News
Council wish list
Feb 18, 2026 - The Wonthaggi pool and old high school site, a new sports precinct in Phillip Island, protection of the Western Port Woodlands and coastal erosion top the council’s new advocacy list. 
Farmers win in rates shake-up
Feb 18, 2026 - Council cuts farm rates and lifts vacant land charges. Park upgrade approved despite tree loss
Feb 19, 2026 - Councillors say they have no power to stop the felling of 44 mature trees as part of a major redevelopment of a Phillip Island holiday park. 
Inverloch path back on track
Feb 18, 2026 – Long-awaited path closer as council moves to make a section of Surf Parade one way. 
New nurses join the team
Feb 16, 2026 - Twelve graduates start their careers at Wonthaggi Hospital and San Remo District Nursing. 
Green targets the youth vote
Feb 17, 2026 - Sophie Thorn, a 34-year-old youth mental health worker, has been selected as the Greens candidate for Bass in the November state election. Viewpoint
Here we go again
Feb 18, 2026 - Revelations of massive corruption in Melbourne’s Big Build come as no surprise to Mark Robertson, who says it started during construction of the Wonthaggi desalination plant. 
I’m not racist but …
Feb 15, 2026 - Recent events remind Blue Barlow that most racists think they’re just being reasonable. 
A cook’s journal
Feb 16, 2026 - When the nectarines re falling faster than you can eat them, it's time for a sumptuous slice. By Liane Arno |
Feature stories
Meeting Itsuku
Feb 17, 2026 - A newborn baby brings joy and healing to Etsuko Yasunaga’s family. 
The long view from Hurricane Hill
Feb 19, 2026 - How Bob Davie reshaped farming and community life on Phillip Island. By Catherine Watson 
Playing close to home
Feb 16, 2026 - Bass Coast’s young musos are ready – and you might want to listen, writes Anabelle Bremner 
The unforgettable Laurie Chizzoniti
Feb 16, 2026 – The genial fruiterer lifted the belligerent drunk and gently danced him out of the pub. Bruce Phillips tells the tale of one of nature’s gentlemen. 
Warrior woman
Feb 17, 2026 - There was nothing in Phyllis Papps’ mild demeanour to suggest the courageous feminist who faced down homophobia and discrimination, writes Jan Bourne. 
How we Learn English
Feb 18, 2026 - In a speedy world, slow learning gives students a chance to go much deeper, writes Daryl Pellizzer Local history
From Italy to Wonthaggi
Feb 16, 2026 - By the mid 1930s a thriving Italian community of around 800 people was living in the district, writes Linda Cuttriss. Environment
Welcome, stranger
Feb 16, 2026 - Spotted on Reef Island, the Eastern Yellow Wagtail is a long way from home, writes Dave Newman. 
Eco made easy
Feb 16, 2026 - Caring for the environment is a serious business but there’s room for a little fun as well at the Bass Coast Sustainability Festival. 
Love your work
Feb 16, 2026 - Glenn Arnold talks to Cathie Agg about his beloved Inverloch beach and the people who make a surf lifesaving club. Listen online. Community diary
What's on and where |
Features
The final curtain
Jan 16, 2026 - Gill Heal has left the theatre but a touch of magic remains. By Catherine Watson Viewpoint
Lost in Bunnings
Jan 15, 2026 - All Liane Arno wanted was a garden tap, and she got a reminder of why our snap judgements are so often wrong. 
Waiting for the shot
Jan 15, 2026 - Dyonn Dimmock timed her visit to Twin Reefs to capture the turning of the tide. 
I had a dream
Jan 14, 2026 - Matt Stone delves into the mysterious world on the other side of sleep. Environment
A touch of home
Jan 15, 2026 - The Victorian Acclimatisation Society worked hard to introduce a host of plants and animals that would be useful to new settlers. By Anne Paul 
Community diary
What's on and where |
Arts
So real you can almost smell them
Jan 16, 2026 - Jam Jerrup fibre artist Jennie-maree Tempest is forging a growing reputation with her extraordinary botanical works. 
Where words grow wild
Jan 15, 2026 - Normally quietly spoken, poet Kathy Wiltshire finds her voice on stage. Local history
Annual vigil continues to grow
Jan 15, 2026 - This year’s commemoration of the hanging of two Aboriginal men in Melbourne in 1842 has added significance. 
A cook’s journal
Jan 14, 2026 - Liane Arno offers a delicious fresh take on the apple tarte tatin during a bumper year for stone fruit. |
News
$12.7m social housing project unveiled
Dec 12, 2025 - The State Government will fast track a 30-unit social housing development on the edge of the Wonthaggi CBD. 
