FARMERS will get their fuel from further afield after the the last major fuel depot on the Southern Downs shuts up shop today.

Petroleum giant United Petroleum, has closed its depot in Allora and will be transporting fuel from Toowoomba.

United Petroleum executive general manager Tim Kehoe said the company was "absolutely committed" to the Allora and Warwick region, despite the move.

Mr Kehoe said the move would allow United Petroleum to deliver a "better service" to bulk fuel buyers by increasing the number of local sales staff.

But Goomburra grain and cattle farmer Neil Phelan said he couldn't see how the company could deliver a better service by closing its local depot.

"It's always a shame when local businesses close down in a town and I have been disappointed with the support they have given the local community and local organisations," Mr Phelan said.

The closure marks the end of an era when fuel was delivered from small bases around the region.

'Glenmar Fuels' serviced a large area from Allora right to northern New South Wales.

But Mr Phelan said the depot appeared to have lost business since United Fuels took over from family owners two years ago.

Former Allora bulk fuel trader Glen Hentschel said the decline in regional depots was an issue of financial viability.

"It is much more cost effective to deliver to this area directly from terminals in Brisbane," Mr Hentschel said.

But farmers in the Southern Downs still valued a 'personal' touch according to Mr Phelan.

"You like to know who you are dealing with," he said. 　

Killarney Co-op also provides some bulk fuel services.

Editor's note: after publication, United contacted the Daily News and advised the depot remains open and continues to service the region. The closure is of the administration office only.