Women in 4W Driving

BY CHRIS MORTON

Elizabeth Harding

President, WA 4WD Association

The Western Australian 4WD Association is considered the peak body for 4WD clubs in WA. The Association acts as the representation of 4WD clubs when it engages with state and local government agencies and advocates on their behalf with respect to maintaining and expanding areas for recreational use. The Association also promotes safe 4WD practices and encourages efforts by clubs to give back to their community through clean-up days. They are also responsible for providing consultation and representation on matters such as the WA Adventure Activity Standards for 4W driving, the Offroad Advisory Committee and The Western Australian Recreational Campers Organisation. Elizabeth Harding is the current chair of the WA 4WD Association and has held the position for the last two years. She is a member of Armadale 4WD Club and has been involved in the 4WD community for the last 18 years. What originally got you involved in 4W driving? “Our first 4WD was a Suzuki Grand Vitara and we were looking for somewhere we could learn how to use it off-road. We went on a trip with the Armadale 4WD Club out to the Mundaring Powerlines. The club members were more than willing to pass on their knowledge. Now after 18 years, we are passing on knowledge to new members.” Why did you join a 4WD club? “That first trip out really cemented it for us. We enjoyed being in the company of other like-minded people and really enjoyed the family atmosphere the club presented. Both of our daughters grew up coming away on 4WD adventures with the club and they now both own their own 4WDs. They are teaching their children how to go camping and the fun that they can have being part of a 4WD club. The places we have visited with the club and the confidence gained from being around others that have extensive knowledge has made the membership so worthwhile.” What made you run for the Association’s chair role? “I was already president of the Armadale 4WD Club and had experience with the various other executive roles required to run a club. It was at a time where the Association was suffering from some internal conflict and I knew that I had the knowledge and experience to help guide the association along the right track.” Her tenure as chair expires in August, as per the Association’s constitution. She will put her hand up for election but will have to wait and see if she is re-elected. Her goal is to become more involved with the various clubs, represent them and assist them with functions and events, ensuring that every activity that the Association undertakes is for the betterment of its members. What changes have you seen in the 4WD community since becoming involved? “There are more single woman that feel comfortable in joining and a greater number of women taking on executive roles within clubs. We have seen some movement of

clubs away from the Association due to financial pressures and inaction caused by that internal conflict. Clubs are more aware of access changes to localities and their need to place a greater emphasis of giving back to ensure that continued access. Clubs are redefining themselves due to lower membership rates and ensuring that they stay relevant for new generations. The use of social media to talk to members privately as well as getting the message out to a wider audience. Cars are safer but the basics of 4W driving remain the same.” “We are seeing an explosion of online groups that organise trips and events. We think this is part of the evolution of clubs in general and if they are respectful, careful and mindful of their actions then the Association is happy to support them. By taking their 4WD off-road, they unwittingly represent the entire industry by their deeds and actions. We are now even seeing some of these groups approaching the Association for assistance with insurance.” How would you like to see more women getting involved in committee and leadership roles within the industry? “We are already seeing a shift, not just with 4WD clubs but across society. More and more women are taking on roles that were once viewed as a male only role. For women (or men), it is understanding that they do not have to be the expert in that field but if you have skills and experience that can enhance or complement the role then there is no reason for you to sit back.”