SAVER: Robin Watt fills up with petrol at Shell in Golden Square amid a fuel price hike at some outlets. Picture: Jim Aldersey
BENDIGO motorists were surprised to see petrol prices exceed $1.50 for the first time this year, yesterday.
At least three petrol stations around Bendigo had unleaded petrol prices at $1.55 per litre with many others priced around the $1.40 mark.
Motorists Heather Cattanach was disappointed with the price rise.
“I’m only putting $10 worth in my tank. There’s no way I’m paying $1.55 (per litre) for a full tank of petrol” she said.
Heathcote resident Robin Watt admitted to being “shocked” by the price of petrol but said there wasn’t much people could do if they needed fuel.
Acting manager of vehicle engineering at Bendigo RACV Nicholas Platt wasn’t sure why some petrol stations had increased their prices.
He said a number of reasons could have resulted in the hike. “Bendigo follows a similar trend to Melbourne in terms of petrol pricing,” he said.
“Prices rose to the $1.50 mark in mid October last year before taking a dip in early November.
“Since then prices have been fairly steady. The rise in cost now could just be another overall trend.”For the time being Mr Platt’s advice is look around for the best deals.
“Take advantage of the cheaper fuel where it is available. There is a full list of locations and fuel prices on the RACV website to help motorists ensure they’re getting their money’s worth”.
