A rare and cherished 1972 Holden Torana GTR XU-1 has been stolen from Melbourne, prompting a desperate search to fulfill the last wish of a terminally ill woman. The vehicle, a vibrant green muscle car, was taken in broad daylight from Hawthorn this week, and its theft has quickly galvanized the local car community.
A Family’s Last Request
The Torana was inherited by Peter Scrivener after his father’s death eight years ago and carries profound sentimental value. Just days before the theft, Scrivener’s mother received a devastating diagnosis of inoperable cancer. Her final request, according to 9News, is to experience one last drive in the beloved Holden.
“She just wants to hear it and smell it…just sit there and talk about when she was in it with my dad.” – Peter Scrivener
The car isn’t just metal and an engine; it’s a time machine for this family, representing shared memories and a connection to a lost loved one. The urgency isn’t about money or status; it’s about granting a dying woman peace in her final days.
The Theft and Current Search
The Torana was last seen with distinctive Tanuki Tattoo stickers on the rear quarter glass and, notably, a baby seat in the back. CCTV footage captured the thief—a man estimated to be in his 40s, wearing a white T-shirt, khaki shorts, and a black baseball cap. He also has a visible tattoo on his left bicep. The thief removed the club permit plates (97622H) shortly after stealing the car, and it was reportedly sighted in Lower Templestowe.
Why This Matters
The Torana GTR XU-1 is an iconic Australian car, designed to compete with and beat V8 Fords on the racetrack. This model’s 3.3-liter inline-six engine produced a robust 142kW and 272Nm, making it a legend in Australian motorsport.
However, the case highlights a broader issue: car theft is rarely just about the vehicle itself. In this instance, the stolen Torana represents irreplaceable emotional value. The car community’s immediate response underscores how much these classics mean to those who love them.
Seeking Help
Peter Scrivener is offering a $5000 reward for the safe return of the Holden Torana. Anyone with information or sightings is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. The hope is that someone will come forward, not for the money, but to help a family say goodbye in the way that matters most.
The stolen Torana represents more than just a classic car—it’s a symbol of love, loss, and a final, desperate wish. Returning it is not just about recovering property; it’s about restoring dignity and peace to a family facing unimaginable grief.
