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Salient. Victoria University Student Newspaper. Vol 35 no. 22. 14th September 1972

The Stormtroopers

The Stormtroopers

Formed in Otara, Auckland, in 1970. The membership of the Storm troopers ranges from 80 — 250 strong. They, and other gangs, were brought to the public's attention when they were interviewed on the TV programme 'Gallery'. Why were they fo[unclear: a]med? This question was put to various members of the 'Stormies' by Dr. Brian Edwards on the programme. Their answers were the same. 'Because there was nothing to do at Otara, and we got together for company. And we were sick of other gangs coming into Otara and belting our mates.' Research revealed (after this program) that there were no recreational facilities and no form of social facilities. That was back in 1970 What about today? The Storm troopers of today are respected among a lot of residents at Otara because on the 1st May, which was the Saturday night Otara had 'dancing in the street' to colebrate the Auckland City Centennial, members of the Stormies fought with the gang the Hell's Angels, who had come to Otara to disrupt the activities, but were driven away by the Storm troopers. After the Hell's Angels left, the Stormies escorted young members of the Otara community safely to their front doorstep. Most important is the respect among the elder Maoris earned by the Storm troopers at various maraes around the northern parts of the North Island. Other activities they have participated in have been: Fund raising pop concert they organised for the 'Save Queen Victoria School' appeal in which they raised 2000 dollars to stop the closing of Queen Victoria School, and the labour they supplied for restoration of maraes. Storm troopers' uniform: Denim jackets with a skull and crossbone symbol painted usually in red and white with the words 'Stormtroopers' below.