THE Force is strong in Star Wars fans Rodney and Tony Cox.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The non-identical twins are well-known in Dubbo and the region for their enviable collection of memorabilia from the fictional universe created by film maker George Lucas.
Prized possessions include Storm Trooper, Imperial Guard and Darth Vader costumes imported from America and a 'Visual Impact' Star Wars-themed show ute, designed and created by Tony.
The 50-year-old brothers are proud to be devoted and faithful Star Wars fans. They enjoy dressing in character for charity fundraisers, promotional events, car shows and private parties.
"We were aged about 13 when we first saw the original Star Wars movie," Rodney said.
"It was fantastic. We loved the whole science fiction thing and got wrapped up in the costumes, the space ships and what the characters were doing.
"The storyline appeared to be so far into the future but there was also a feeling that it could one day be a real possibility."
The Star Wars collection started about 25 years ago with Darth Vader and Imperial Guard masks.
"We rigged up the rest of the costumes to take part in a charity night for a girl who had cancer," Rodney said.
"She loved Star Wars and we were pleased to be able to make her happy.
"We kept collecting special items and about 20 years ago ordered two Storm Trooper suits from Fort Lauderdale in the United States.
"It's great fun to put on the Storm Trooper gear and the reaction from children is just wonderful. Their eyes light up when they see us and they get even more excited when we pose for photos.
"Dressing up in costume is a lot better than playing with toys."
Tony works in patient records at Dubbo Hospital and Rodney is an insurance broker.
The brothers are looking forward to seeing Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, due for release in December.
"But we won't be wearing our Storm Trooper costumes to watch the movie," Rodney said.
"It is too hard to sit down."
Rodney's children, Jessica, 20, and Ashley, 18, are also keen Star Wars fans.
"My wife Ann-Marie is not as enthusiastic but she still enjoys seeing the movies," he said.
"Tony has put a lot of work into designing and creating his show ute. He purchased the metallic blue 2008 Holden VE SSV as a plain vehicle and wrapped it in vinyl murals depicting all the Star Wars characters, ranging from Darth Vader and Storm Troopers to the guys fighting the Death Star."
The ute features a range of engine modifications and custom additions, including 1734 LED lights, a 46" LED 3D WiFi television, DJ mixer and console, solar panels, Sony Play Station 3 and limited edition Xbox 260 Star Wars console.