After an incredible journey spanning over four decades, the Vignes family is bidding a heartfelt farewell to their cherished service station on Sawtell Road at Boambee Creek. This family-owned station, a beacon of our community for 41 years, will see its final day under the Vignes’ name on Friday, May 24. The new owners will open for business the very next Monday, marking a new chapter in the station’s history.
The station has not only become a local icon but also a testament to the power of community. Cherished for its exceptional customer service, this is a legacy of the late John Vignes’ guiding principle: “Look after the community, and they will look after you.” This philosophy translated into a unique service model where attendants personally handle all customer needs right at the car window—from fueling up to checking the oil and washing the windscreen.
Dwayne Vignes, John and Shirley’s son, attributes the station’s enduring success to this personal touch. “Our customers love this. Many of them have never even filled their own tanks,” he shares with pride.
Located near Boambee Bay Resort, the station is a pleasant surprise for many tourists, who are delighted by the attentive service. However, the local patrons truly bring joy to the Vignes family, reinforcing John’s motto daily.
As Shirley Vignes approaches her 85th birthday, she contemplates a quieter life, though she remains a vibrant presence at the station daily. “You wouldn’t guess she’s 85,” Dwayne remarks. “Her interactions with our community keep her spirited and lively.”
The Vignes’ journey began when John and Shirley moved from Sydney to Coffs Harbour in 1982. After a brief stint managing a local reserve, they took over the service station in 1983. Over the years, all the Vignes children have lent a hand in its operation, making it a true family affair.
Following John’s passing in 2012, Dwayne and his wife Anne took over management. The community’s outpouring of support, including a poignant tribute of car horns on the day of John’s funeral, deeply touched the family.
Looking ahead, the station will be in the hands of Adam and Jodi Hudson, whom Dwayne believes are a perfect match for both the business and the community. “If we could have chosen successors, it would have been the Hudsons,” Dwayne says confidently.
The Vignes family extends their deepest gratitude to the community for four decades of wonderful memories and steadfast support.
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