THE mental health professionals at Peninsula Health were recognised for their efforts at the 2025 Victorian Public Healthcare Awards. Peninsula Health was named the winner in the “Excellence in Mental Health and Wellbeing” category. The health provider’s elimination of seclusion and mechanical restraints in its inpatient services was a key reason behind its award win. Peninsula Health’s clinical director of mental health and wellbeing, Adjunct A/Prof Kerryn Rubin, said Peninsula Health is the only health provider in the state which has completely eliminated the use of seclusion. “While it was once seen as a way to keep people safe, seclusion…
Author: BaysideNews
IN the wake of two tragic deaths at Frankston Beach, more ratepayer money will be spent on water safety this summer. Frankston Council has announced it will spend $75,000 on the Can Swim program, which offers free beach-based swimming lessons. The all-ages program runs across Frankston Beach, Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre, and the Pines Forest Aquatic Centre. An additional $20,000 for lifesavers and beach patrol volunteers has also been committed by council. The money is expected to be shared between Frankston Lifesaving Club, Seaford Lifesaving Club, and the 3199 and 3198 Beach Patrol groups. Seaford Lifesaving Club president Darren McLeod…
THE Committee for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula has announced that Phil Hayes-Brown and Ross Kilborn are the recipients of the committee’s first Annual Leadership Award. The awards were presented on 3 December at the committee’s Annual General Meeting. The head of disability support organisation Wallara, CEO Phil Hayes-Brown’s, recognition came during an important week for the disability community, coinciding with the International Day of People with Disability, which promotes awareness, understanding and acceptance. “I’m honoured by this recognition, but it belongs to the Wallara team and our partners across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula,” Hayes-Brown said. “It’s proof that inclusive…
THE $2.1 million redeveloped Frankston Arts Centre forecourt was officially opened last week. The forecourt now features upgraded pathways and ramps, separate areas for cars and pedestrians with marked drop-off and pick-up zones, enhanced lighting, additional seating, a new water feature, and larger street-facing signage. Alongside the new forecourt, the mezzanine gallery of the dress circle was also renamed the “Gale Dudeck Lounge” last month. Gail Dudeck was among the leading voices in the campaign to build the Frankston Arts Centre – her granddaughter Amy Dudeck said “seeing the forecourt transformed alongside the dedication of the Gail Dudeck Lounge is…
A SWATHE of accessibility measures were installed at Frankston Beach last week. Last Friday, 5 December, 70 metres of beach matting extending to the water’s edge was put into place. Complimentary beach wheelchairs and equipment, daybeds, and cabanas were also installed. Trained staff and volunteers have also been placed onsite for the summer. The pilot program, which is set to cost around $200,000, has been supported by multiple local donors. Accessible Beaches Australia has spearheaded the project – the proposal was inspired by a similar accessible beach in Nice, France. Accessible Beaches Australia founder Shane Hryhorec said if successful, the…