Beach works take shape
Dec 11, 2025 - Contractors are working against the clock to extend the sandbag wall on the Inverloch foreshore before the start of the holidays. Fossil-free is small change
Dec 11, 2025 - Despite the outrage, council’s ‘woke’ investment policy cost just 0.03%. Features
Just mucking around
Dec 9, 2025 - Retirement and the freedom of her own patch of earth combined at just the right moment for Barbara McNulty. 
Are we there yet?
Dec 9, 2025 - No gears, no lycra – kids’ epic ride to Inverloch amazes six decades on. 
Keep your koel, ed
Dec 12, 2025 - A noisy intruder sparks Matt Stone’s musings on a word with many tangents. Viewpoint
An MP's diary
Dec 15, 2025 - Monash federal MP Mary Aldred looks back on her first six months in the job. 
MICROSOFT™ versus me
Dec 14, 2025 - Catherine Watson just wanted a functioning computer. Microsoft had bigger plans. Arts
The summer canvas
Dec 11, 2025 - As 50 artists descended on Berninneit Art Gallery carrying around 130 artworks it was bedlam … and curator Warren Nichols loved it. 
The back story
Dec 13, 2025 - Will the author get lost? Will the punters come? Will they enjoy the talk? Organising an author talk can be fraught, writes Julie Statkus 
End of the journey
A year of hard work for EAL students ended with a joyous party. Words by Daryl Pellizzer. Photostory by Laura Brearley Community diary
What's on and where |
Environment
Return of the wild
Dec 3, 2025 - Trees and animals are returning to a windswept coastal patch near Wonthaggi that was grazed for decades. 
Eye to eye
Dec 5, 2025 - Andrew Keir's birds look straight down the barrel of the lens as if they’re letting him into their world. 
The gardener’s friend
Dec 12, 2025 - Gayle Marien welcomes the return of the not-so-humble hover fly. 
Rhyll leads the charge
Dec 13, 2025 - Up to 60 Rhyll households will have their electric hot water systems switched to daytime operation to sop us excess solar power. 
A nose for trouble
Dec 4, 2025 - Dogs and humans alike are being trained to keep Phillip Island fox-free. 
Who’s in charge of tidal matters?
Dec 10, 2025 - The two major parties show little interest in helping Victorian communities adapt to coastal erosion, writes Neil Daly. Local history
Kernot Bridge: the vital link
Dec 12, 2025 - Current closure is latest chapter in a century of collapses, repairs and community perseverance, writes Rob Parsons. 
Sun, surf … and a dash of history
Dec 11, 2025 - Wonthaggi Historical Society’s mini history talks have become a highlight of the Bass Coast summer. 
Happy 200th Birthday, Baron von Mueller
Dec 10, 2025 - Reminders of the renowned botanist abound on Phillip and Churchill Islands, writes Christine Grayden 
Lost and found
Dec 10, 2025 - Despite the peaceful beauty of the Phillip Island Cemetery, finding a loved one’s resting place was a challenge, writes Pamela Rothfield. 
A cook’s journal
Dec 12, 2025 - When you’ve done everything else with your bread beans, think falafels, Egyptian style. By Liane Arno |
Bass Coast Post, November, 2025
News
Kernot bridge works funded
The Kernot bridge is set for a $2.2 million upgrade, with the Federal Government today confirming $1.7 million in funding for the project. 
It’s good night, BURT
Most council strategies are entirely un-noticed by the community. BURT was different. It raised hackles before, during and after its short life. 
Pommytown residents celebrate
Nov 19, 2025 - Wonthaggi earthmoving business fails to gain retrospective approval for a depot in a rural residential zone. 
Mayoral team back in business
Nove 19, 2025 - Bass Coast Mayor Rochelle Halstead declared herself ready for action after being re-elected unanimously at today’s council meeting. 
Sandbag works to start
Nov 18, 2025 - Council to begin emergency repair works on sandbag wall near Inverloch Surf Lifesaving Club. 
Buckingham back for round two
Nov 10, 2025 - Labor confirms its first candidate as the battle begins for Victoria’s most marginal seat. 
Here’s to you, Comrade
Nov 12, 2025 - Fifty years since the Dismissal, a gathering of the faithful started as a wake and turned into a celebration. 
Irreconcilable differences
Nov 11, 2025 - Catherine Watson digs deep looking for the seeds of the Great Wonthaggi Garden War of 2025. 
Picnic with a purpose
Nov 12, 2025 - Tired of waiting for action on the Wonthaggi high school site, locals are planning a subversive action. Local history
From the Old Country to Wonthaggi
Nov 9, 2025 - Thousands of people crossed the oceans to work in the State Coal Mine at Wonthaggi. One of them was Linda Cuttriss’s grandfather. 
