Drivers Feeling Fuel Pressure as Copper Coast Ride-Share Takes Off
As fuel prices bite across the country, one Copper Coast mum is taking matters into her own hands — and bringing her community with her.
Kadina local Mel Spears is feeling the pressure, just like everyone else. Driving a diesel car herself, she’s already had to cancel appointments in neighbouring towns and rethink everyday plans. And she’s not alone.
Across the region, stories are mounting — from rising costs hitting local businesses, to reports of fuel theft. At Port Wakefield’s Pie Face service station, customers are now required to go inside before their pump is activated, after $500 worth of fuel was lost to drive-offs in just one week.
While official messaging still says fuel supplies are arriving as scheduled, the reality on the ground is that some service stations are running dry, costs are climbing fast, and people are proactively changing the way they get around.
Some Australian states have announced free public transport to ease the pressure. Here in South Australia, the Premier has said it’s too early to implement free fares. And while public transport doesn’t help us here in regional SA – fuel preservation is the key concern.
A Simple Idea Gaining Momentum
But instead of sitting back and worrying, Mel Spears decided to do something about it.
She’s started a local ride-share group, encouraging people across the Copper Coast to team up, share trips and help each other get where they need to go.
“Let’s help each other through this ‘fuel crisis’ and share the ride where we can,” she wrote.
“If you need a lift somewhere, want to share a ride, need one thing from Kadina and live in Moonta, or have a kid that needs to get to a game or school — post here to offer or find a ride.”
The response was immediate, with more than 100 people joining the group in its first day.
Doing Things The Country Way
“The response to the ride share idea has been very supportive and welcomed,” Mel said.
“Everyone is feeling the pinch and it makes me sad to think people are missing out on essentials because of this fuel crisis.”
And that’s where this story really hits.
Because while fuel prices, supply concerns and global events are out of most people’s control, how communities respond isn’t.
That’s what regional South Australia does best.
When things get tough, people don’t just sit back — they step up.
And in this case, it might be as simple as offering a spare seat in the car.
If you’re in the Copper Coast and want to join the ride-share group click here.
