methexical Countryscape: Bundjalung #8 2017, Danie Mellor, An unsettled vision (the predicament) 2007-08, Mitjili Napurrula, Watiya Tjuta (many Trees) 1997, Brian Nyinawanga, Visions of the City 1993. Photo: Kinfolk Imagery
Unfolding at MPRG ABBA Thankyou for the Music. Photo: Supplied
ABBA spectacular GET ready to say, “Thank you for the Music”. A 2-hour spectacular live concert that will take you through the songs, the life and magic that made ABBA one of the most successful bands of all time. All the hits “Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Dancing Queen, Money Money, SOS, Ring Ring” and the list goes on. ABBA Thank you the Music is the must see show this year. Performed by Narelle Ryan, Michelle Bermingham and full backing band.
‘Thank you for the Music” will take you on a spectacular musical journey through the songs, the life and magic that made ABBA one of the most successful bands of all time. Hear the songs listen to the stories and most of all have the time of your life in this 2 hour show not to be missed. Performing at the Frankston Arts Centre on Friday February 20. Tickets through thefac. com.au or phone 9784 1060
UNFOLDING is a major exhibition of First Nations works on paper featuring prints, drawings and paintings on paper works from the MPRG collection. First Nations artists have used paper as a material to demonstrate a particular kind of strength and permanence – one that holds, carries and expresses identity, body and self, language, connection to Country, history and community. Curated in collaboration with Gulumerridjin (Larrakia), Wardaman, and KarraJarri artist and curator Jenna (Mayilema) Lee, Unfolding recognises the significance of paper as a powerful tool for the transfer of knowledge, stories, and contemporary artistic expression. The exhibition features more than 100 works by over 80 artists including Queenie McKenzie, Gloria Petyarre, Robert Fielding, Brian Robinson, Brian Martin, Fiona Foley,
Nici Cumpston, d harding, Danie Mellor, Teho Ropeyarn, Lisa Waup, Dominic White, Sally Morgan, and many more. The exhibition is supported by an activity space featuring the work of multidisciplinary artist Sammy Trist, a proud and passionate Taungurung woman of the Kulin Nation. Sammy will launch the activity space with an insect ochre painting workshop on Sunday 30 November. There’ll also be artist and curator talks, a long table discussion. On Friday 23 January, First Nations DJs Fosters and Pvrtal take over the decks with an electric mix of melodic afro, shuffling house, disco and techno, layered with First Nations sounds and vocal samples. This high-energy night is all about rhythm, culture and coming together.
www.mprg.mornpen.vic.gov.au
Works from the MPRG collection that celebrate paper as a powerful tool for the transfer of knowledge, stories, and contemporary artistic expression Gloria Petyarre, Untitled (Awelye) 1997 (detail), synthetic polymer paint on Indian cotton paper, Purchased from National Works on Paper, 1998, © the estate of the artist licensed by Aboriginal Artists Agency Ltd.
Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery is supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria.
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KARIN SCHAUPP. Photo: Cybele Malinowski
Peninsula Summer Music Festival LOOKING for something to do these summer holidays? There’s something for everyone, from family events, to boutique winery experiences or come and relax at Peninsula Hot Springs with exquisite music! Our Peninsula Summer Music Festival is back in January 2026, celebrating the beautiful venues with the best music from around the world. Join us to open the festival with our baroque opera gala featuring acclaimed international opera singers, Myriam Arbouz, Jacob Lawrence and David Greco, a night of virtuosic singing with our own festival orchestra! There’s something for everyone in our 2026 Festival - Melbourne funk legends ‘The Bamboos’ bring their high energy performance to Montalto where you can enjoy fine wine and delicious food as you listen to the groove of the Bamboos. Your 2026 Festival Artists are Ensemble Offspring, joining us from Sydney to present
several concerts including a world premiere performance of a new work inspired by local indigenous plantlife on the Mornington Peninsula. They are also performing multiple works by Australian composers, a chance to see the best new music being created. EO will also be performing a family show at Balnarring Civic Reserve which is free! You’ll learn about musical instruments and hear some great music performed by this amazing ensemble. If you’re new to classical music, this is a great way to introduce your family. International guitar virtuoso, Karin Schaupp performs at Port Phillip Estate where again we will be treated to multiple world premieres and maybe a guest artist or two! With so much on offer, it’s the best way to start the year, treat yourself to the Peninsula Summer Music Festival. Book now at www.peninsulafestival.com.au
CHILD exploring the canopy on the Tree Surfing courses. Photo: Supplied
Adventure in the tree tops ENCHANTED Adventure is where adventure comes to life! Experience the ultimate family fun day out amongst nature at the top of Arthurs Seat. It’s the place to be these summer school holidays. Nestled in the beautiful hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula, discover a wonderland of adventure activities designed for the whole family & all ages, both on the ground and in the treetops. Explore their wide array of General Admission activities including their epic Tube Slides, life-size brainteaser puzzles, Sky Scramble, MisAdventure Voyage, Canopy Walk & more. Lose yourself in the colours of over 20 themed gardens, marvel at the structures of hedge topiary and an impressive collection of giant sculptures or get tangled in one of their five mazes.
