Knowing Frankston – Week 30
20–26 July 2026
Frankson in the 70’s: Photo Courtesy Frankston History
Some moments make headlines. Others quietly shape the future of our community. New businesses open, familiar faces move on, community groups make a difference, events bring people together, and plans are made for the future.
Knowing Frankston documents these moments week by week, creating an ongoing record of our city.
This Week in Focus
3MP Celebrates 50 Years
For half a century, 3MP has been part of Frankston’s story. This week, the station celebrated its 50th anniversary, prompting a flood of memories from listeners who grew up with local radio as part of everyday life. From favourite presenters and community announcements to childhood visits to the studios, the milestone reminded us of the important role 3MP has played in connecting generations across Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula.
Goodbye & Hello – What’s Changed This Week
Hello to a New Era at Centenary Park Golf Course
Centenary Park Golf Course has officially entered a new chapter, with Peninsula Leisure taking over management this month. While golfers can expect the same much-loved course, plans are already underway for upgrades including a new fleet of GPS-equipped golf carts, an enhanced café menu and improvements to the Pro Shop. It’s a fresh beginning for one of Frankston’s most popular public sporting facilities.
Where: Centenary Park Golf Course, McClelland Drive, Frankston. Bookings: centenaryparkgolf.com.au.
Hello to Baylight’s Display Suite
Curious about Frankston’s newest waterfront development? Baylight is opening its display suite to the public on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August, inviting locals to explore the apartments, enjoy the waterfront views and grab a complimentary coffee. Whether you’re considering a move or simply interested in what’s taking shape on Beach Street, it’s a chance to see one of Frankston’s biggest developments up close.
iPlay Frankston Opens This Week
Frankston’s entertainment scene is continuing to grow, with iPlay Frankston opening on Thursday 30 July. The new indoor entertainment venue will bring another family-friendly attraction to the city centre, offering a fresh place for children, teenagers and families to spend time together. Its arrival marks another welcome “hello” for central Frankston as new businesses and attractions continue moving into the area.
Development & Infrastructure
Baxter Park Entrance Set for an Upgrade
Frankston City Council is seeking $2 million from the Victorian Government to support improvements at Baxter Park, including its ageing entrance road and multi-sport facilities. The busy recreation reserve is home to football, equestrian activities, archery and other community sport, but visitors currently navigate an entrance that is no longer considered suitable for the precinct. The proposed improvements would create safer access and support Baxter Park’s future growth.
Events & What’s Happening
National Tree Day Community Planting
Frankston City is inviting the community to roll up their sleeves and celebrate National Tree Day at Overport Park this Sunday. Residents of all ages are encouraged to help plant native trees and shrubs, enjoy a free sausage and coffee, and take home a free tree while stocks last.
The community event follows Frankston City’s biggest-ever Schools Tree Day, with more than 5,500 children from over 60 schools and early learning centres planting 12,000 indigenous plants across the municipality. Together, these efforts are helping create a greener, healthier Frankston for future generations.
Registration is encouraged to help organisers plan for volunteers, planting equipment, catering and the Big Tree Giveaway.
Arts & Culture
Last Chance to Purchase Derinya Art Exhibition Works
If you missed this year’s Derinya Art & Craft Exhibition, or have been thinking about a favourite piece, there’s still time to purchase original artworks online. Remaining works from the exhibition will be available until 11.59 pm on Sunday, 26 July, giving art lovers one final opportunity to support local artists and take home an original creation before online sales close.
Jersey Boys opens at Frankston Arts Centre
The award-winning musical Jersey Boys opens at the Frankston Arts Centre on 24 July, bringing the story and music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to local audiences. The production runs until 1 August, giving theatre lovers the chance to enjoy one of the world’s most successful musicals without leaving Frankston.
No Place Like Home’ exhibition opens next week
The Frankston Arts Centre’s FAC Open Exhibition 2026 opens on 31 July, showcasing paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, textiles and digital art exploring the theme of home. The free exhibition runs until 28 August, with an opening night and winner announcement on 31 July.
Local Business
Builders & Trades Business Accelerator launches
Local builders and tradespeople are being encouraged to strengthen their businesses through Frankston City’s Builders & Trades Business Accelerator workshop series. The program is designed to help business owners improve profitability, save time and build more sustainable businesses, reflecting Council’s continued investment in supporting local enterprise.
Frankston Business Chamber
The Chamber continues expanding its business education program, with networking and leadership events helping local businesses connect and grow
People
Community Continues Search for Missing Frankston Man
The search continues for 44-year-old Wayne, who was last seen in Blind Bight on Friday 3 July. Three weeks on, family, friends and members of the community are continuing to share his details in the hope that someone may have information that helps police locate him. Anyone with information is urged to contact Cranbourne Police Station on (03) 5991 0600 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Sports & Recreation
Try Ground Golf This Sunday
Looking for something different to do this weekend? The Frankston Susono Friendship Association is inviting the community to try Ground Golf this Sunday, 26 July. Invented in Japan in 1982, the same year Frankston’s sister city relationship with Susono began, the game combines elements of golf putting and croquet and is easy to learn for all ages and abilities.
The group will meet at 12.30 pm at the soccer pitch at Overport Primary School, with play commencing at 1.00 pm. All equipment is provided free, so simply come along and enjoy an afternoon of friendly competition, laughter and community spirit. Everyone is welcome.
Looking Ahead
Housing and Homelessness
This week, Frankston City Council renewed its call for greater investment in homelessness services and crisis accommodation. While it’s not an issue with simple solutions, it’s one that will continue to shape our community. We’ll be watching to see how governments respond and what support becomes available for those doing it toughest.
A Growing City
From new businesses opening in the city centre to the Regional Arts Trail taking shape and community volunteers planting thousands of trees, Frankston continues to change. Some changes happen quickly, others over many years. We’ll keep following the stories that help explain where our city is heading.
