The Department of Natural Resources and Mines today released the annual property valuations for Weipa. DNR regional service director for North Region, Barney Myers, said Weipa's total rateable value had increased by 107 per cent since the last valuation carried out in October 1997. Investigations revealed that the Weipa property market was buoyant until mid-1999 when a change of employment policy by a major employer resulted in a softening of the market. Industrial lands are mainly confined to the suburb of Evans Landing. 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. 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. 15 Lake Street, Cairns. 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.