Tree Surfing is a must-do activity! The demand for Tree Surfing soars (quite literally!) during summer & it’s a nature adventure like no other. Climb, swing and soar through the treetops on over 50 aerial obstacles. Courses are suitable for adults and kids alike from 4 years & up. Pre-bookings for Tree Surfing are highly recommended to avoid missing out. Enchanted Adventure is a place where you can reconnect with the people you care most about and have a whole lot of fun while you’re at it. They are open every day of the summer school holidays (closed Christmas Day) from 9am to 5pm and bookings are essential to avoid disappointment. So go and discover your own adventure with them. We hope you enjoy the experience as much as we do!
PENINSULA SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL 3 - 11 JANUARY 2026
Music! Plants! Stories! Meet local plants, learn their songs and hear their stories... THURS 8 JAN 11am, Balnarring
MAZES - GARDENS TUBE SLIDES - TREE SURFING ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES view full program & book now www.peninsulafestival.com.au Mornington News
23 December 2025
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NEIL Anthony performs Meat Loaf. Photo: Tanya Strauss photography
Meat Loaf legacy kept alive FOR more than 25 years, Melbourne’s Neil Anthony has carried the torch for one of rock’s most powerful voices — Meat Loaf. With a show that blends the biggest Meat Loaf anthems and Jim Steinman’s unforgettable hits, Neil has created the longest-running professional Meat Loaf tribute in the world. This isn’t just a setlist it’s a full-scale, highenergy rock show that celebrates the passion, power, and theatricality that made Meat Loaf a legend. Audiences can expect a hit-packed journey through the music that sold over 65 million albums worldwide, including Bat Out of Hell, Paradise by the Dashboard Light, Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That), Rock & Roll Dreams Come Through. It doesn’t stop there, Neil’s show also dives into Jim Steinman’s catalogue of global hits, with songs made famous by Bonnie Tyler,
Celine Dion, Songs from the Rocky Horror Picture Show, and more. From Total Eclipse of the Heart to It’s All Coming Back to Me Now, this show is stacked with timeless classics. Neil is joined on stage with two amazing performers Stevie Renee and Shaleena Bain. Neil doesn’t just perform the songs he relives them, channelling the energy, drama, and showmanship that made Meat Loaf’s concerts legendary. Every performance is a celebration, complete with soaring vocals, powerful storytelling, and the kind of crowd connection that leaves audiences singing all the way home. “Fans don’t just hear the songs — they feel them,” says Neil. “That’s why I keep doing it. The energy of the crowd, the love for the music — it never gets old.” This is more than a tribute show; it’s an experience not to be missed. Performing at Frankston Arts Centre on Saturday Feb 7, to book phone 9784 1060.
Mornington Art Show returns JANUARY 2026 sees Mornington Rotary welcome the return of its annual Art Show to the Peninsula Community Theatre, corner Wilson Road and Nepean Highway, Mornington. Some 750 paintings, including oils, acrylics, watercolours and pastels, will be on display from Friday 16th to Saturday 24th January – including a special late-night opening on Friday 23rd until 8pm. Feature artists Billy Nye and Nina Volk, from Melbourne, will be joined by artisans presenting examples of their work, including ceramics and sculptures. Artworks from local students will also be shown. This year’s judges are renowned painter Clive Sinclair
and MPNews Group photographer Yanni. Our patron for the 2026 Art Show is once again The Bays Hospital, Mornington. The Bays Art Show Gala Opening Night is on Thursday January 15, from 7-10pm. Tickets are $50 per person and includes finger food, drinks, musical entertainment, plus the opportunity to be first to purchase fine new artwork to grace your walls. Tickets can be purchased from our website: www.morningtonartshow.com.au. The show will be open each day between 10am-5pm, and 8pm on the second Friday. Entry is $10. Works can also be viewed and bought online from our website until Monday 26th of January.
