The 80-year-old spends hours each day in his hobby room, surrounded by pictures of his favourite horses and jockeys, while listening to country music.

Mr Elliott, born in the Victorian country town of Charlton, had several horses until he moved to Geelong at the age of 22.

Married to Ellen, who he met via a dating agency 26 years ago, Mr Elliott is a passionate horse lover but never puts a bet on them.

"He is in his own little world and the key to our successful marriage is that I give him space," Mrs Elliott said.

Mr Elliott, who was in a coma for six weeks after falling off a horse in 1952, said his brother had always been interested in vintage cars, but he loved the gallopers.

"When I was born my mother put me in a buggy basket on the horse and drove me home.

"But when I retired at the age of 65, I started putting frames up.

"It is better than to be drinking beer or spending money on gambling; I just love the horses."