Sheila’s Shakedown is an annual motorcycle festival, celebrating empowerment for women and gender non-conforming individuals. Founded in 2016 by three friends, artists, and activists from Melbourne, this event has become a colorful and lively community celebration. The festival has expanded mightily over the years. It fosters an affirming environment where participants are able to form lasting friendships, discuss their stories, and cultivate their love for the excitement of motorcycle riding.
Danielle, Amber and Ruby from Mildura started Sheila’s Shakedown. What began as a local event soon became an overnight national success, attracting participants from every state and territory across Australia. In 2017, the first festival literally flooded Yarra Junction, Victoria with people. Participants were treated to an awe-inspiring 60-kilometer cycling tour along the region’s beautiful bush scenery. By 2019, the event had relocated to Ballan, Victoria, to better serve its growing cohort of bicycle adventurers.
The festival’s mission is to empower women who ride, especially those exploring and starting their journeys in motorcycling. That openness makes the environment a safe space for participants to share their experiences and emotions. This openness creates bonds that frequently develop into best friends for life. Sheila’s Shakedown has created a women-only motorcycle camp out. This super fun adventure brings out a sense of sisterhood with other women that just want to ride.
Lucia Braham is a talented photographer based in New York, NY with over a decade of photographic experience. She’s particularly adept at painting a portrait of female motorcycle culture in Australia, documenting their vibrant party atmosphere. Her bike art project Petrolette lifts up the stories and accomplishments of women in the biking community to inspire and empower others. In return, it gives them a photographic keepsake that deeply honors their strength and spirit.
Despite its artistic and civic successes, whispers in the community indicate that Sheila’s Shakedown is set to quietly die in 2026. If these rumors hold true, the festival will conclude a decade of celebrating friendship and empowerment within the motorcycle culture. Our participants and advocates are chomping at the bit to make the most out of these last five years. They are dedicated to making an inclusive space for all women and gender non-conforming riders.