A 25-year-old man from Geelong, in Victoria, who attempted to rob a Mount Gambier service station earlier this year, has been sentenced to more than two years in prison.

Christopher Lee Hrkac had pleaded guilty to committing theft using force.

In March, Hrkac tried to hold up a Commercial Street West service station, lying to the attendant that he was carrying a knife.

Last week, Hrkac broke down in tears in the District Court while reading a letter apologising to the victim.

He said he was sincerely sorry and wanted to get his life back on track.

In sentencing, Judge Gordon Barrett said Hrkac had a drug dependency and mental health issues.

He was sentenced to two years, one month and two weeks in prison, with a non-parole period of nine months.

Hrkac will be eligible for parole soon after Christmas this year.