Growers on both sides of the border are feeling the pressure of too little fuel at too high a cost. Connie Taylor, president of the Granite Belt Growers Association told the Town & Country Journal that fuel prices are “ridiculous” and that last week they only got 25 percent of their full order.
“It’s better than nothing,” she said. “Suppliers are doing their best. That’s all they can get and they have to ration it out.”
Connie is certain that growers have had to rethink or cut back on activities that use fuel, even though they have had no confirmation yet that fuel will run out entirely.
Ms Taylor, whose group represents 56 growers in the area, considers whether rationing is on the cards.
“I think something’s going to happen,” she replies. “I’m not sure about rationing, but something’s going to implode.”
Part of the problem is that city drivers are getting fuel quicker than the regions. Connie appreciates that MP James Lister has raised the fuel crisis cry loud and clear and focusing the federal government’s attention on regional Australia.
David Andreatta, a Granite Belt grower, told the Town & Country Journal that he had received some fuel late last week and thought the media attention had helped. He said that his supplier told him that they were trying to prioritise growers.
In Tenterfield, residents have been told that the NSW government is doing unannounced inspections of fuel retailers in regional areas and is working with the ACCC to uphold strong pricing standards. It is worthwhile to download the NSW FuelCheck app which allows you to compare prices, track price cycles and receive price-drop alerts. By law, every fuel retailer must register with Fuel Check and report price changes in real time guarantee that displayed prices match the price charged at the bowser. Breaking the rule attract a $1100 fine or court penalties of up to $22,000 for individuals and $110,000 for corporations. “As part of NSW’s preparations, I have written to the major fuel companies seeking information about historical and future fuel orders,” said Minister for Energy Penny Sharpe.
The ongoing war between Iran, the US and many of Iran’s neighbours are costing Australians dearly.
Research by the largest holiday group indicates that if the price of fuel tips $3 a litre, Australian travellers will consider staying home, which will have a devastating impact on the tourism economy of the Southern Downs and Tenterfield Shire.
Australian GPs, specialists and healthcare professionals signed an open letter to the federal government warning that the price of oil is harming public health.
“Financial pressure contributes to sleep disturbance, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues – and as doctors we’re seeing these in our communities”, said Dr Kate Wylie.
