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Subsequent Event - Proposed Acquisition of the Propane Operations of Energy Transfer Partners (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 17, 2011 Customers	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2010	Sep. 30, 2009	Sep. 30, 2008
Subsequent Event - Proposed Acquisition of the Propane Operations of Energy Transfer Partners (Textuals) [Abstract]
Cash included in the acquisition of propane operations					$ 32,000
Debt included in the acquisition of propane operations		9,487	8,956	3,786
Increase of Credit Agreement	500,000
Number of retail propane customers	1
Acquisition
Subsequent Event - Proposed Acquisition of the Propane Operations of Energy Transfer Partners (Textuals) [Abstract]
Total consideration included in the acquisition of propane operations	2,900,000
Cash included in the acquisition of propane operations	1,500,000
Common units included in the acquisition of propane operations	1,300,000
Debt included in the acquisition of propane operations	71,000
Delivery of gallons to retail propane customers	500,000,000
Number of states included in the propane operations	41
Payment of termination fee	$ 125,000