The larger increases were experienced in those areas to the south and south east of Cooktown. Mr Myers said that little variance in rural home site values had occurred in the Endeavour Valley, however valuation increases of up to 10 per cent had been experienced in the rural home site market within the parishes of Annan and Monkhouse, and for land between the Annan River and Rossville. Sales of primary production lands, including large pastoral properties, have been scarce. Those sales that have transacted have identified that there has been no substantial variance to the existing values. Of the 124 local governments in Queensland, there were 37 that had sufficient market movement for new valuations to be issued this year.
Valuations are only one of many guides available to councils.
Mr Myers said the actual rate charged was the decision of the individual council based on its local policies and financial requirements for the year ahead. However, valuations are used by the Office of State Revenue for levying land tax. Amendments to the Valuation of Land Act 1944 mean that some landholders who hold land under a lease, licence or permit from the State will receive two valuation notices this year. Objections can be lodged to valuations within 42 days of receipt of the notices and can be sent to the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, PO Box 937, Cairns, 4870.