Cinema to return to previous trading days after limited support for Sunday trading trial

Goondiwindi Regional Council has reviewed the operating hours of the Goondiwindi Cinema and Theatre following a recent trial of Sunday trading.

Councillor Susie Kelly, portfolio holder for Community Facilities, said the Goondiwindi Cinema and Theatre is an important and highly valued asset for the Goondiwindi Region community.

“Council responded to local feedback and has been running a trial of Sunday trading from February this year to allow residents an opportunity to show their support for Sunday cinema sessions,” Cr Kelly said.

From February to June, the trial saw an average patronage of 28 attendees on Sundays. At this patronage level, the average additional cost to Council is around $500 per day, plus overhead and fixed costs. The Sunday trading loss is in addition to the current net annual loss for cinema operations of around $100,000.

Consequently, Council has made the decision to revert the Goondiwindi Cinema to its previous operating schedule from the end of August: opening Wednesday to Saturday, and additional Tuesday sessions during school holidays.

“This trial is an excellent example of Council listening to community feedback, and exploring the options available to us,” Cr Kelly said. “While this may not be the outcome some were hoping for, Council is committed to working with our film distributors to explore the option of bringing special Sunday viewing events in the future.

“We understand that the rise of at-home streaming services is impacting cinemas across the world, but we encourage everyone to make use of this amazing local facility. Nothing compares to watching a movie on the big screen with popcorn,” Cr Kelly added.

Data collected during the trial highlighted that school holidays are by far the busiest periods at the cinema, with the Budget Wednesday program and Saturdays being the most popular during school terms.

“The cinema is a million-dollar plus community facility that we’re extremely lucky to have operating in our region - for locals and visitors alike,” Cr Kelly said. “The heritage-listed theatre is a real drawcard when family and friends come to town. It also offers a great employment opportunity, especially for our young people.”

Cr Kelly urges the community to continue supporting the local cinema to ensure its sustainability. “We want to ensure that this fantastic service is available for years to come,” she said.