This fresh beauty is a fair-dinkum backyard build, largely crafted by Jo’s skilled hubby, Sean.

First published in the July 2026 issue of Street Machine

What initially ignited your revhead flame, Jo?

I definitely became a revhead the day I met my husband Sean, when I was 17 years old. He was the first person I’d met who was into cars, and most of our dates were at car shows or the drags. Later I learnt how to service Sean’s HQ – new plugs and points; adjust the timing; oil change. I loved doing it!

What’s the story behind your sweet HZ?

I’ve always loved Tonners, especially HQs. So, when we came across a pair of Tonners for sale, it was a huge ‘Yes’ from me! Both were HZ six-cylinder cars with the usual dents and rust. We used parts from each car, and also added the HQ front end, including the Premier nosecone, which I love. Overall, I wanted my car to be low and loud, with lots of black and chrome.

How long did the build take?

For five years, we worked weekends on it, though towards the end, we spent many nights together out in the shed. We’re just a normal family who doesn’t have big bucks to spend on cars, but Sean’s self-taught ability meant he could do 90 per cent of the build and give me the car I’ve wanted for many years. Sean is a perfectionist, and he really did an awesome job! 

Great colour!

Originally, I wanted Gunmetal Grey, and I still love that colour, but I’m happy I went with the Orchid Metallic, as you don’t see it much anymore, especially on a Tonner. It’s finished with the early Sandman decals, which is a cool feature and tones down the colour. Sean designed and built the custom tray topped with varnished merbau. The interior has the black that I wanted, with the classic Houndstooth seats, and I added the GTS dashboard, steering wheel and rims, as I’d love a GTS but couldn’t afford one. 

Is that a thongslapper under the bonnet?

Yeah, a Holden 253 with a mild cam and custom stainless exhaust, backed by a Trimatic and 10-bolt LSD rear. We turned her over for the first time at 11pm on a Friday night; the moment I heard her fire up brought tears to my eyes. And she was very loud – we expected the police to come and tell us to shut her down! My first drive was a pinch-myself moment – after all that time and effort, to drive it was unreal. And I love driving my HZ – I have Bluetooth stereo, but I don’t use it, as I love hearing the engine. 

Now your Tonner is finished, what have you been up to?

It’s great when Sean and I head out cruising together in my HZ and his EH, often with a group of like-minded friends. My only plans are to keep driving her and attending car meets and shows; people always comment on the tray and the colour. And now my two young grandchildren call it “Nana’s cool car!”

Girls — wanna be famous? Become an Iron Maiden! Email car details, pics (2MB+) and contact deets to gday@streetmachine.com.au. You and your ride could appear in the mag!