CR Mark Spina Column

The New Year is certainly off and racing. The kids are back at school, and we slip back to normality after another festive season flashes by.

For property owners, you may have recently received your rates notice for the period from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026.

We are all feeling the costofliving pressures, and Council is mindful of this.

We are careful about how rates are applied, trying to minimise rate increases while providing the services that our community needs, and considering what the community wants.

The services that we need to supply to the community are crucial, with some of the basics being roads, rubbish, water, and sewerage.

It is unavoidable that the costs of delivering these basic services increase each year.

The services that the community wants are something different.

If the community wants extra services in any area, this comes at an extra cost.

Whilst community wants are important, we have to be mindful and balance this with what ratepayers are able to afford.

This year, the State ValuerGeneral will be conducting updated valuations.

I would say that valuations will increase since the last valuation conducted in 2023.

As you may be aware, a portion of rates payable is based on the valuation.

What is important, however, is the rate in the dollar, or the multiplier, which has to be carefully considered before being applied.

If you are not aware, you can arrange a rate payment plan with Council. Payments can be made at any time.

Any payments made in advance throughout the year will sit as a credit against the property until the next rates notice is issued.

In addition, if you are finding it difficult to make payment, you can discuss other repayment options with the Rates Department — they will be happy to assist.

For more information, you can also visit:
https://www.hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au/our-council/rates-and-charges/rates-payments-plans/

And finally, what a great weekend of entertainment coming up, with Tones and I playing at the Showgrounds on Friday, and Diesel playing at the Shire Hall on Saturday.

Let’s show them how we rock ’n’ roll Ingham — The Hinchinbrook Way!

Until next time, take care and be kind.

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