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Trafalgar Holden Museum - Tribute to Founder Neil Joiner: Classic Restos - Series 56

By Shannons - Published on 26 July 2024

Fletch travels to the Highlands Hotel in Mittagong, NSW, for a ‘Front Bar’ style tribute to Neil Joiner, a remarkable Australian and Holden legend who recently passed away. Neil, the founder of the Trafalgar Holden Museum, was a true gentleman with an unparalleled passion for Holden and Australian Manufacturing.
 
Classic Restos visited Neil at the Trafalgar Holden Museum many times, always receiving a warm welcome and access to all areas while showcasing one of the best Holden Museums in the country. Fletch reflects on the episodes that featured the Trafalgar Holden Museum and his time with Neil.

Neil's profound knowledge of Holden's history was outstanding. The museum reflects the complete history from its origins as a saddlery company to a car body builder for numerous manufacturers and then a car manufacturer in its own right. The museum also houses an exclusive prototype of the Torana from 2004, which, despite never going into production due to concerns about competing with Commodore sales during the GFC, was a futuristic-looking car for its time.

The museum features a wide range of Holden models, with a special section dedicated to Peter Brock and his iconic vehicles, including the renowned Peter's Austin A7 Paddock bomb, '74 LH Torana, Austin A30 and a remarkable collection of Peter Brock memorabilia.

Fletch fondly reminisces one of his first visits to the Trafalgar Holden Museum, specifically two notable vehicles, a 1969 HT Monaro 253 V8 and an exceptionally rare 1957 FJ Holden Wagon, one of only three known to exist.

Neil Joiner and his devoted team of volunteers have undeniably created an enduring legacy. The Trafalgar Holden Museum is indeed a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Holden's rich history.