DEE

Name:  Deidre Edmonds (Dee)

Member since: December 2018

Ride: Kawasaki Vulcan Classic 900 MY 2010

Riding since: 1999 – 2008 ,  then a Decade off, then from December 2018

Loves: New experiences, being outdoors, Summer, wildlife / animals , the water, gardening

Hates: Aggressive personalities, intolerant behaviours, abusive people, violence against anyone , particularly the vulnerable…children, women, the disadvantages, defenceless animals .

What are your pronouns? She / Her

Who inspires you? Not so much individual people, but types of people. Driven/passionate/cheerful, depth of character, kind/inclusive/knowledgeable/ people who overcome life’s obstacles with honour and hard work

Tell us something about you that no one would know? I am currently completing Certificate III I Horticulture

Where’s your favourite place in the world?  The Gippsland Lake for jetskiing . Amazing waterways , the opportunity to be immersed in wildlife, dolphins, pelicans…. Beautiful scenery. I have travelled to 14 countries all of which had beautiful areas but I am always happy returning to Melbourne . We are very fortunate to live in Australia

Tell me how you first got involved in with DoBM? In around 2003 I rode in Pride with DOBM , tail end Charlie crew , what a buzz, less structured back in the day ….a nursing friend jumped on the back of my VSTAR 650 at the last minute to share the experience. I actually sent a cheque off to join DOB that year but it didn’t get cashed, I did not get contacted so let it go until 15 years later . I met Liz, she was joining and getting her bike licence….so of I went and bougt myself a XMAS present … a Honda CBR300.

What is so empowering about riding a motorcycle? And How does riding transform other areas of your life? I have always enjoyed “movement/speed” . I use to downhill and cross country ski, do long distance bicycle riding ….then as I aged and physical abilities changed…….I guess I was seeking the freedom of movement in other forms that I could achieve, ..my jetski..Sunny Seadoo and now my Vulcan Classic 900. I always enjoy “gearing up” and heading out on the bike . It’s like I am on holidays and about to embark on some great activity . Because I ride mostly for pleasure , not for commuting , riding is usually linked with a great day out, a catch up with friends and the DOB crew.

Which pride parade would you love to ride in? Because I have loved my trips to San Fran…and love Castro and the vibes …I think to ride there would be an amazing time . I also enjoy the efforts of some of the German DOB crew with social media and think they are motivated bunch . To ride in Germany could be mighty interesting .

What are you passionate about? Travelling, living a good life . Learning new skills, making the most of what life brings my way. People and creatures in my “inner circle” . I will fight any fight to ensure people I am connected closely with are safe , feel supported and encouraged  and cared for.

If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be? That COVID-19 never existed as so many people have been lost , livelihoods ruined, a global crisis for sure . I know you asked for one but this will pass in time .. The other thing I would change is the corruption of some government bodies and people in power that  do nothing to banish poverty or or improve the lives and longevity of their people.

What is your dream bike? Make/Model/Year and why ? I hadn’t really thought about it . I loved my chromed up V star , but after a quick google of top cruisers …..could have been an expensive activity….there is a 2020 Indian scout coming out to celebrate their 100th anniversary . red and gold…also a Fat Boy limited edition to celebrate the 30th anniversary . Very appealing indeed.

What do you wish other people knew about DoBM? That by joining DOBM , you are not only joining to ride with other dykes/lesbians, but entering new friendships, an environment of support and shared knowledge , a group that thinks for those less fortunate  . get on board . We have had a big spike in memberships recently . ..and what a great time to join . We are heading into a time for celebration with next year , 2021 , being our 10th anniversary since forming. It has to be a great time to celebrate …who we are , what we do , what we hope for as a club , new adventures , new experiences, gained friendship and support . Someone is always watchin’ out for their mate .