Community
11 March, 2026
Service stations and farmers 'frustrated' by fuel limits
"We know this is frustrating, it's frustrating for us too, but it's what needs to be done."
SERVICE stations in the area are preparing for low fuel levels and rising prices as many questions "higher up in the fuel chain" remain.
St Arnaud Apex Service Station is one of the many who have had to let their customers know they will no longer be filling fuel cells and trailer tanks until further notice.
"We don't know when we're going to get a delivery and we don't know if we'll get enough when we do," Lisa Esmore said.
"We had a lot of farmer come through with their trailers, but our supplier Lowes have asked us to put a stop on that.
"We had people say they would just bring jerry cans in, but we can't let that happen either.
"There's just too many unknowns at the moment."
Mrs Esmore said it was difficult to enforce these rules in the community, but the decision hadn't come from them.
"Some of our delivery drivers have said they've been abused by people as they go along, but it's not our decision," she said.
"We know this is frustrating, it's frustrating for us too, but it's what needs to be done."
Mrs Esmore said emergency service vehicles are exempt.
TASCO Petroleum has also instructed their stations across the state to also enfore similar rules through a letter sent to owners.
"Due to unusually high demand, temporary fuel limits are in place," the letter sent to AMPOL Charlton said.
The letter said a registered vehicle and a maximum of one 25L approved jerry can per transaction.
This meant trailer tanks, pods, drums or bulk containers and IBCs or similar vessels would not be filled.
"These measures help ensure fair access and continued supply for all customers," the letter said.
A representative from AMPOL St Arnaud confirmed they don't yet have them in place.
TASCO Petroleum runs service stations in Charlton, St Arnaud, Serpentine and Bendigo.
TASCO Petroleum has been contacted for comment.