With fuel prices increasing with the reintroduction of fuel taxes last week, charity fundraising events are likely to be impacted, is the warning from one event organiser.
Peter Freeman, President of the Logan-based Brisbane Car Meets and Cruising Inc, said members are concerned the latest price increase will see fewer vehicles attending charity events.
“It was the same with the last prices rises, it has a big impact on our cruises and events,” Mr Freeman said.
“Previously, we held one or two events a fortnight, the price rises really kicked us in the butt, it was starting to return to previous levels, we are worried where it will go with this latest increase.”
Mr Freeman said the club worked with local Lions and Rotary Clubs, providing cars for displays and open days, as well as holding their own events.
“We have just been invited to do a major event, celebrating a public figure in the local car industry who recently passed away, but we don’t know how many members will be able to attend.
“This is on top of our regular events, including a breakfast event at the Tin Cup Cafe at the Beenleigh Historical Village with more than 150 cars on display, our members spend money at the cafe, there are plenty of visitors come to see the cars, they spend money as well.”
While the impact on individual members not being able to use their cars as much is one aspect, Mr Freeman said the cruises and shows also benefit local businesses.
“We are regularly asked to provide cars for business displays and promotions, our members don’t get paid, they do it voluntarily, including spending many hours preparing cars, and they draw plenty of visitors, that is likely to suffer now.”
A spokesperson for Chevron Australia Downstream, operator of Puma fuel stations in Logan, said the full excise will not show up in prices immediately.
“The excise will show in advertised retail petrol and diesel prices once the stock at a site has turned over and is replaced with fuel that has had the excise levied on it,” the spokesperson said.
“The fuel excise is just one part of the price of fuel. The price is primarily determined by regional markets and driven by global oil prices. We continually review our pricing to ensure it remains competitive.”
