Community & Business
5 April, 2026
STORMCo still coming despite fuel fears
STORMCo has been providing its school holiday program in Nyngan for more than 25 years, bringing a group of young volunteers out each April.
Uncertainty around fuel prices and availability almost forced the cancellation of next week’s annual STORMCo visit to Nyngan however, mayor Glen Neill and Bogan Shire Council have stepped in to assure the Sydney-based organisation they won’t be left high and dry.
On Monday STORMCo leader Roshelle Fraser advised that due to “current issues regarding diesel availability and cost” the group had decided to “reluctantly cancel our upcoming visit to Nyngan”.
When Cr Neill heard of the decision, he immediately contacted Ms Fraser and guaranteed them fuel to get to Nyngan and back to Sydney.
STORMCo expressed its gratitude for mayor Neill’s offer, and the visit is back on track for the first week of the Easter school holidays.
The announcement has been welcomed by the local community.
“STORMCo do an amazing thing for the young people of the Bogan shire, I’m so glad they are being welcomed back,” said one mother.
Meanwhile the fuel crisis is causing tourism concerns right across regional NSW and has prompted the state member for Barwon, Roy Butler, to urge city residents to continue with their plans to visit over the Easter holiday.
Tourism operators are reporting a bump in Easter cancellations against a backdrop of lower overall bookings in March this year compared to the same time last year.
“It’s a tough time for many people who work in tourism,” said Mr Butler.
“Caravan parks in Broken Hill are reporting a drop in revenue of more than 25 per cent, with management and staff discussing reduced hours.
“Fewer shifts are available for motel workers around Narrabri too.
“Tourism businesses and their employees are being squeezed by rising fuel costs on the one hand and declining visitor numbers on the other,” said Mr Butler.
There has been a lot of media coverage about regional areas running short of fuel, so city residents need to be reassured that they won’t get stuck if they plan ahead.
“While some individual service stations might run short of some fuels, there is still fuel available across the regions,” said Mr Butler.
“My message to city residents is - don't cancel your Easter holiday plans because you’re worried about fuel.
“Use the NSW FuelCheck app to plan your journey and check fuel availability along the way.
“You’ll create lasting memories while supporting local communities at the same time.”
Read More: Nyngan