MORNINGTON PENINSULA S hi re
Mornington
ART
SHOW 16 Jan – 24 Jan 2026 Open 10am – 5pm
Gala Opening Night 15 Jan
SATURDAY 7th February @ 8pm Frankston Arts Centre Tickets at thefac.com.au or call 9784 1060 PAGE X
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PENINSULA COMMUNITY THEATRE
Cnr Nepean Hwy & Wilsons Rd, Mornington NEW - Opening Fri 23 Jan 5.00pm to 8.00pm
Summer Guide 2025
Wherever you litter it ends up here
Bin it or Bring it home! SUMMER is here and our beautiful Peninsula welcomes thousands of visitors every day. From the calm of Port Phillip Bay, the rock pools of Western Port, the cafes along the foreshore townships or the many parks and reserves – there’s something for everyone to enjoy! But every year, thousands of kilograms of litter are left on our beaches, streets, parks and waterways, including cans, bottles, takeaway food wrappers, coffee cups and cigarette butts. Now a new message is out there, Bin it or Bring it home. Encouraging everyone to do their part to
protect wildlife, habitats and the natural beauty of the area for residents and visitors alike. There are plenty of bins to pop your rubbish in, with increased collections during the summer season. And check out the new Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) baskets to recycle 10c drinks containers Bin full? If there’s a QR code, you can scan it to send a report. No QR code? Then the message is simple: Bring it home. Together, we can make the difference and enjoy summer on the Peninsula.
Litter dropped in the streets ends up in our waterways, harming wildlife and their habitats.
Want a free trip to the tip? Drop off odd items like e-waste, old tools, and textiles for free at our Resource Recovery Centres.
Bin it right. Future’s bright. mornpen.vic.gov.au/recyclingguide
Help keep our recycling clean.
Empty it. Rinse it. Recycle it. Bin it right. Future’s bright. mornpen.vic.gov.au/recyclingguide Mornington News
23 December 2025
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Summer Guide 2025 Film festival returns with a spectacular twist VICTORIA’S biggest outdoor film festival is getting a spectacular new home this summer; under the Big Top! The Peninsula Film Festival, supported by Lexus of Brighton, will transform the Silvers Circus Tent into a dazzling stage for film, fun and fanfare, combining the excitement of the circus and the creativity of cinema for one magic weekend on the Mornington Peninsula, January 9-11. The festival’s signature screenings will come alive on the Saturday, January 10, beneath the famous yellow-and-white circus stripes at Rosebud’s Village Green, with lights, laughter and plenty of stars. Audiences can expect the glitz of Hollywood meeting the thrill of the Big Top with screenings of the best short films from movie makers all over Australia. The 15th edition of the Peninsula Film Festival will open at Rosebud Cinemas on Friday, January 9, with a screening of the widely anticipated, Melbourne-made documentary Pellegrini’s, by acclaimed filmmaker Frank Lotito, followed by Brendan Young’s award-winning short film, The Widow. On Saturday night the festival’s centrepiece returns with a novel twist. For the first time in festival history, the short films will be shown inside the Silvers Circus Big Top, a stunning, Spiegel tent-inspired venue, bringing patrons elevated picture quality in a new atmosphere of intimacy and excitement. Led by the ringmaster, actor Stephen Curry, alongside a star-studded judging panel including Lachy Hulme, Jacinta Stapleton, Michala Banas, Sigrid Thornton and Frank Lotito, the 2026 Peninsula Film Festival will showcase up to 20 short films, with the top filmmaker taking home a $5,000 cash prize. Over the weekend festival-goers can enjoy films, roving performers, food trucks and wine and beer vendors, along with live music.
PENISULA Film Festival’s judging panel. Photo: Supplied
“We’re thrilled to bring the magic of film back to the Peninsula with a vibrant, reimagined program and a new home,” Steve Bastoni, Peninsula Film Festival Director, said. “Audiences can expect three incredible events celebrating storytelling, community and creativity, all delivered with that trademark
Peninsula Film Festival flair.” The festival concludes on Sunday, January 11, at The Broadway, the Peninsula’s exciting new arts hub at Rosebud. Emerging filmmakers can take part in a hands-on filmmaking workshop there, led by experienced filmmakers and industry professionals.
“This is the workshop to attend if you’re keen to meet like-minded creatives and collaborate. You will be guided through the process of creating your own short film, which now can be made on an iPhone or iPad,” Bastoni said.
