Cr Column Councillor Callan Oar

Now that Council has adopted its 2026/27 budget, I thought I would briefly explain one question that comes up every year – rates.

Like everyone else, Council continues to face increasing costs. Fuel, electricity, materials, insurance and wages all continue to rise. While nobody enjoys paying higher rates, those same costs affect the services Council provides every day.

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I often hear people ask why rates increase when Council has cash in the bank. The simple answer is that much of that money cannot be used to fund everyday operations. It is committed to areas such as grant funded projects, water and sewer services, and reserves set aside for the future replacement of Council infrastructure.

General rates help pay for the services we all expect, including maintaining local roads, parks, drainage, waste collection and community facilities. If rates don't keep pace with rising costs over time, councils are generally left with two choices – reduce services or allow infrastructure to deteriorate.

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On another positive note, construction of the new pump track is progressing well and, weather permitting, is expected to be completed by the end of the month. I look forward to seeing another community facility come to life for local families to enjoy.

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I've noticed the Deputy Mayor has already started polishing up his trusty Mongoose. I can only assume he's quietly preparing to challenge the Mayor to the first (and completely unofficial) pump track race.

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