Getting a break in the motorsport industry often hinges on connections as much as knowledge. Many spectators in the grandstand dream of picking up the microphone, eager to entertain with their witty commentary and in-depth knowledge of cars and drivers. Yet, there are only a few dozen motorsport commentators in Australia, and only a handful of them are women. Girls Torque – Australian Women in Motorsport, led by commentator Bridget Bell, is opening doors to the commentary tower, providing opportunities for more women to enter the field and pursue a career in motorsport media.
The competition entries have closed, and we’re excited to announce that Karen Bawden has been selected as the winner. Karen will be shadowing Deputy President and Red CentreNATS commentator Lara Wilde during the September long weekend in Alice Springs. This all-access, three-day experience at Red CentreNATS, one of Australia’s premier motorsport events, offers Karen an exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunity.
Karen, who hails from Townsville in North Queensland, is well-versed in the motorsport world. She has been featured in Street Machine magazine and competes on drag strips along the East Coast in her Valiant hardtop. “This opportunity will allow me to see how the best in the business run an event, so I can take those lessons home to my local DriveIt facility in Townsville and contribute to our car-loving community,” said Karen.
During the long weekend, Karen will also be taking over the Girls Torque social media platforms, offering followers an insider’s view of all the action at Red CentreNATS. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with every moment!
This initiative is made possible through the support of the event organisers. Adrian Hodgson, the media manager, expressed his support for the programme, noting that many of the team members managing SUMMERNATS, Rockynats, and Red CentreNATS are women. “We are proactive in supporting more women to enter the industry,” he said, applauding the vision of Girls Torque.
“It’s incredibly exciting to witness the resurgence of Girls Torque,” said Bridget Bell, President of Girls Torque. “In motorsport media, diverse voices bring valuable perspectives and lived experiences that enrich the sport for everyone. By showcasing different viewpoints, we can broaden the appeal of motorsports, reaching a wider audience, including sub-groups and minority communities such as women and girls, who contribute fresh enthusiasm and passion to the track.
I want to recognise the dedicated efforts of Girls Torque board members Lara Wilde and Katie Thompson, whose hard work has been instrumental in making this event a reality. Their commitment to fostering inclusivity within motorsport is a benefit to us all.
Finally, my deepest appreciation goes to Summernats and Red CentreNATS for their support in creating this opportunity. Their embrace of a more inclusive vision ensures the continued growth and excitement of the sports we all love.”
Bridget Bell is a seasoned motorsport media professional and a skilled mechanic, with over a decade of experience in On-Air Hosting, Event Hosting, Television Presenting and Commentating. Passionate about supporting women in both the industry and motorsport, Bridget volunteers as a mentor and actively champions female representation.
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