With fuel prices continuing to soar, one of Victoria’s leading automobile groups has urged drivers to think about where they fuel up. 

Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce media and communications manager Murray Collins said it was important drivers didn’t leave it until the last minute to get their petrol. 

“Plan ahead, try and buy your fuel at a time convenient to you rather than when you have family or friends in the car and you are already on the journey,” he said. 

The Courier went to many petrol stations yesterday which had  a variety of prices ranging from 151.7 cents a litre  to 154.9 cents. 

Mr Collins said petrol prices were up and down. 

“But we have seen them get to $1.60 a litre, which is extremely high,” he said. 

“Christmas is expensive enough as it is ... the last thing we want is for people to get in the car and fuel up at the prices they are given.”

Mr Collins said it was important to support smaller  businesses in the holiday season.

“Have a think about the independents, the small businesses who are working for themselves and have a small staff,” he said. 

“If you have to fill up, fill up with an independent because at least you will be helping the small businesses in the area rather than huge global organisations which clearly have enough money as is.”

matthew.dixon@fairfaxmedia.com.au