A cook’s journal
Now 12, 2025 - While the coriander's in season, do yourself a favour and try some pani puri, writes Liane Arno Community diary
What's on and where |
Environment
Two parts science, one part magic
Nov 8, 2025 - With a scientist’s mind and a gardener’s heart, Miriam Ford is turning a modest Wonthaggi block into a showpiece of Australian plants. 
Call of the wild
Nov 13, 2025 – Long days, sleepless nights and endless dedication … Julie Paterson meets the team behind Bunurong Wildlife Care. 
Penguin secrets of success
Nov 10, 2025 - Just like humans, penguin chicks that get a good start tend to prosper in later life. 
The happy snapper
Nov 9, 2025 - Dyonn Dimmock photographs the natural beauty of Bass Coast and the passionate, dedicated, resilient and committed people who live here. Features
Life, luck and long journeys
Nov 11, 2025 - Laura Brearley is still dancing, still singing, still marvelling at the journey with friends old and new. 
After we are gone
Nov 10, 2025 - Somewhere between joy and silence, Etsuko Yasunaga catches a glimpse of eternity. 
Stories of home
Nov 10, 2025 - When Win Kyi thinks of growing up in Myanmar, he recalls the bamboo house he built with his father. Story by Daryl Pellizzer 
The class of `76
Nov 10, 2025 - Meeting old school mates after a 50-year gap prompts some profound questions for Geoff Ellis. 
All in a day’s work
Nov 9, 2025 - Sick of the daily grind? Then get a job that aligns with your personal values, advises local podcaster Cathie Agg. Arts
Into the music
Nov 8, 2025 - After the long quiet of lockdown, Anne Olsen found her voice again in singing with others. 
Millowl comes alive
Nov 12, 2025 - Vegas Fitzmaurice turned to nature for a moving artistic tribute to his late mother. |
Bass Coast Post, October, 2025
News
Grand pool plan sinks
Oct 16, 2025 - Council dumps $180m two-pool plan; we’ll patch up our old one instead. 
Chilled not high
Oct 15, 2025 - Like a round of Chinese whispers, the rumours grew wilder with every retelling until Ventnor was in uproar. 
Back to the coalface
Oct 13, 2025 - Parks Victoria’s new boss reassures Friends of the State Coal Mine that the skip will roll again. 
Thumbs down for Lord’s Prayer
Oct 10, 2025 - A petition to reinstate the Lord’s Prayer before council meetings got short shrift from councillors. Viewpoint
The one that got away
Oct 16, 2025 - The State Government missed its chance to buy the old Holden Proving Ground. Now we have to hope a Chinese car company will do the right thing, writes Neil Rankine. 
An MP’s diary
Oct 17, 2025 - The first of a regular column in which the Member for Monash offers a glimpse behind the scenes of life in Canberra and her travels across the electorate. Environment
Holding back the tide
Oct 14, 2025 - Neil Daly asks whether it’s time to let nature prevail at Queensferry. 
Don’t go into the woods without it!
Oct 16, 2025 - When the pandemic clipped their wings, Jackie and Dave Newman turned their lenses closer to home. The result is on show in Birds of the Western Port Woodlands. Local history
The mystery remains
Oct 16, 2025 - In 1917, a huge skeleton found in sand dunes near Tarwin Lower caused great astonishment among the locals. |
The grevillea whisperer
Oct 14, 2025 - In a sea of concrete, lawn and yucca trees, David Binch has created a sanctuary for birds, bees and humans. 
A gentle hand
Oct 15, 2025 - Everyone remembers Vic Benetti’s smile. That and the Tuscan villa he built in Wonthaggi as a young bachelor. 
The business end of living
Oct 14, 2025 - When it comes to death, most of us procrastinate … we’ll think about it next week. Wonthaggi U3A decided it was time to open up the conversation. 
A view from the other side
Oct 16, 2025 - A brief overseas holiday proves a tonic for farmers, writes Rob Parsons. Arts
The art of dishwashing
Oct 14, 2025 - When Inverloch artist John Mutsaers couldn’t paint, he found a new way to make sense of life. 
Fleeting moments
Oct 16, 2025 - Kate Muir’s and Tessa Hubble’s contrasting styles and techniques open different windows on the passage of time in their joint exhibition. 
Ms Vale is still waiting
Oct 9, 2025 - Two masters of their craft combine as Maggie Millar reads Elizabeth Jolley. Painting with purpose
Oct 15, 2025 - Mix art, nature and community and you get the Landcare Art Prize, writes Janice Orchard. 
Kelp and the Sentient Sea
Oct 9, 2025 - Two artists dive deep into the beauty, mystery and power of the Southern Ocean. Community diary
What's on and where |
Bass Coast Post, September 17, 2025
News
Unpopular tourism plan under review
Sept 17, 2025 - Councillors call for rethink of controversial rural tourism strategy “that pleases no one”. 
Ventnor trees get the chop, at a price
Sept 18, 2025 - Council permits removal but orders replanting on bare block. 
