High rates puts Surf Life Saving Club in danger
Fri 30 July
High rates puts Surf Life Saving Club in danger
by Mat Churchill
The Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club is at risk of closing due to a rise in its rates bill of 450%.
The Cairns Regional Council has issued the club with an $11,000 rates notice, up from $2,000 last year, a move that could potentially cripple the vital community service.
"The club just doesn't have the revenue to accommodate an $11,000 bill," said Port Surf Life Saving Club representative Michael Bolt. "We're breaking even at the moment and we are always replacing and repairing equipment."
Mayor Val Schier has given the club a temporary reprieve by donating up to $9,000 from her discretionary budget, but that won't provide long term stability.
"We've got to get a permanent resolution. We thought the matter was resolved last year." said Mr Bolt.
At a meeting of the Cairns Regional Council in Babinda yesterday, Cr Julia Leu recommended the Council make an annual donation to keep the club's rates at $2,000, however this was opposed by the majority of councillors who thought other community clubs would then ask for special treatment.
The unimproved value of the land is said to be $1.75 million, but according to Mr Bolt there is no chance for development as the land can only be used for community purposes.
Cr Julia Leu says she has asked the council to review the situation. "Port Douglas coastal land is of course a premium however the valuation of the land is really based on potential development rights which is never going to happen there," she said.
"I have asked for a review of this situation taking into account their special circumstances and also recognising the enormous contribution that the club provides for the community."
With thousands of locals and tourists flocking to Four Mile Beach every year, it's fair to say lives would be at risk if there was no Surf Life Saving Club presence.