In the 1960s, English motocross pioneer Jill Savage competed down under on a Greeves, one of the first purpose-built scramble bikes, with Australian motocross legend John Burrows buying this bike from Jill.

Then in the 1970s, American Ele Knowles from Greenwich, Connecticut competed on the east coast. 

Known as “Maico Mama”, after the brand of bike she raced, Ele’s first motocross event was at Bilpin, New South Wales on 3 April 1972 and, although she fell off several times, she persevered and became a regular club day and open rider. 

Beating many of the male riders on her Maico machine, she really drew the admiration of her male competitors and spectators.

In the late 1970s, clubs across Australia started introducing races just for women at both open and club events.

The development of minibikes and introduction of junior motocross competitions across Australia during this period really opened the floodgates for young girls developing their skills at a young age and gradually progressing through the classes and bigger bikes until reaching seniors.

In 1976, 15-year-old Cessnock (NSW) schoolgirl Louise Rooney became Australia’s first professional female racer, earning a sponsorship with the Kawasaki AMCO team alongside Graeme Smythe (WA) and Jeff Woodham (NSW). However, because of the strict age license restrictions in her home state, Louise was only allowed to compete interstate in open competition.

In the early 1980’s, Jenny Atkinson (nee Miller) was extremely fast and very competitive up against the men. Jenny earned sponsorship from Racing Mate, knowing that the beautiful young lady would be a great ambassador for the sport and their brand.

In 1994, Queensland sisters Jodie and Tania Millard won their respective classes at the 1994 World Women’s Motocross Championships in America, with Jodie winning the Junior Cup and Tania the Intermediate Class.