Local voices ‘ignored’ in subdivision vote
Sept 18, 2025 - Wonthaggi doesn’t rate in councillors’ concerns about the environment, according to objectors to a nine-lot subdivision. 
Full speed ahead
Sept 10, 2025 - Bass Coast recognised on national stage for recycling roads. 
Health merger approved
Aug 29, 2025 - Bayside Health promises Bass Coast more specialist services, closer to home. Viewpoint
Call that democracy!
Sept 16, 2025 - Frank Schooneveldt asks why our councillors can't talk to us. 
Don’t lock us out
Sept 18, 2025 - Social media can mean community, learning and even survival, writes Oliver Jobe. Environment
Tricks of the trade
Sept 16, 2025 - How a charming visitor with a sweet song cons the guileless locals. By Gayle Marien 
Nature Notes
Sept 18, 2025 - Cockatoo lovers, possum squatters and mysterious flies … it must be spring. 
Rabbits in the spotlight
Sept 17 2025 - Councillors call for urgent action on feral animals across the shire. 
Community spirit blossoms at Coronet Bay
Sept 3, 2025 - The threat of wild weather didn’t deter locals greening the foreshore. 
Community diary
What's on and where |
At your service
Sept 10, 2025 - Deb Garvey starts work at 4.30 am and closes when she runs out of patients. The Post asks what drives the sole medical practitioner in the Waterline community. 
Seventy years of smash and spin
Sept 16, 2025 - Julie Paterson investigates how Wonthaggi’s table tennis club has stood the test of time. 
So, where to start?
Sept 16, 2025 - Is so the new like? The question sent Matt Stone reaching for the dictionary. Local history
Rescuing the rescue station
Aug 14, 2025 - The State Coal Mine rescue station was going the same way as Number 5 mine brace … until a determined crew stepped up. By Carolyn Landon Arts
Maths makes history
Sept 10, 2025 - Wonthaggi author Robyn Arianrhod defied her own expectations to win a major history award with a book about maths. 
We have been singing …
Sept 18, 2025 - EAL students and community lifted their voices in a joyful act of connection, writes Daryl Pellizzer 
My brush with art
Sept 18, 2025 - Catherine Watson fails to draw a tree and has a good time anyway. 
Reflections of a life
Sept 18, 2025 - Marcia Rolfs’ first book is an exquisite collection of her poetry, paintings and photographs. 
The singer not the song
Sept 16, 2025 – In an age when machines can conjure up bands and ballads in seconds, live music is real, writes Alison Chapman. 
A cook’s journal
Sept 16, 2025 - The lime tree’s loaded and Matt Stone’s challenge was to use them for something more than a gin and tonic. Sept 9, 2025 - Annette Stewart was among a group of keen night-time photographers who gathered at Pyramid Rock to watch the total lunar eclipse.
|
Bass Coast Post, August 17, 2025
No fixed address
Aug 14, 2025 - At 83, Beth Banks is part of a grassroots fight for dignity, security and a place to call home in Bass Coast. 
Hands off our bridge
Aug 16, 2025 - The Kilcunda trestle bridge might not be grand, but it’s our history, writes Maxine Wright. 
Pedestrians first for Cowes
Aug 20, 2025 - $8.5m makeover to make “streets for the people” rather than cars. 
The long road to a rare diagnosis
Aug 17, 2025 - For years Liane Arno explained away her headaches, joint pain and skeletal changes. Only a chance encounter with a specialist revealed the truth. 
The scroll stops here
Aug 19, 2025 - Anabelle Bremner asks whether Australia’s social media for under-16s will do more harm than good. 
Council wishlist on the table
Aug 20, 2025 Financial plan commits to a decade of major infrastructure projects that will shape Bass Coast’s future. 
Shelter opens its doors
Aug 19, 2025 - It’s been a rocky road to get there but the Bass Coast Winter Shelter is finally open and offering homeless people a warm place to stay. 
A treat for council watchers
Council aficionados have plenty of good reading ahead of them with the release of eight draft council plans. 
Nature to the rescue
Aug 16, 2025 - A landmark project will use mangroves, saltmarsh and seagrass as the first line of defence against climate change in Western Port. 
Gaza is our issue too
Aug 17, 2025 - Local councils have a role to play in ending the war in Gaza, argues Oliver Jobe. 
And now for some light relief
Aug 16, 2025 - This year marks the centenary of quantum mechanics. The Post asked local science writer and mathematician Robyn Arianrhod to “please explain” a theory that perplexed even Einstein. |
Stanley McGeagh: A life in many acts
Aug 13, 2025 - The Irish-Australian actor died on August 5, leaving behind a Coronet Bay community that had claimed him as one of its own. 
