An insight into an outlaw culture
The Brotherhoods

Inside the Outlaw Motorcycle Clubs.
Arthur Veno, 2002. $29.95, 277 pages

Reviewer :: Brian Hickey

Hells Angels, Gypsy Jokers, Bandidos and Comancheros. Most people have pretty strong views on what a bikie is, what they look like and, more importantly, why you should stay away from them.

Incidents like the Milperra massacre in 1984 and constant media reports of bikie violence have shaped a negative public perception of the bikie culture.

Yet, do we really know what it’s like to be a bikie or do we even want to know? – probably not.

The Brotherhoods takes us into an area where few have gone before- into the inner sanctum of the Outlaw Motorcycle Club (OMC). Arthur Veno takes an in-depth look at the Bikie culture, particularly within Australia – the rules, the people, the lifestyle, the history and the violence.

It is one of the few accounts that balances research, studies and statistics with interviews, first-hand accounts and personal stories.

Veno’s credentials are impressive. He has studied motorcycle clubs for 17 years, attended club meetings and bike runs and has a number of friends within the clubs.

Not many people get that kind of access to OMCs and even fewer are able to write with such a balanced view.

The Brotherhoods will give you a better understanding of what it is like to be a bikie but also give you more reasons to avoid them.