This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Jasmine, a second-year automotive refinishing apprentice at Holden Hill Crash Repairs. Alongside her growing career in the industry, she shares a deep connection with a car that has been part of her family’s journey for nearly 20 years – her dad’s 1985 Holden VK Commodore Berlina.
“This car was my dad’s daily driver for a long time. Over the years, he’s owned several VK models, each with different motors and transmissions. But this one is special to him. After it sat off the road for a while due to an electrical issue, we worked on it together to bring it back to life.”
The car was resprayed a few years ago in its original colour. It used to be two-tone, but now it’s all one colour, which Jasmine loves. “It’s sitting on centre lines with semi-slick tyres on the rear. While the engine isn’t impressive just yet, Dad and I dream of building something faster and louder in the future – maybe a classic 308 V8 engine or an entirely unique setup that no one has attempted before.”
One of her personal goals is to respray the car herself one day. “Imagine Dad pulling up to a car meet and someone complimenting the paint. He’d be able to say, ‘Oh, my daughter did that!’ That’s the dream.”
Her dad is a regular at car meets, taking the VK out nearly every weekend. “I feel really lucky because he lets me drive it whenever I want. I even got to drive it on my learner’s permit – it was the most exciting thing ever. After school, I’d hop in, put my L plates on, and Dad would let me drive home.”
“One night, after a car meet, we got home, and as we pulled into the driveway, he looked at me and said, ‘You want to take it for a spin? You love this car. Just bring it back in 45 minutes.’”
Jasmine didn’t waste a second. She timed her drive, soaking in every moment. Since then, her dad has continued to hand over the keys, knowing she cherishes the car just as much as he does.
“My dad is my number one supporter, and this car is something special we share. It’s not just about the car – it’s the memories and the bond we’re building along the way.”