From tent town to model town
Aug 18, 2025 - Wonthaggi arrived much later than most of the towns around Bass Coast, but it grow at breakneck speed. By Linda Cuttriss 
Delivered by hand
Aug 16, 2025 - From Airlie Beach to Bushy Park, a painted rock was Etsuko Yasunaga’s passport to parkrun camaraderie across continents. 
Play it on the porch
Aug 13, 2025 - What if, just for one day, the world stopped and we all listened to the music? By Michael Whelan 
Calling citizen scientists
Aug 20, 2025 - If you go down to the woods today … take your phone because you never know what you’ll see. 
All you need is music?
Aug 19, 2025 - Music’s so easy these days, at least for the fans. But what about the musicians, asks Alison Vincent. 
Thereby hangs a tale
Aug 16, 2025 - Tears, laughter, resilience and recipes … the Festival of Stories had it all. By Julie Statkus 
Lighten up,
you guys Aug 20, 2025 - Keyboard warrior Paul Cross wants to know why greenies can’t take a joke. By Catherine Watson 
A cook’s journal
Aug 17, 2025 - Beer braised beef cheeks on mash with a glass or two of good red is Liane Arno’s perfect winter warmer. |
Bass Coast Post, July 22, 2025
Slogans won’t save our beach
July 2025 - Trevor Forge makes the case for listening to the experts on Inverloch beach. 
Winding down?
July 22, 2025 - Wonthaggi’s windmills are approaching their use-by date. By Catherine Watson 
The power trip speeds up
July 19, 2025 - Is it finally time to install a home battery? Energy guru Werner Theinert does the sums so you don’t have to. 
The Nobbies jinx
July 23, 2025 - The recent closure of the Nobbies Centre is the latest twist in a saga that includes mini-tornados and multi-million-dollar court battles. 
Summerland: the next chapter
July 23, 2025 - Nature Parks wants our help to shape ‘bold new vision’ for iconic Summerland Peninsula 
Time's up for Kilcunda bridge
July 18, 2025 - Too late to save this piece of history, councillors decide 
Sounds and silence
July 21, 2025 - A powerful new work from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra comes to Wonthaggi before its Melbourne debut. |
What’s your story?
July 22, 2025 - We want to hear it! The Post is looking for contributors – writers, photographers, storytellers of all kinds. 
The storm inside
July 22, 2025 - Chris Pitman’s acclaimed one-man play opens the door to difficult conversations, writes Tim O’Brien 
Reef Island and the shifting line
July 22. 2025 - After years of watching this shift-shaper from afar, Linda Cuttriss sets out for a closer look. 
The Birdman of Cape Paterson
July 23, 2025 - With his camera and a talent for storytelling, David Hartney captures the daily dramas of birds, beasts and humans. 
Roadkill Island
July 17, 2025 - Stop the slaughter! By Wallaby Wal, as told to Ron Day. 
A cook's journal
July 23, 2025 - Who said a low-fibre diet can’t be fun? Not Liane Arno Community diary
What's on and where |
Bass Coast Post, June 27, 2025
Planning rules trump local voices
June 23, 2025 - Councillors say they are powerless to stop infill development that flouts neighbourhood character. 
Budget adopted – with reservations
June 20, 2025 - Bass Coast Council’s 2025-26 annual budget has been formally adopted, despite several councillors expressing dissatisfaction with where the money is being spent. 
‘Do your own dirty work!’
June 19, 2025 - Councillors maintain the rage against State Government levy that will drag an extra $5 million out of Bass Coast ratepayers 
Laundry on wheels
June 27, 2025 - A mobile laundry is the latest support service aimed at helping homeless people across Bass Coast. 
More power to you, Oliver
June 25, 2025 - When federal leaders keep detonating carbon bombs, our kids have every right to be angry, writes Michael Whelan. 
Can you hear it?
June 25, 2025 - Time for more of our politicians to get out of Spring Street and spend some time ‘down on the farm’, writes Neil Daly. 
The last laugh
June 26, 2025 - Ten strangers walk into a café to talk about death and leave two hours later feeling strangely cheerful. By Catherine Watson 
Ricko relishes third chance at life
After cheating death twice in the past 12 months, Wonthaggi’s Ian Rixon attributes his third chance at life to his “angels” at Bass Coast Health. |
A photo journal
June 27, 2025 - Julie Paterson continues her voyage of discovery across Bass Coast. 
Lost in the dream
June 26, 2025 - In his 90th year John Adam is still learning, one canvas at a time. 
BYO banjos & beanies
June 23, 2025 - Wonthaggi’s midwinter music festival is back – good tunes, hot drinks and warm vibes all weekend long. 
Big stories and
bold strokes June 26, 2025 - Basins, Oxides, Locals, Legend dives into life across the hills — raw, rich, and unmistakably Phil Henshall. 