Sunset sessions on the bay SOME summer nights deserve a better backdrop than the corner table at the pub. Sunset Sessions on the Bay is built for those evenings – a two-hour twilight cruise from Sorrento where the soundtrack is live acoustic music, glassware on the bar and the low murmur of people who have nowhere else they’d rather be. Departure is at 7.00pm, just as the light starts to soften along the Mornington Peninsula. Once on board, the pace drops. The lounge feels more like a coastal bar than a ferry – windows framing the shoreline as it slips past, a musician easing into their set, conversations picking up where the day left off. Outside, the deck offers the usual suspects: sea air, a changing sky and that slightly smug sense of having found a better way to watch the sun go down.
The bar is open throughout, with drinks and easy grazing options available to purchase, and a summer barbecue on the deck adds just enough theatre to feel like a proper occasion without turning into an event in itself. It’s there to anchor the atmosphere rather than dominate it. There are only two sailings – 7 and 14 January – with tickets only $35 per person. The vessel traces the coastline towards Rosebud and back, returning to Sorrento at around 9.00pm with the last of the colour still hanging over Port Phillip Bay. For anyone who prefers conversation over commotion and a horizon over a TV screen, Sunset Sessions on the Bay quietly makes the case that the best part of a summer night might be on the water. Book tickets at searoad.com.au
SUNSET SESSIONS ON THE BAY
7 & 14 JAN $35 PER PERSON DEPARTS SORRENTO 7:00PM 2 HOUR CRUISE
A RELAXED SUNSET CRUISE ALONG THE MORNINGTON PENINSULA COAST, WITH LIVE MUSIC AND A LOUNGE-STYLE VIBE.
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Mornington News
23 December 2025
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Summer Guide 2025 Get set for the 50th anniversary of the Rye Gift
Left: A blistering finish sees Alexia Loizou take out the 2025 Women’s 120m Gift. Above: The juniors celebrate a great day out. Pictures: Barry Irving
RYE’s premier sporting event, the Rye Gift will be held at R.J.Rowley Reserve, Melbourne Road, Rye on Saturday 10 January 2026. Now in its 50th year, the event is rated as the third highest ranked event for professional running on the Victorian Athletics League calendar. Foremost in success is the Pasquali family, with Wally Pasquali winning the men’s 120m Rye Gift in 1995. Then the sensational and record breaking triple winner Anna Pasquali (Nee Deery) won the Women’s 120m Rye Gift in 2003, 2004 and 2005. 2023 saw daughter Bella Pasquali win the Women’s 120M Rye Gift as a 16 year old. Bella went on to take
out the Women’s Stawell Gift in the same year. 2023 men’s 120m Rye Gift winner Nicholas Antonino also went on to place in the men’s 120m Stawell gift placing second being beaten one hundredth of a second. 2017 Women’s Rye gift Winner, Ebony Lane and 2020 Women’s 120m Rye Gift winner Bree Master represented in the Australian Athletics Team at the 2024 Paris Olympics To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Rye Gift Athletics carnival and Family Fun Day prize money for both Men’s and Women’s 120m Rye Gift events will be increased to $10,000 and the men’s and women’s 400m
events increased to $2,500. The Gift is a family-friendly day with free rides, face painting and other children’s activities, which in 2026 will include the addition of an animal petting farm for the children from 10.30am until 3.30pm. There are bookmakers on site covering horse racing and foot running. Other events include the Senior and Junior Community Club Relays, so come and cheer your local club on. There is a Rye Junior gift, under six to under 14, (boys and girls events) run under the auspices of the Southern Peninsula Little Athletics Centre conducted from 8.30am to
10am. These events are proudly sponsored by Maw Civil PL and the Rotary Club of Rosebud-Rye. A full day of running events will commence after the Rye Junior Gift races with heats commencing from 10am and finishing semis and finals from around 2.15pm. The Rye Gift proudly offers equal prize money for both men and women winners. There will be refreshments, hot food and a liquor booth available on the day. The major sponsors of this event are Maw Civil PL for the 120m Men’s Rye Gift and the Rye Hotel for the 120m Women’s Rye Gift. Other major sponsors of the day
are the Mornington Peninsula Shire and Community Bank Southern Peninsula who sponsor the Senior and Junior Community Relays. Event sponsors include Rye RSL, South Coast Medical Centre, Clarrie Jennings & Sons P/L, Jim’s Test & Tag, Wittinglsow Amusements PL, Rotary Club of Rosebud-Rye and in-kind support from Haymes Paint Place, Rosebud, Peninsula Bulk Meats, Rosebud and SOLO Resource & Recovery who all make this event possible. For further details contact the Secretary, Gary Sanford on email; gary.sanford@outlook.com or 0409 194 314
