Good news for 2020 members! If you renewed or joined the BCFFG for 2020, you don't need to do anything for 2021. Your 2020 membership is valid for 2021 as well. Just remember to bring your 2020 membership card with you when you prebook tickets at the box office before the Sunday screenings, and to the door on the day.
THE BCFFG RETURNS - WITH RESTRICTIONS ...
January 2021
We are set to go with our first film for 2021, a French comedy with Juliette Binoche, How To Be A Good Wife. (Check it out on the Current Season page.)
Because we have been working our way through the COVID-19 restrictions with changes constantly altering scheduling at the cinema, our first film will be on at 1pm rather than our regular time of 10.45am. We hope to return to our normal time for our future screenings. Meanwhile, we’re looking at the screening time of 1pm on the 7th of February. Hooray!
We also have to do things a bit differently in regards to bookings. You will not be able to rock up to see the film without a booking, which is done through Trybooking. This screening of How To Be A Good Wife on behalf of the BCFFG is now live in the TryBooking System for 1pm on Sunday 7 February, 2021. The link to the event is https://www.trybooking.com/BOART.
Members can also have the option of pre booking their tickets at the Arts Centre box office prior to the day.
Anyone can book tickets at normal prices, but BCFFG members can access the 100% discount by entering the members promo code word sent via email in the promotions field in their cart at checkout. It's easy to do. Member couples can book with one booking and each of you will receive a ticket for you to print out.
The tickets are labeled “Bass Coast Fine Film Group Member Only Ticket” and TryBooking will produce a list of members who have booked so that we can check names against our membership list on arrival. This is all done to comply with COVID tracing requirements. Each person in the cinema must have a ticket with their own name on it. These COVID Safe Entry conditions are printed on the tickets:
COVID Safe Entry - Terms and Conditions:
The Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre welcomes you back to the movies! To ensure a COVID Safe environment patrons are advised that by purchasing this ticket you agree to the following Terms and Conditions:
For contact tracing purposes only, the ticket purchaser agrees to provide details of their party if required.
Please note the entire venue will be closed for cleaning between each cinema session. Follow the directions of staff and exit immediately after the film has concluded, taking your rubbish with you.
If you haven’t collected your 2020 membership card, I still have them for you. Just ask me on the day.
Larry Hills
Secretary
Because we have been working our way through the COVID-19 restrictions with changes constantly altering scheduling at the cinema, our first film will be on at 1pm rather than our regular time of 10.45am. We hope to return to our normal time for our future screenings. Meanwhile, we’re looking at the screening time of 1pm on the 7th of February. Hooray!
We also have to do things a bit differently in regards to bookings. You will not be able to rock up to see the film without a booking, which is done through Trybooking. This screening of How To Be A Good Wife on behalf of the BCFFG is now live in the TryBooking System for 1pm on Sunday 7 February, 2021. The link to the event is https://www.trybooking.com/BOART.
Members can also have the option of pre booking their tickets at the Arts Centre box office prior to the day.
Anyone can book tickets at normal prices, but BCFFG members can access the 100% discount by entering the members promo code word sent via email in the promotions field in their cart at checkout. It's easy to do. Member couples can book with one booking and each of you will receive a ticket for you to print out.
The tickets are labeled “Bass Coast Fine Film Group Member Only Ticket” and TryBooking will produce a list of members who have booked so that we can check names against our membership list on arrival. This is all done to comply with COVID tracing requirements. Each person in the cinema must have a ticket with their own name on it. These COVID Safe Entry conditions are printed on the tickets:
COVID Safe Entry - Terms and Conditions:
The Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre welcomes you back to the movies! To ensure a COVID Safe environment patrons are advised that by purchasing this ticket you agree to the following Terms and Conditions:
- Please do not attend the venue if you are unwell - a full refund will be available on the day of the session only by contacting the Box Office directly on 03 5671 2470.
- Upon arrival show your booking confirmation at the Box Office. Presentation of email confirmation on your mobile device is acceptable.
- Follow directions of staff whilst in the venue. Seating is unreserved - individuals and groups attending the theatre should adhere to social distancing measures maintaining at least 1.5m apart.
- Wear a mask at all times and refit your mask immediately after consuming food and drink. Disposable masks will be available.
- Practice good hygiene - hand sanitizer will be freely available.
- Contactless sales are preferred.
For contact tracing purposes only, the ticket purchaser agrees to provide details of their party if required.
Please note the entire venue will be closed for cleaning between each cinema session. Follow the directions of staff and exit immediately after the film has concluded, taking your rubbish with you.
If you haven’t collected your 2020 membership card, I still have them for you. Just ask me on the day.
Larry Hills
Secretary
COMING SOON!!!
ST KILDA FILM FESTIVAL TOUR 2017
"The St Kilda Film Festival
is one of Australia's largest and oldest short film festivals." Find out more: St Kilda Film Festival July 2017 |
Mark your diary - 14th July 2017, 6.30pm at "The Union". Details of films to come.
All tickets $15 for the whole festival. |
Wonthaggi International Film Festival Kicks Off!