Pennies, petticoats and power
June 26, 2025 - Picture this: how would you honour a group of trail blazing women who stepped up in Wonthaggi’s hour of need? 
The art of resistance
June 25, 2025 - A new exhibition of works from the Robert Smith collection reminds us that the fight for justice goes on. 
Shrooms, booms and a touch of magic
June 25, 2025 - The hipsters appear each winter, like migratory birds from north of the Yarra. By Catherine Watson 
A cook’s journal
June 26, 2025 - Delicious and simple … but there a few little tricks to making this potato dish. |
Bass Coast Post, June 7, 2025
The Cape stops here
June 7, 2025 - How a community fought a 20-year battle to preserve their village. 
Now for Wonthaggi
June 9, 2025 - With the release of the long-awaited Bass Coast Statement of Planning Policy, 27 of the shire’s 29 settlements now have planning certainty. 
It’s official. The Western Port Woodlands matter.
June 8, 2025 - The government has finally recognised their value. Now to turn recognition into protection. By Catherine Watson 
Rest in peace, but stay in line
June 7, 2025 - There’s a new corporate vibe at Wonthaggi cemetery since Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust took it over. 
Pantry on wheels
June 7, 2025 - Carole and Bec never thought they would see people who can’t afford food in a First World country like Australia. 
Let’s talk some more
June 8, 2025 - The Teal movement missed out in the Monash electorate, writes Robert Durkacz, but a community approach to politics is worth pursuing. 
Shelter on hold
June 7, 2025 - A warm welcome awaits those who will use Bass Coast’s winter shelter for homeless people but they’ll have to be patient a while longer. |
Touched by the light
June 7, 2025 - Warren Nichols never dreamed that one of his paintings would hang alongside original works by Turner. By Catherine Watson 
For better or worse
June 7, 2025 - Blindsided but undefeated, Matt looks forward to the next chapter in his book of spills. By Liane Arno. 
From shields to surfboards
June 8, 2025 - Artist Steve Ulula Parker’s call to country … for all of us. 
Crays, muttonfish and gars with tails like pick-axes
June 7, 2025 - Fishing yarns from the Bunurong Coast by Rees Quilford 
My local MP blocked me
June 8, 2025 - What does it means for democracy if our politicians can shut us up if they don’t like what we’re saying? By Oliver Jobe 
The art of change
June 7, 2025 - More than a gallery, ArtSpace continues to inspire new ways of seeing and being. By Laura Brearley 
Across the waters
June 8, 2025 - When author Christine Dineen related a story of the first French Island ferryman, his daughter in the audience told how she was named after the ferry. 
A cook’s journal
June 7, 2025 - Arabian spices combine with an African barbecue in this delectable spiced goat dish. By Liane Arno |
Against the odds
May 16, 2025 - How Mary Aldred won the battle for Monash despite a national Liberal Party wipeout. 
Libs prevail in ‘weird’ election
May 14, 2025 - Final result doesn’t show how close Deb Leonard came to an upset, writes Michael Whelan. 
Farewell friends
May 15, 2025 - Grace, diplomacy and a sprinkling of spite … the other Monash candidates sign off after a nerve-racking election. By Catherine Watson 
In the line of fire
May 15, 2025 - Managing fire for people and wildlife isn't rocket science, says Professor Mike Clarke. It’s much more complex than that. 
Petrol before people
May 16, 2025 - In the midst of a housing crisis, five houses are demolished for one more service station, writes Geoff Ellis. 
Raise the rates and fix the joint!
Frank Schooneveldt’s plea to council on roads and drainage plan that stretches all the way to 2090. 
Measure of success
May 7, 2025 - Neil Daly presses the case for an audit of our efforts to grow mangroves in the eastern arm of Western Port. |
Frequent flyers and vagrants
May 17, 2025 - Dave Newman pays tribute to our migratory wader birds and their epic flights, including some that don’t go to plan. 
Welcome home
May 15, 2025 - As the Gurdies forest begins to recover from fire, the animals are returning 
Growing together
May 12, 2025 – Friendship and learning flourish alongside the plants at the Wonthaggi Seed Bank and Nursery. 
Can you help?
May 16, 2025 - A variety of volunteer roles need to be filled at Bass Coast's winter shelter for homeless people. 
The birds are back
May 12, 2025 - As our migratory shorebirds depart for their Arctic breeding grounds, the Flyways exhibition opens to celebrate their extraordinary journey. 
More than water
May 16, 2025 - A spectacular night sky photo by Iryna MacMillan has won first prize in West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority’s photo competition. 
A cook’s journal
May 15, 2025 - Liane Arno recommends an Asian twist on an old American favourite. |
Not the full story
April 24, 2025 - A Liberal Party poster seen at early voting centres around Monash quotes misleadingly from an interview with independent Deb Leonard published in the Bass Coast Post in 2022. 
