Tayla Purves on – Voices of the Industry

What Women in Motoring Are Saying About Progress and Challenges

The motor industry is cutthroat, high-pressure, and still largely male-dominated.

These are three key phrases often associated with the industry—whether in automotive or motorsports. The expectation that remains is that it’s hard work, all-consuming, and, at times, unwelcoming.

But the voices shaping the industry today are increasingly female, and at Girls Torque, we’re proud to amplify them this International Women’s Day.

Charlie Barlow: The Power of Perspective in Motorsport

One of those voices is Charlie Barlow, Motorsport Australia’s Development Manager.

Barlow has become an exceptional role model for young women entering the motorsport industry, particularly in media.

There’s a preconceived notion that being female is a disadvantage in motorsports, but what’s not widely discussed is how it can be an advantage.

“Personally, in my experience, being a female has been an advantage for me.

I’ve always had supportive men around me when working in automotive who valued my perspective and opinion on how women interact with cars,” Barlow said.

The idea that men in the industry are unwelcoming is often a misconception. Many are actually the loudest supportersof women in the field.

That said, challenges remain.

Women in motorsport and automotive still face outdated biases, including the common misogynistic belief that they lack mechanical knowledge or the capacity to understand cars.

“I believe people are a lot more aware of these issues now, and they’re more self-aware too. Both men and women in leadership roles want to open more doors for women.

Working in a male-dominated field is challenging—you will come up against the old boys’ club. My advice? Focus on the value you bring, the insights they might be missing, and remember your strengths,” Barlow continued.

Despite the challenges, the automotive industry is evolving. It can sometimes feel tough and isolating, but for those eager to learn, it’s also welcoming, supportive, and full of opportunity.

Many within the industry are deeply passionate about their work—when you love what you do, it never really feels like work.

“I worked in PR & Media, which is very different from being on the tools or working in a dealership.

I felt nurtured and supported from day one. That’s a credit to the team I worked with, many of whom are still there kicking huge goals,” Barlow said.

Today, women are making strides in all areas of the industry—whether as mechanics, presenters, or business owners.

“There are so many more women now than when I started—which is fantastic. And more women with children too, which I think is just as important.

It’s not easy, and there are limited roles in Australia, but use that as fuel to drive toward your dreams,” Barlow encourages.

Sharine “Spanner” Milne: Paving the Way in Motorcycle Mechanics

Another incredible woman making an impact is Sharine Milne, better known as Spanner—a motorcycle workshop owner, certified automotive enthusiast, and proud Indigenous woman.

She’s paving the way for women in mechanical trades, proving that women belong in this space—whether others like it or not.

“I was the only one to finish the entire course out of a class of 15—and I was the only girl,” Milne said.

Her impressive career in the Northern Territory has led to major achievements, including owning her own mechanical shop, RHD Classic Supplies & Services.

“In nine years, I went from a pre-vocational student to the owner.

I’ve now owned the shop for 15 years,” Milne said.

It’s no secret that the automotive industry has long been a boys’ club, and this extends to the workshop scene, where sexism comes not just from employers but from customers too.

“When it comes to gender in motorcycles, it’s even worse than in cars.”

While some areas of the automotive industry have embraced diversity and inclusion, others lag behind.

“There’s always going to be female-specific challenges.

The biggest problem is still acceptance across the board,” Spanner shared.

Despite the progress made, there’s still a long way to go before women in the trades sector receive fair treatment.

“I was one of five female mechanics in North Queensland. Now, I’m one of 55 mechanics in Townsville across small engines, motorcycles, cars, heavy diesels, and trucks.

That’s growth—but there’s still a long road ahead,” Spanner proudly confirmed.

Even with positive change, many women still face pushback. But Spanner has no time for doubters.

“If someone wants to sit there and make you cry, think about everything you’ve achieved—and laugh.”

“Whatever your skillset—whether it’s a journeyman trade or a formal qualification—it all counts. Every bit of knowledge matters,” she encourages.

The Road Ahead

The voices of women in motoring are growing louder, stronger, and more determined than ever.

From Charlie Barlow shaping the future of motorsport to Sharine Milne challenging outdated norms in motorcycle mechanics, women are proving they belong in every corner of the industry.

Yes, challenges still exist. Biases, misconceptions, and barriers remain. But the momentum toward change is real—and it’s only getting stronger.

So, to the next generation of women stepping into motorsport and automotive:

Keep pushing. Keep breaking barriers. Keep proving them wrong.

Because the future of this industry isn’t just male—it’s female too.

#YeahTheGirls 🚗💨