Fuel Prices under threat from Bruce Highway Bypass

The release of the Bruce Highway (Cooroy to Curra) Strategic Planning Study on 14^th March revealed that the new proposed Bruce Highway bypasses the iconic Matilda Truck &Travel Stop at Kybong by 750 metres to the east and approximately 2 kilometers to the nearest highway interchanges.

The proposed re-routing of the highway will destroy the viability of this site which is the forerunner of modern Australian highway travel centres.  The concepts developed here have been incorporated into other new travel centres around Australia.  Matilda Kybong has provided great service to travellers and the transport industry.  Matilda has kept fuel prices low on the highway and in the Cooloola and Sunshine Coast areas since 1988.

Over 110 Sunshine Coast residents are directly employed at Matilda Kybong and over 2000 employees of agents and contactors depend on Matilda for their livelihood.

The demise of Matilda Kybong will seriously jeopordise the future of the Matilda group, their staff, contractors and suppliers.

The wider impact will be on fuel prices. 

The volume of sales at Matilda Kybong underpins the supply terms for all fuel and shop merchandise at all Matilda sites.

It has been acknowledged by Parliamentary Inquiries, the ACCC, the RACQ and independent fuel pricing monitors such as Fueltrac and Motormouth that South Queensland fuel prices have been heavily influenced by Matilda’s cheaper fuel pricing policy.  Without Matilda, fuel will be much more expensive in South Queensland.  Fueltrac have estimated that without Matilda, fuel prices could rise by 6 to 10 cents per litre.

At the time of announcing the new highway route the Queensland Department of Main Roads have not carried out an economic study or taken into account the social dislocation flowing from the loss of jobs.

The Queensland Government has not considered the flow on impact of increased fuel prices in this decision to bypass Matilda Kybong.

1. The government must intervene to keep fuel prices low and save jobs. 
2. The government must act quickly to end the fear and uncertainty felt by people who depend on Matilda. 
3. The government must ensure the survival of this important Queensland and Mary Valley icon.

 Matilda needs your support. 

 Please personal message to savematilda@matildafuel.com.au

Your input can make a difference and we will be extremely grateful for your help.