Patriots get the wrong independent
April 23, 2025 - The Trumpet of Patriots Party is hastily reprinting their How to Vote cards for the Monash electorate after preferencing the wrong independent. Meet the candidates
Kuljeet Kuar Robinson, One Nation
Kuljeet Kuar Robinson left India because of the inequality between rich and poor. Now she sees the same thing happening in Australia. 
Tully Fletcher, Labor Party
The Post declined the candidate’s “terms of engagement”. 
Mary Aldred, Liberal Party
Plenty has changed since November 2023 when Liberal candidate Aldred won pre-selection over long-term Liberal MP Russell Broadbent. 
Deb Leonard, Independent
Deb Leonard has a massive campaign war chest and an army of volunteers. No wonder the other candidates are cranky. 
Geoff Dethlefs, Family First
You can credit Anthony Albanese with persuading Geoff Dethlefs to stand for election. 
David O'Reilly, Legalise Cannabis Party
The Post was unable to contact the candidate. 
Terence Steele, Greens
Terence Steele is an organiser, not a front man. He sees this election as the start of a grand plan for Monash. 
Alex Wehbe, Trumpet of Patriots
Alex Wehbe reckons party leader Clive Palmer will shake up the Australian establishment the way Donald Trump has done in the US. |
Hit them where it hurts!
April 16, 2025 - Too young to vote - but Anabelle Bremner is urging climate action at the ballot box. 
My MP wishlist
April 10, 2025 - Policies are important but so is the character of our representatives, writes Alison Vincent. 
Bring back the town hall debate!
April 14, 2025 - Robert Durkacz laments the lack of serious discussion in the Monash election. Election-free zone
The miracle chick
April 14, 2025 - It’s been a long and difficult summer for our hooded plovers and their minders, but a fairytale finish to the breeding season has local volunteers celebrating. 
Home is where the art is
In his 90th year, Phillip Island artist John Adam is enjoying a purple patch. 
Shelter from the storm
A shelter for homeless people will operate in Cowes this winter, with church buildings used to provide an evening meal and dormitory style accommodation. 
Beach bags steady as a rock
April 16 – Seven Silverleaves families are sleeping a lot easier this week after emergency dune works to stabilise the beach in front of their houses. 
Wombat woes
Pushed into an ever-dwindling corridor of habitat, San Remo’s wombats need our help, writes Eve Kelly. $123m budget open for comment
April 16, 2025 - Rates will rise an average of 3 per cent as Bass Coast budgets for total income of $123 million. 
Lights off for shearwater chicks
April 10, 2025 - PHILLIP Island Nature Parks calls on community to help shearwater chicks about to embark on their first annual 15,000km migration north. 
A cook’s journal
April 15 - Liane Arno calls on her Scottish ancestry to perfect fish pie - an economical and delicious way to mark Easter. |
Who’d be a politician?
March 27, 2025 - Belinda Henderson pities the would-be politicians who have put their lives on hold to beg for our votes. 
No place like home
March 25, 2025 - Each year, as the end of the lease nears, Danielle wonders whether she is about to lose her home. 
The final set
March 27, 2025 - Neil Luke’s old surfing mates celebrate the life of a surfing legend who did things his own way. 
What next, Mr Dinosaur?
March 22, 2025 - Mike Cleeland has given up the day job but he’s not hanging up the rock hammer any time soon. By Ed Thexton 
The trail blazers
March 21, 2023 - It would be easy to mistake them for a bunch of ladies who lunch, but you are looking at a group of revolutionaries. 
Nature notes
March 25, 2025 - Phillip Island Nature Parks is celebrating the fledging of 65 Critically Endangered fairy tern chicks on the island. 
Wonthaggi’s war
March 25, 2025 - The Plaza Arcade played an unlikely role as a drill hall in the Second World War. 
Double for Inverloch writer
March 27, 2025 - Judy Vradenburg has pulled off a second major award with her fly-on-the-wall account of local community activism. |
Lights off for shearwater chicks
April 10, 2025 - PHILLIP Island Nature Parks calls on community to help shearwater chicks about to embark on their first annual 15,000km migration north. 
Better than cupcakes
March 28, 2025 - In the midst of 100 others women, Leslie Adams reclaims her voice. 
The voyager
March 24, 2025 - There’s a sense of timelessness in Jan Learmonth’s work, of slow-moving waters and a world beyond the human one. By Louisa Waters 
Long haul to first state coal mine
March 24, 2025 - The State Coal Mine came to life almost overnight. But it took more than half a century and a state of emergency for it to happen. 
A photo journal
March 24, 2025 - Julie Paterson explores the Bass Coast, taking photos and observing contrasts. 
