The Club’s June Monthly Fuel Price report found the average price in Cairns increased by 8.5cpl to 115.4cpl in just a month.

RACQ spokesperson Renee Smith said prices jumped across the State after oil prices steadily increased in May and June, but oil, now at $US 40 per barrel, remained substantially lower than the $US 60 per barrel we experienced in January. 

“It was good while it lasted but unfortunately the days of ULP for less than 100cpl are behind us for now,” Ms Smith said. 

“Oil prices were higher in June due to an increase in demand as Governments lifted COVID-19 travel restrictions. 

“At the same time, there was a substantial drop in oil supply due to the production cuts agreed to by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and their allies including Russia. There was also a dramatic reduction in US shale oil production.

“A change in the price of global oil does take six to eight weeks to flow on at the bowser in regional areas which is what we’re seeing at the moment.” 

Ms Smith said no matter where you were in the State, the advice remained the same when it came to filling up the tank. 

“Motorists underestimate how much power they have when it comes to keeping prices as low as possible, if they would only do a little bit of homework,” she said. 

“We’re urging motorists to use tools like apps to fill up for the best price possible. Supporting the fuel companies offering the cheapest price will encourage competition in your local area.”