Locals Enter Fuel Mourning as Metro Jannali Shuts Pumps: ‘We’re Not Ready for Reddy’

Brock Ledger | Economics Editor | Sutherland Shire Gazette

27 May 2025

JANNALI - The unthinkable is happening. After years of loyal service, bargain prices and a forecourt stacked with suspiciously cheap bulk toilet paper, washing powder and pool chlorine, Metro Petroleum Jannali will pump its last litre this Saturday - sending shockwaves through suburbs from Bonnet Bay to the deepest, most stubbornly independent corners of Como.

“It’s the end of an era. I’ve been filling up here since petrol was cheaper than a Chiko Roll,” sobbed Dave from Oyster Bay, while hugging pump 3. “Now I’ll have to remortgage the house just to visit mum in Kirrawee.”

Locals have long flocked to Metro like moths to a low-lit price board, gleefully avoiding the financial sting of its notorious neighbour, Reddy Express (Shell), where fuel is routinely 40 to 50 cents dearer and the air smells faintly of regret and credit card debt.

With the Jannali icon closing its doors, residents say they’re left with few bleak options. Pay Reddy’s ransom. Cross a bridge into non-Shire territory (unthinkable). Or finally embrace e-scooters and risk being tackled by police for unapproved helmet attachments.

“People are talking about driving to Padstow or even… Kogarah,” whispered Tracey from Bonnet Bay, clutching her Liberty Rewards card like a relic from a better time. “We’re not just losing a servo—we’re losing a cornerstone of local resilience.”

A candlelight vigil is planned for Friday night, featuring power ballads, discounted paper towels, and a ceremonial tipping of the final drop of E10.

The Sutherland Shire Gazette understands Council is considering listing the site as “emotionally significant”, with early petitions calling for a commemorative plaque, a mural of low fuel prices, or at the very least, one last pallet of budget laundry detergent.

As for Reddy Express? They’re reportedly preparing for a new wave of unwilling customers by adding a second kidney donation option at the EFTPOS terminal.

LATE EDITS: The Gazette thanks the current owners of Metro Petroleum Jannali for their years of service to the local community. The on-site mechanics TG Automotive will be relocating to 30 Kareena Rd Miranda, where they'll continue offering their trusted service - now with a courtesy car available for customers.

Metro fuel jannali