PETROL prices forced many families to seek a closer venue for their Easter holidays as the cost of refuelling rose over the weekend.

"It's very hard for many people going on holiday," said Currumbin resident Helen Cameron.

"Luckily I don't have to travel far.

"But for people who work far from home, it must be very tough financially."

One service station owner has shown some compassion for his customers.

Ron Chambers at Matilda Blue, Currumbin Waters, said he wants to help ease the petrol squeeze for customers.

"We are getting customers to leave us their mobile phone numbers," he said.

"We then send them a text 24 hours before the price rises to give them time to fill up.

"It's the least we can do.

"There's nothing worse than seeing prices in the morning, then waiting till the afternoon to fill up just to find they have risen suddenly."

Mr Chambers said he tries to give customers the "heads up" when he sees his opposition raise petrol prices.

Customer Geoff Steel said he thought it was a "great idea."

"It's good to see a business person show some thought for customers," he said.

"Petrol prices can put a dampener on your holiday, especially if you are travelling a long way."

Staff member at Matilda Blue Anthony Jones said he people were giving him positive feedback on the texting strategy.

"You have to help people when things are tough," he said.

"And people really appreciate it."