New Year’s Eve on the Peninsula

Celebration sparklers.jpg

New Year’s Eve draws large crowds, creating safety and crowd-management challenges. The Mornington Peninsula Shire, Victoria Police and other emergency services and agencies have discussed concerns about community wellbeing. Based on feedback, targeted safety measures are being implemented, primarily at Sorrento Foreshore (the main site) and other high-traffic pedestrian areas. Please see below for more information.

Please note: There are no official Council-run events on New Year’s Eve. Please follow all signage and directions from Victoria Police and on-site traffic controllers.

Important reminders for everyone celebrating

  • Call 000 or report to patrolling police if a child is missing or lost.
  • Call 000 or report to patrolling police if you witness violent or unsafe behaviour.
  • Victoria Police will be patrolling all areas.
  • Ambulance Victoria will have nearby coverage across the Peninsula.
  • Fireworks, flares, and other flammable or explosive materials are strictly prohibited along foreshore areas.
  • Alcohol is banned in all council public spaces and foreshore areas from 9 PM, 30 Dec to midnight, 1 Jan.
  • The Rye Carnival will be closed on New Year’s Eve.
  • The Rye Pier & The Baths Sorrento Jetty will be closed on New Year’s Eve.
  • Stay hydrated – bring your own water bottle.
  • Dispose of waste in street litter bins or take it home.
  • Treat others with respect.
  • Plan your journey home early — phone lines and networks may be busy.
  • Transport Victoria is running more frequent NYE buses across the Peninsula, including two new late-night routes until at least 2am.
    Key services:
     - 788 Frankston – Sorrento (increased frequency until 8am).
    - 781 Frankston – Dromana (hourly until 2am).
    - 782 Frankston – Crib Point (hourly until 2:30am).
    Plan your trip with Transport Victoria.
  • Visit Searoad Ferries for NYE ferry timetables.
  • Celebrate responsibly 

Safety measures by location

Sorrento Foreshore (Between The Baths Sorrento and Esplanade)

Starts: 5pm on 31 December 2025

Key measures:

  • Road closure (The Esplanade – Ferry Terminal) – ferry access remains open for pedestrians and vehicles.
  • The Baths Sorrento Jetty closure.
  • Designated drop-off/pick-up zone (Pt Nepean Road near The Baths Sorrento).
  • Lighting towers along Bay Trail path for visibility at night.
  • First Aid presence.
  • Red Frogs Harm Reduction Services - Chill-Out Zone & roaming volunteers providing free water, support, guidance, and a safe space to rest or recover.
  • Free hydration station (Wallop Water Trailer Bar).
  • Additional waste bins .

Portsea to Sorrento Corridor

Starts: 5pm on 31 December 2025

Key measures:

  • Speed reduction to 40 km/h along Pt Nepean Road.

Rye Foreshore

Starts: 5pm on 31 December 2025

Key Measures:

  • Carpark closures at pier, scout, and boat carparks.
  • Pier closure.
  • Lighting towers for visibility at night.

Dromana Foreshore (next to Pier)

Starts: 5pm on 31 December 2025

Key Measures:

  • Lighting tower in place for visibility at night.

Rosebud Foreshore (next to Pier)

Starts: 5pm on 31 December 2025

Key Measures:

  • Lighting tower in place for visibility at night.

Portsea Foreshore (The Cutting)

Starts: 5pm on 31 December

Key Measures:

  • Lighting tower in place for visibility at night.

 

Emergency contacts

Triple Zero (000): Call 000 for all emergencies – medical, fire, or violent incidents

 

Victoria Police: Call 000 for urgent matters or approach patrolling officers directly

 

Ambulance Victoria: Call 000 for any medical emergency

 

Fire / CFA: Call 000 for any fire incidents, including illegal fireworks

 

Frankston Hospital: Call 9784 7777 – 2 Hastings Rd, Frankston

 

Rosebud Hospital: Call 5986 0666 – 95-97 Tanti Ave, Rosebud

 

SES: Call 132 500 for severe weather or flood-related issues

 

Poison Information: Call 13 11 26 for food, drink, or chemical-related concerns

 

Mornington Peninsula Shire: Call 1300 850 600 for local information or general queries

Enjoy a Safe New Year’s Eve

We thank residents, visitors, and local businesses for your cooperation. Together with Victoria Police and emergency services, we’re keeping the Peninsula safe and enjoyable for everyone this New Year’s Eve.

 

Remember to look out for each other, follow all signage and directions, and celebrate responsibly.

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