International Women's Day: Celebrating The Women Behind Summernats

International Women’s Day: Celebrating The Women Behind Summernats

By: Summernats

Our events aren’t just about the builds. They’re about the people who show up year after year with their cars, their families, their mates and their stories.

Today, we’re recognising the women who are part of the action across all our events.

If you’ve ever turned a spanner.

If you’ve ever stood on the start line.

If you’ve ever queued at the gates at 6am.

If you’ve ever crewed in 40-degree heat.

If you’ve ever supported a build that’s taken years.

Or simply love the smell of burnt rubber.

Thank you for everything you do for the scene and for helping raise the next generation of revheads.

Here’s just some of the incredible women behind the scenes of our events.

ASHLEIGH WILSON

Ash has turned her love of cars and cameras into a career, shooting and writing for Street Machine across Queensland and beyond. From burnout pads to drag strips, she’s covered the culture from every angle.

“There are no doors closed to you. If you’ve got the drive, an exhilarating world awaits you.”

BRIT KILBY

Brit Kilby is a driving force behind the HAMMERTIME operation, hands-on with the crew and fully embedded in every pass the team makes. Working alongside her husband Brad, she represents the strength, skill and commitment that keeps race teams moving forward.

“The thrill isn’t gender-biased. If you can drive it, you can do it.”

CHRISTINA VITHOULKAS

As Australia’s first paraplegic drifter, Christina isn’t stepping into competition to be defined by her limitations. She’s been breaking barriers since day one with her beast.

“My advice is to get out there before you’re ready. Being scared is normal. What’s not normal is letting fear or other people’s opinions decide how you live.”

JUDITH MENSO

Judith and her Elite LX Torana debuted at Rockynats and have collected serious silverware over the past four years. Built with muscle car toughness and her own perspective woven through it, the Torana isn’t just for show - she drove it daily for years and still lives for the on-track events.

“My car, to me, represents a creation from a woman’s perspective, with muscle car toughness, female practicality and character in mind.”

KAYLENE DI BELLA

Behind the wheel of her Elite Commodore, Kaylene is on a mission that goes beyond just winning. Whether it's show judging or drag racing, she consistently demonstrates that passion and discipline have a place at every starting line.

“You’re capable, you’re strong, and the sport needs more women fearless enough to go for it.”

KYLIE PERRY

From building a Meguiar’s Superstars winner to turning out multiple high-end builds since, Kylie’s work speaks for itself. She’s passionate about making sure the next generation sees that this community is welcoming, encouraging and built on backing each other.

“Women have a lot to contribute, often with a different perspective or focus, which is a great thing. It is a supportive community, so don't be afraid to jump in.”

LARA WILDE

Lara lives and breathes the scene - contracting across ‘Nats events, working with Street Machine and getting hands-on wherever she can. After driving her Caddy all the way from Cairns to Summernats, she made it clear that she’s in it for the long haul.

“I do it because I love cars and car people. Find your allies, get on with the work, and then reach back and help the next generation of women join you.”

MEL GOW

From debuting her Datsun at Street Machine Summernats 38 to qualifying for Meguiar’s Superstars at MotorEx, Mel’s build sits firmly in elite company. Add a Top Interior win, and it’s clear she builds to a standard, not a trend.

“SEND IT!”

MERCURY LIEN

As a proud motorsport and 'Nats supporter, Mercury arrives ready to compete and champion the culture she believes in. For her, being a woman in motorsport is about demonstrating that skill, courage and determination are what truly count, regardless of gender.

“You don’t need an invitation or the perfect build. Start now. Motorsport rewards action, passion, and persistence far more than perfection.”

SARAH PARNELL

Sarah is a true dynamo in the world of motorsport. From her time volunteering in Northern Queensland to her vital role with the Summernats team, she’s a shining example that motorsport is about more than speed - it’s about the dedicated people who show up and give it their all.

“It was incredible working with such a great crew. Everyone worked hard, and we were looked after every step of the way.”

International Women’s Day: Celebrating The Women Behind Summernats

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