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LOUISE MENZER SCHERBYN

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Copyright ©2003-2006 WIMA USA. All rights reserved.

Linda Bootherstone  Back to top

Louise Scherbyn

I first heard of WIMA and Louise Scherbyn in 1966 when Maureen Willis enlisted me as a member of WIMA GB. Gradually I became aware of the WIMA network and the benefits it brought to women, like myself, who felt isolated in their love of motorcycling and the freedom it brought, which often drew the disapproval of more 'normal' society who felt that a womans place was in the home or, at most, as pillion support to a male rider.

As my travels widened and I explored new countries I was grateful for the help I received from other WIMA members. In 1974/5 I was in Africa and met members in Rhodesia and S. Africa.

In 1983 I finally went to America to meet Louise who organised a bike for me to use and gave me a list of WIMA members in US I could call upon and who, indeed, made my tour a huge success.

At the time Louise, in her late 70's, I believe, lived alone in a small house in NY state and I remember every corner of this abode crammed with WIMA paraphernalia, the shelves and cupboards bursting with old newsletters. On her old manual typewriter she was still trying, with poor eyesight and arthritic fingers, to keep women worldwide in touch with one another. In this task I was happy to help. She was a strong character who had spent a lifetime realizing her dream of uniting women enthusiasts in many countries.

When I returned to my home, then in South Australia, I felt I should repay all the help and hospitality of all the WIMAs I had met and continue Louises hopes by reviving the long dead Australasian division, which is now one of the strongest per capita divisions in the WIMA world.

Now living in Spain I have had contact with women motorcyclists who are even more isolated in their passion through cultural and economic barriers but who, I hope, will eventually break through and become an organised group.

Having been 37 years in WIMA and met women in many countries who have been inspired by Louises dream, I feel that hers has been a worthwhile project in many ways:

1. It has increased womens self confidence and feeling of self worth by enabling them to prove themselves as safe and competent riders not only in control of their bikes but, in many cases, back in control of their lives.

2. It has brought together different cultures and fostered international understanding and goodwill.

3. It has enabled many women to develop their talents in diplomacy and management., finding and/or sharpening their skills in organisation in taking on jobs in leadership or committees of various divisions.

4. It has led to WIMA supporting various charities such as Cancer Research in Australia where they hold an annual Pink Ribbon Ride.

Sheonagh Ravensdale, our former International president is organising a project in the name of and funded by WIMA for aid to orphans in India. Other countries have had various ride outs and raffles to make donations to regional charities.

All this has been possible because of the initial idea of Louise Scherbyn.  As a former captain, initiating a division I know what hard work and level of dedication is necessary in such a venture. WIMA has blossomed from the original seeds of Louises idea. Though few of the present day members have met her, we have met one another through her dream and I, for one, will be eternally grateful.

Ms Linda Bootherstone, Initial Captain, WIMA España
[15.11.03]

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Copyright ©2003-2006 WIMA USA. All rights reserved.