NEWS DESK
Irate farmers set to dig in Continued from Page 1 Victoria’s Valuation of Land Act defines farm land as “any rateable land … that is used primarily for grazing (including agistment), dairying, pigfarming, poultry-farming, fish-farming, tree-farming, bee-keeping, viticulture, horticulture, fruit-growing or the growing of crops of any kind or for any combination of those activities”. It must be used by a business “that has a significant and substantial commercial purpose or character; and that seeks to make a profit on a continuous or repetitive basis from its activities on the land”. Further, the business must be “making a profit from its activities on the land, or that has a reasonable prospect of making a profit from its activities on the land if it continues to operate in the way that it is operating”. Part of council’s task in reviewing the farm rate will be to ensure that all those claiming it are eligible under the Act. Many “Collins St farmers” across Victoria use farm activities as low or negative income producers, to offset profits made in other income areas and
thus reduce their overall tax bill. The shire says that this year it has issued 962 farm house assessments, or 1.0 per cent of assessments, with a value of just under $450 million CIV, which will gather $1 million, or 0.8 per cent of total rate revenue in 2015-16. Shire revenue from residential properties this year is $126 million, including $15.5 million from the municipal charge. Rates and charges will bring in just under $150 million, according to the shire. The document indicates areas the shire is focusing on in its review. They include: The $180 municipal charge. Whether to introduce a waste/garbage/environment charge. Differentials, including the farm rate and new differentials on commercial and industrial properties. A review of land sustainability and heritage rate rebates. The shire clearly indicates that it favours lifting rates on commercial and industrial properties for “a more equitable financial contribution”. Currently they pay the residential rate.
About human rights THE shire’s all abilities consultative committee and the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission will present a free information session about the state charter on human rights. It will be from 11am-2pm on Friday 4 December at the shire’s Rosebud office, 90 Besgrove St. The Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 sets out 20 basic rights and responsibilities for all Victorians. This includes the right to be treated equally when accessing services such as disability parking spaces, a key topic on the peninsula where one in five residents live with a disability. People with a disability, their carers and families can learn more about their rights under the charter. Event includes general discussion and a light lunch. Register online at www.eventbrite.com.au Details: 5950 1685 or email spcd. admin@mornpen.vic.gov.au
Looking up: Cast members of the sci fi play “What’s Above” during a dress rehersal at Hastings Hall. Picture: Gary Sissons
The spoof is way out there A PLAY that’s truly out of this world will land on stage at Hastings Hall this month. A youth show production by Pelican Theatre Company called ‘What’s Above?’ featuring performers aged 10-18 will investigate mysterious sightings of UFOs and aliens. The play is written by Pelican Theatre Company vice-president Madeleine Kay who says the comedy about people who believe in aliens is suitable for the whole family.
“I watched a documentary about people who believed in aliens in the US and thought it was a really good idea for a show,” she said. “Adopting a mockumentary to the stage is a little bit difficult but the kids have handled it really well. It’s funny and it’s cast by teenagers for teenagers.” The cast have been in rehearsals, overseen by directors Robert Lucas and Alex Watson, since September and the play features an elaborate set
design and space-inspired costumes. Which is no mean feat for a notfor-profit community group run by volunteers. • ‘What’s Above?’, Hastings Hall, 3 High St, Hastings, 7.30pm Friday 20 November, 2pm and 7.30pm Saturday 21 November, 7.30pm Friday 27 November, 2pm and 7.30pm Saturday 28 November. Tickets: adult $18, concessions $15, children under 8, free. Details: facebook/pelicantheatregroup or pelicantheatre.org.au
W & G MOWERS
WHITE RIBBON DAY NOV 25th Australia's camp Australia's A campaign to sttop s p violence again stop against women
WESTERNPORT TAKES A STAND
WE ARE OVERSTOCKED WITH MOWERS! OUT THEY GO!!! Call in and view our Mower specials
“Let’s March Together & Show our Support” When: Wednesday Nov 25th Where: Start March @ Victoria Street, Hastings Post O ce Car Park Time: 11:30am Sharp Followed by Speakers and a Free BBQ at Hastings Hall
ALL WELCOME! FROM 7hp up to 26hp Powered by Kohler, Kawasaki, Honda and Briggs Engines.
WE HAVE MOVED
toIndustrial 5/19 Industrial Drive, Somerville 5/19 Drive Road 1079 Frankston Flinders (Enter from Simcock Street) 5977 5122 Vic 3912 Somerville (Enter from Simcock Street) Phone: Phone: 5977 5122 Phone: 5977 PAGE 8
Western Port News 17 November 2015