50th ANNUAL ATHLETIC CARNIVAL
RYE GIFT FAMILY FUN DAY RYE FOOTBALL GROUND
BEER TENT
FOOD STALLS
FREE
KIDS RIDES & ACTIVITIES
SATURDAY 10TH JANUARY
GATES OPEN AT 7.30AM Adults - $15 Pensioners - $8 Students - $8 Family - $25 U16 - FREE Car - $5 Program - $5
CONTACT GARY: 0409 194 314 MAW CIVIL
P/L
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Mornington News
23 December 2025
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Summer Guide 2025
Lyster Opera brings Orpheus and Eurydice to Rye Civic Hall ON Saturday 7 February 2026 at 2:00pm, Rye Civic Hall will host a rare operatic treat when Lyster Opera presents Christoph Willibald Gluck’s Orpheus and Eurydice. The performance marks a milestone for the company, which celebrates its tenth year of operation in 2026 - and its first-ever visit to the Mornington Peninsula. Founded by director Jamie Moffat, Lyster Opera was established to honour the legacy of William Saurin Lyster, the great 19th-century impresario who believed that opera should belong to everyone, not just capital cities or elite audiences. “From the beginning,” says Moffat, “our mission has been simple: to bring highquality, professional opera to communities that might otherwise miss out, and to do so at an affordable price.” “We’re absolutely delighted to be coming to Rye,” he adds. “The Mornington Peninsula is such a beautiful part of the world, and it’s enormously exciting for us to introduce Lyster Opera to a new audience in a venue like Rye Civic Hall.” The opera itself is one of the great cornerstones of the repertoire. Orpheus and Eurydice tells the timeless legend that continues to inspire artists today, most recently in the hit musical Hadestown. Orpheus is shattered by the death of his wife, Eurydice. Moved by his grief, the goddess of love offers him an extraordinary chance: to descend into the Underworld and bring Eurydice back to life. But there is a terrible condition - he must not look at her until they have returned to the land of the living, or he will lose her forever. Along the way, Orpheus confronts the Furies of Hell and encounters the serene Blessed Spirits, in music that is by turns dramatic, tender and transcendent. “This is the most famous and influential operatic telling of the Orpheus myth,” says Moffat. “Gluck wrote it in 1762, and it has never left the stage since.” Lyster Opera will perform Gluck’s 1774 Paris revision, sung in French with English translation. “It’s a more lyrical and sensuous version of the score,” Moffat explains.
“We chose it because it’s extraordinarily beautiful, and we’re indebted to Clear Music and Bärenreiter in Germany for making this comparatively rarely performed version available to us.” The title role is sung by South Australian tenor Hew Wagner, an artist widely praised for both vocal beauty and compelling stagecraft. “Hew is a phenomenal singing actor,” says Moffat. “Audiences will remember him from Lyster productions as the comic Ernesto in Don Pasquale and the terrifyingly unhinged Nero in The Coronation of Poppea. Orpheus is a dream role for any tenor, and Hew jumped at the chance.” Returning as Eurydice and Amour are sopranos Sarah Jane Pattichis and Helen Koehne, both acclaimed during Lyster Opera’s recent tour of Mozart’s The Abduction from the Seraglio. A chorus of nine singers takes on the dual roles of the fearsome Furies and the ethereal Blessed Spirits. For Moffat, the challenge is clear. “You have to make Orpheus and Eurydice work for seasoned opera lovers and people seeing opera for the first time,” he says. “The answer is always in the music. It’s deeply romantic and intensely human. There’s no need for gimmicks — if you trust the score and the story, it’s incredibly moving.” Visually, the production is brought to life by Blair Parkinson’s striking set designs, with costumes by Maddy Connellan, “always a highlight of our productions,” says Moffat. Pamela Christie, renowned for her work with Opera Australia and many other companies, conducts a chamber orchestra from the keyboard, keeping the performance intimate and immediate. One performance only: Rye Civic Hall Saturday 7 February 2026, 2:00pm Tickets: $45 General Admission $40 Concession $30 Child (16 and under) Book at lysteropera.com.au or call 0410 890 388.
Sarah Jane Pattichis
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Mornington News
23 December 2025
Hew Wagner
Helen Koehne
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Mornington News
23 December 2025