Motoring

Best-selling Holden Gemini gets a makeover

Mar 16, 2017

Gerry Griffiths with the restored Gemini.

Jenny and Gerry Griffiths are sharing the restoration story of their 1980 TE Holden Gemini.

The Starts Art 60 readers bought the popular compact four door about four years ago as a restoration project, following in Jenny’s brother’s footsteps after he had done up their dad’s old Gemini.

Cars and restoration have been a common theme for Jenny and Gerry throughout their lives. Gerry, aged 65 started his apprenticeship when he was young as a motor trimmer, then he worked for his brother selling cars on Parramatta Rd, Burwood. After that Gerry went out on his own back to motor trimming before taking on his current career as a painter, something he has been doing for the past 30 years. Jenny, aged 61, works with Peter, refurbishing the interiors of units in a retirement village in New South Wales.

What have you done to it?

We have taken out and repaired a bit of rust in the boot and replaced one front mud guard, due to rust. It has also had a quick spray job on the outside to tidy it up.

The 1980 TE Holden Gemini during its restoration.

How much work goes into its upkeep?

Not much goes into the upkeep as it is always garaged, so just your general services

Do you know the history of this car?

We are the third owners bought, from the second owner who had the car from three years old.

The Gemini has been restored to its former glory.

What unique/special features does it have?

The only unique special features are the original kilometres and the black Aunger sun shade on the back window.

 What was your first car?

Jenny’s first car was a 1963 EJ holden while Gerrys was a 1959/60 Fc holden.

What is your favourite car?

Definitely Holdens or Izuzu four-wheel-drive.

Why are you interested in cars?

It’s in the blood right through my family.

Part of the restoration work that was required.

    If you do your own restoration work, what are the challenges and highlights?

Take your time and do it properly, and you will be happy with the final outcome.

    Do you have any early memories of cars or driving that you would like to share?

Jenny remembers driving her EJ and always running out of petrol. The couple also used to buy and sell LC and LJ Holden Torana’s. They would bring them home, detail them and sometimes Gerry would put in a new set of carpets and fix any seat repairs.