DNR regional service director for South East Region, Malcolm Cremer, said Wondai's total rateable value had decreased by 0.54 per cent since the last valuation carried out in October 1998. Unimproved valuations in the townships of Proston, Hivesville, Mondure and Wheatlands have reduced on average by 30 per cent. Values of larger and more remote residential sites have also generally remained unchanged. Mr Cremer said agricultural and grazing properties throughout the Shire had not changed, which was consistent with unimproved valuations in Kingaroy Shire and the western side of Murgon Shire. 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 Cremer 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. Details of the 1 October 2000 Annual Valuation can be inspected until 9 April 2001 at Wondai Shire Council office, Wondai, during business hours. Objections can be lodged to valuations within 42 days of receipt of the notices and can be sent to Department of Natural Resources and Mines, P O Box 15, Kingaroy Qld 4610.