Tha Vaal Triangle took a step into the future when the brand new Astron Energy Stefanopark filling station and convenience centre were officially introduced to local and national dignitaries as well as the media in Vanderbijlpark last week.

Astron Energy (previously known as Caltex) has joined forces with a local property developer to erect this new state of the art filling station with convenience store facilities along the R42 in the Stefanopark area. It is one of the first sites in South Africa to proudly display the new distinctive orange and purple colours and logo, and will supply discerning motorists with high quality SABS approved Astron Energy fuels and oils, facilities for the accurate inflation of tyres and premium service from their well trained staff.

This exciting new development will be a game changer and a huge benefit for all motorists travelling this route for work or leisure. While a portion of the R42 was being upgraded during the last 18 months, travellers would have witnessed a new traffic interchange and new buildings emerging, in spite of difficult financial times. The brand new filling station services local residents as well as motorists travelling west on the R42 towards North West via Potchefstroom and Parys/Bloemfontein. Access to fill up at Astron Energy Stefanopark is safe and easy to navigate thanks to the commissioning of a new traffic light at the R42 interchange, thus creating a safe, controlled entrance and exit onto the main road. The interchange forms part of the bigger picture of the area, where the local council envisages a connection with William Nichol Road, then joining into Rossini Boulevard.

At the official introduction of the new Astron Energy hub, well-known local businessman and developer Mr Wolfgang Raschke thanked all the roleplayers who contributed in making this dream a reality. He said it was especially challenging to execute all the plans during the Covid lockdown but eventually everything was done within budget and completed in the expected time frame. “This is a shining example of what can be done with the use of your imagination,” he said.

Mr Fumani Khosa, Regional Sales Manager (Inland Retail) of Astron Energy, commended the owners of the new filling station hub with the quality outcome and for setting such a high bar.

* Astron Energy Stefanopark also proudly introduced the Route 42 Convenience Store to cater for all motorists’ refreshment needs. In addition to the normal items on offer at these type of establishments, Route 42’s freshly made pre-packed meals, sandwiches, garlic breads, malva puddings, Turbo Crystal Ice, braai consumables and much more will be on offer, as well as a coffee counter with muffins and an assortment of pies for the early bird or hasty traveller. Turning off at the R42 junction and opposite the new Astron Energy Stefanopark is an additional opportunity for locals and travellers to do convenient one-stop shopping by visiting the complex housing Trinkers Liquor Store, renowned for keeping their products cold for customers’ immediate enjoyment. Trinkers also caters for all beverage needs for special occasions such as family festivities, weddings, work functions and year-end parties. The friendly staff will be able to provide quotations ahead of your event, keeping all your wishes in mind for a great day.

The newly established “Bearded Pepper Pizza”, located adjacent to the liquor store, has been receiving rave reviews from customers for their freshly made woodfire-oven pizzas. If you are in the mood for hot chilly sauces, this is the place to visit to experience the variety on offer, together with home-made marmalades, rusks and various other home-made produce.

Mr Thuso Nkala is the co-owner and friendly manager at Astron Energy Stefanopark. Everyone is invited to pop in and experience the Astron Energy service and hospitality!

Photography by Chilli PicNic except where otherwise mentioned.

Everyone is invited to Astron Energy Stefanopark’s official opening on Saturday, September 24. There will be lots of give-aways, fun activities and a veteran car show. IFM’s outside broadcasting unit will provide lively music. Come hang out and enjoy the day!

 

The owners of the new filling station Thuso Nkala and Wolfgang Raschke (far left and far right), with representatives of Astron Energy SA: Vuvu Barnes ( Sales Manager), Trinisha Lutchmiah (New Business Specialist), Fumani Khosa (Regional Sales Manager), and Brent Graham at the back.

Owners Wolfgang Raschke and Thuso Nkala (3rd and 4th from right) with the contractors Peet de Beer (PC Pump & Tank), Andre Voster (PC Pump & Tank), Carlos Malhou (VRM Attorneys), Petrus de Kock (Trinamics) and Dirk Bezuidenhout (Squad Services).

Mr Sybrand Smit, Proportional Councillor for the smallholdings area with two of the staff members.

Councillor Nkosinath Ndwande of Emfuleni’s Ward 7, flanked by the owners, was among the dignitaries at the Grand Opening. (Photo provided by Astron Energy)

Astron Energy Stefanopark’s management team.

***********************************************************************************************************************