During his visit to Brisbane, Fletch had the opportunity to visit a replica of Elvis Presley's famous home, Graceland, created and owned by a devoted fan named Greg Dower. Greg's passion for Elvis began in 2000 when he visited Graceland during his first trip to the US with his partner. Inspired by what he saw, Greg created a replica of the home in Australia, including the cars that Elvis owned.
Greg is a man with many talents. He is a podiatrist by profession, but he also leads a Rockabilly band called the Blue Cats. Additionally, he is skilled in body fabrication on cars and is the proud owner of a distillery.
Having visited Memphis 9-10 times, Greg has become well-versed in Elvis's life and his love for cars. Which motivated him to acquire the same models, Greg takes Fletch to his workshop to look at some replica cars featured in Elvis's life.
One of the cars that caught Fletch's attention was the restoration project: a Valiant Safari Wagon. It took Greg two years to complete this project, which showcases his fabrication skills. A retired panel beater friend ably assisted him, and together they replaced every panel of the car. The current slant six engine will be replaced with a new 318 V8 or possibly a 360, as per Fletch's recommendation.
Greg’s Elvis replica collection includes a 1969 Cadillac Eldorado 472 Front-wheel Drive. He also shared the story of how Elvis's original 1968 Eldorado was sold on eBay for US$272,000 after returning to the US from Australia.
The collection also features a 1954 Cadillac Fleetwood, Elvis's first car. Greg had this one painted pink, just like Elvis. The car came to a tragic end when Elvis drove it with the footbrake on; causing it to catch fire and burn to the ground. Greg is currently restoring a 1955 Fleetwood, also painted pink which he hopes to finish in time for his daughter's wedding in May 2024.
Among all the US models, there is an unexpected British model in his collection: a 1960 MG A. This car was featured in the Movie Blue Hawaii' and is thought to be part of the British manufacturer's plan to enter the US market. Another car reported to be the last Elvis Presley ever drove was a 1975 Stutz, with only 400 ever made. This one was owned by Sammy Davis Junior, one of the five cars he owned. The replicas continue with a 1956 Lincoln Continental, a 1978 Seville, a replica of the last car Elvis ever purchased, and a 1965 Honda Dream 350cc motorcycle.
The 1956 Cadillac 365 V8 featured in the recent Baz Loman 'ELVIS' movie is a fitting finale to this extensive museum tribute. The Cadillac underwent extensive restoration with no expense spared. It looks stunning with new paintwork, new chrome, a continental kit, new windows and carpets - the complete works.
