The ongoing war in the Middle East has continued to impact fuel prices and supply, but there was some good news this week in the form of cuts to the fuel excise and reducing the heavy vehicle road user charge. But, it remains front of mind for many Australians, with changes to travel plans impacting tourism and day to day life.

The sound of regional Australia. News and analysis from the ABC's network of regional reporters.

Global fuel shocks are having a devastating impact on regional communities.   

Tourists bussed out of Exmouth on the Ningaloo coast as cleanup underway after Cyclone Narelle  

Police have shot dead fugitive gunman Dezi Freeman following a three-hour stand-off in Victoria's north-east. 

For people in the country, rampant petrol prices and supply issues caused by the war in the Middle East have been compounded by Cyclone Narelle which has hit the northern part of Australia. While there's some relief in sight in the form of tankers on their way, remote communities continue to worry about long term supply of diesel which supply critical generators. Meanwhile, the fuel crisis is prompting some to consider EVs. 

Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle has intensified to a category four system and remains off the northern WA coastline where it could strengthen further threatening coastal communities.

The sound of regional Australia. News and analysis from the ABC's network of regional reporters.

The sound of regional Australia. News and analysis from the ABC's network of regional reporters.

As war in the Middle East continues fuel price hikes are being felt everywhere - including the tourism sector with Easter around the corner. One Gold Coast couple has cancelled their caravan holiday plans while tourism operators are starting to wonder when they may have to curtail trips.