Come back to the movies

February 23, 2021

Gunnedah’s Civic Cinema is rolling out the red carpet and welcoming the community back to the movies.

This year marks 20 years of operation for the cinema, which has recently undergone a full refurbishment with fresh carpeting and seats, LED lighting, a hearing loop and a new candy bar.

With the anniversary comes a renewed push for residents to take advantage of movie screenings at their local Civic, following a reduction in attendance due to COVID-19.

Gunnedah Shire Council Director of Corporate and Community Services Colin Formann is encouraging residents to support their local cinema.

“COVID-19 has presented the global cinema industry with its biggest challenge, and the Civic is beginning to feel these pressures. Occupancy limits, blockbuster delays and a rise in online streaming have left people feeling a little reluctant to return to the big screen,” Mr Formann said.

“Despite these external pressures, we’re confident nothing beats the big theatre experience.

“Attending a movie at the Civic offers a chance to switch off and escape for a couple of hours in air conditioned comfort, as well as an excuse to tuck into a choc top.

“A steady increase in attendance over the life of the cinema has allowed us to increase the number of screenings and draw more new releases, but in light of these new pressures we really need people to start coming back.

“There is plenty of space to settle in and relax, we have a CovidSafe plan in place and want to reassure the community it’s safe to come back.”

Official birthday celebrations will kick off in March this year, and a full cinema program is available at www.thecivic.com.au.

Caption: Highlights from the photo wall installed during recent refurbishments.

ENDS

Media contact: Communications Team (02) 6740 2100.