Stuff my relatives never told me
March 26, 2025 - Peter Brown delves into his family history and discovers stories of mutiny, adultery and murder. 
Hey presto!
March 24, 2025 - Liane Arno works her magic and has no idea how she did it. 
One step at a time
March 27, 2025 - Sometimes running is effortless and sometimes it’s a feat of endurance. Etsuko Yasunaga cheers on a friend running his first marathon. |
Ask the candidates
March 14, 2025 - The Battle for Monash is shaping as one of the most intriguing of the 2025 federal election. Let the bidding begin
Feb 27, 2025 - After years of being ignored by both major parties, Monash voters can expect to see some election promises coming our way. 
The fixer
March 1, 2025 - Who are we going to call now that Nifty Nev is gone? By Catherine Watson 
Every bottle tells a story
Feb 28, 2025 - A hurricane, a fire and a twister couldn't stop Wendy Heaney and Bruce Preston. By Camilla Myers. 
No go for sand company
Feb 20, 2025 - Council rejects plans to widen Stanley Road in Grantville for sand trucks to service a new quarry. 
Help us on housing: council plea
Feb 20, 2025 - Growth councils head to Canberra to seek federal funding to open land for housing. 
Tigers make a splash
Feb 27, 2025 - A Richmond Football Club subsidiary will replace the YMCA as manager of Bass Coast’s leisure centres from July 1. 
‘Bigger is better’ for new health service
Feb 26, 2025 - Future looks bright for Bass Coast residents, saysCEO. 
Swimming against the tide
Feb 27, 2025 - There may be lessons for Bass Coast in another small coastal town’s attempts to halt coastal erosion. |
Endangered Species
Feb 26, 2025 - On the morning they disappeared, the day was born into a thick sea mist. A short story by Aneta Marovich. 
Power plays
Feb 28, 2025 - So you think power lines for offshore wind are ugly? Look around you, suggests Christopher Eastman-Nagle. 
Just the job
Feb 28, 2025 - Kane Bond explains why we need our own local jobs board. 
All together now
A community choir of 100 women share their stories through song at Wonthaggi's Union Theatre. Return to the dark ages
March 2, 2025 - Dismantling of the US public service hurts us too, writes Christine Grayden. 
Living lightly
Feb 28, 2025 - From home battery storage to preserving, council workshops aim to help residents live more sustainably. 
Any time, any where
Feb 27, 2025 - Geoff Ellis searches for the sweet spot between reality and virtuality. 
A cook’s journal
Feb 27, 2025 - It can be difficult to make tasty gluten-free food but anyone could enjoy this orange and almond cake. |
Help us on housing: council plea
Feb 20, 2025 - Growth councils head to Canberra to seek federal funding to open land for housing. 
Count me in, says Broadbent
Feb 4, 2025 - The seat of Monash is shaping as a thriller with Independent MP Russell Broadbent announcing he’ll have another go at the age of 74. 
Russ stands his ground
Feb 1, 2025 - You wouldn’t pick Russ Williams for a typical greenie but he’s ready to defend his patch of bush. 
A long journey at the gathering place
Feb 4, 2025 - Over three days, hundreds of local people joined renowned artist Maree Clarke in creating an important artwork for Berninneit. 
Signs of life
Feb 3, 2025 - Four weeks after the Gurdies fire, Dr Sera Blair began documenting the survival and return of wildlife to the fire zone. 
Local boost for cancer patients
Jan 31, 2025 - Wonthaggi’s cancer centre provided over 1000 cancer treatments last year, sparing patients the emotional, physical and financial toll of travelling for treatment. Community diary
What's on, where and when |
A feast for all the senses
Jan 30, 2025 - Sixteen inspiring food gardens open their gates for the fourth annual Bass Coast Edible Gardens Weekend. 
Pillage and plunder in Warn Marin Western Port
Feb 2, 2025 - Industrialisation of the bay began 30 years before permanent white settlement, writes Christine Grayden. 
Kilcunda Coal
Feb 2, 2025 - Linda Cuttriss had always wondered about that mullock heap. It wasn’t until she was held up by roadworks that she stopped to find out more. 
A bump in the road
Feb 1, 2025 - Obstacles make the journey even sweeter. By Etsuko Yasunaga 
Close encounters
Feb 2, 2025 – When Julie Paterson first heard about Wonthaggi’s emus she suspected it was a tall tale. 
Please come again, but not for a while
Feb 4, 2025 - The visitors have gone at last and peace descends. By Catherine Watson 
The koel, part II
Feb 3, 2025 - Remember the eastern koel with the infuriating mating call? Well it clearly worked because koel babies are popping up everywhere. 
Big plans for this little shed
Jan 31, 2025 - The Cowes Jetty Goods Shed has worn many hats over the years. It now sits vacant, awaiting its next transformation. |