Police Shut Down Free Fuel Giveaway After Traffic Chaos Erupts in Melbourne’s West
Police were forced to shut down a massive free fuel promotion in Melbourne’s west today, April 3, 2026, after thousands of motorists caused a complete gridlock in Truganina.
The $100,000 giveaway, organized by Billy Beasley of the rewards club RS Reward, took place at the Liberty petrol station on Leakes Road. The event, intended as a Good Friday surprise for struggling families, offered up to $200 of free fuel per vehicle. However, the promotion was overwhelmed almost immediately.
According to Victoria Police, officers arrived at the scene around 7:30 am to find Leakes Road and surrounding streets completely blocked by a “mad dash” for fuel. Aerial footage from 9News showed queues stretching for blocks, with some drivers reportedly waiting since 4:00 am.
Police Intervene as Crowds Grow
The promotion officially launched at 10:00 am, but safety concerns forced an early intervention. A Victoria Police spokesperson confirmed that “police established several hazards due to the increased traffic” and worked with organizers to terminate the live pumps for the safety of the public and emergency access routes.
In a video shared on Instagram, organizer Billy Beasley admitted the turnout was “crazy” and far exceeded expectations.
At its peak, approximately 1,000 vehicles were estimated to be in the immediate vicinity, causing some cars to actually run out of fuel while idling in the queue.
Vouchers Issued After Cancellation
To manage the disappointed crowds, organizers shifted to a voucher-based system.
We’ve worked with police and established an alternative way to run the promotion, which is in the form of vouchers that can be used later, Beasley said.
The chaos comes at a critical time for Victorian motorists. With petrol prices approaching $3.00 per litre due to global supply shocks, the state government has already made all public transport free for the month of April to alleviate pressure on fuel demand.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE : Traffic trouble after $100,000 free fuel giveaway
