Joel Wakely worked with and raced with cars almost his entire life, owning several significant and some very rare models. He knew cars like he knew the back of his hand, and networked with many other passionate car lovers like himself. In 1958 Joel started his first business venture: a new BP service station. It was here he got involved in a racing team, modifying Holden 48-215s for the track. After working for Bob Jane-T Mart for 7 years, he started a 30-year career in the car rental industry with Avis Rent-a-Car Australia and later Dollar Rent-a-Car. After a short retirement, Joel’s passion for cars led him to start another new business: Avant-Garde Detailing, specialising in the restoration and detailing of prestige and unique vehicles. After a second retirement Joel put his talents to use in writing and self-publishing 'Legends of the 48-215' before joining Woodslane Press for six more books. Joel passed away in early 2025.