Another great year for WIFF with a fantastic selection of films on offer over the weekend of 17th-19th February 2017. Keith has outdone himself in the films showing over the weekend and it should be a great Festival.
Opening Night is a Red Carpet Affair, so frock up ladies! Boot and suit you gentlemen and enjoy!
Opening Night is a Red Carpet Affair, so frock up ladies! Boot and suit you gentlemen and enjoy!
GREAT NEWS! The cinema has reopened.December 2016
|
What a relief to all the cinephiles of Wonthaggi. The cinema has reopened this week with a great program of kids entertainment and something for the grown ups.
Check out the program on the What's Screening Now page. Whew! |
Ushering in a new era at Wonthaggi cinemaposted by Sentinel-Times December 28, 2016
|
The team working on the upgrades to the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre, from left, Anne-Marie Adamson, Liv Bunting, Brian Wheeler, Chris Wutzke, Garry Bates, Eric Hartel and Mark Lindsay, prepare for a preview screening last week of ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’. It was a practice run for the busy tourist season at the cinema. N015216
THE stars have aligned for a new era at the revamped Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre and regular screenings of films, both new releases and cult classics, will be at the heart of it.
Wonthaggi Theatrical Group productions, school and community concerts and dance group performances will still have priority, but when it’s available, the Bass Coast Shire Council wants to fill the venue with film lovers, almost every day of the week.
The council’s ideas that have gained traction in the community include:
• Monday Matinees: Classic films geared for seniors to enjoy
• Trendy Tuesdays: For fans of art house and independent films
• Wacky Wednesdays: The best comedies to have you in stitches
• Thursday Thrillers: Fright night in Wonthaggi
• Family Fridays: Take the kids out for some wholesome fun
• Weekend wonders: New releases continue to come to town.
Filmgoers will be encouraged to dress up to fit the theme, whether it’s Star Wars, the Blues Brothers, Wayne’s World or Nightmare on Elm Street.
Associated activities and competitions are also set to be part of the fun.
The council’s Recreation and Culture coordinator Mark Lindsay said the aim is to appeal to new audiences.
“We’re not competing with Stadium 4 in Leongatha. This is something totally different.”
Mark said the council has developed a close relationship with the Bass Coast Fine Film Group which will continue to screen its monthly offerings for members.
He said retired manager of the Wonthaggi Union Cinema, Keith Stevens is also providing valuable support in the transition phase.
This transition will see the council take on the management of the venue with the ultimate goal of attracting the biggest and best acts for the Bass Coast community.
“We want the arts centre to become a real cultural space, more than just the cinema,” Mark said.
“The more successful the cinema is, though, the better the chance we have of getting in some big acts that we haven’t previously been able to get to Wonthaggi.”
The arts centre is undergoing a facelift and will be ready in time for new release screenings for the holidays from today (Wednesday), with movies including animated musical comedy ‘Sing’; ‘The Founder’ starring Michael Keaton as McDonalds founder Ray Kroc; mystery thriller ‘The Girl on the Train’ starring Emily Blunt; and Harry Potter spinoff, JK Rowling’s ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’.
These Happy Holidays films will be screening until January 11 when more new releases arrive. Check www.uniontheatre.org.au (currently under construction) closer to the date for all the details.
Following the busy summer season of new releases, the cinema will host the annual Fine Film Festival in the third week of February, before the regular weekly themed program commences later in that month.
Keep an eye on the Sentinel-Times for details.
Wonthaggi Theatrical Group productions, school and community concerts and dance group performances will still have priority, but when it’s available, the Bass Coast Shire Council wants to fill the venue with film lovers, almost every day of the week.
The council’s ideas that have gained traction in the community include:
• Monday Matinees: Classic films geared for seniors to enjoy
• Trendy Tuesdays: For fans of art house and independent films
• Wacky Wednesdays: The best comedies to have you in stitches
• Thursday Thrillers: Fright night in Wonthaggi
• Family Fridays: Take the kids out for some wholesome fun
• Weekend wonders: New releases continue to come to town.
Filmgoers will be encouraged to dress up to fit the theme, whether it’s Star Wars, the Blues Brothers, Wayne’s World or Nightmare on Elm Street.
Associated activities and competitions are also set to be part of the fun.
The council’s Recreation and Culture coordinator Mark Lindsay said the aim is to appeal to new audiences.
“We’re not competing with Stadium 4 in Leongatha. This is something totally different.”
Mark said the council has developed a close relationship with the Bass Coast Fine Film Group which will continue to screen its monthly offerings for members.
He said retired manager of the Wonthaggi Union Cinema, Keith Stevens is also providing valuable support in the transition phase.
This transition will see the council take on the management of the venue with the ultimate goal of attracting the biggest and best acts for the Bass Coast community.
“We want the arts centre to become a real cultural space, more than just the cinema,” Mark said.
“The more successful the cinema is, though, the better the chance we have of getting in some big acts that we haven’t previously been able to get to Wonthaggi.”
The arts centre is undergoing a facelift and will be ready in time for new release screenings for the holidays from today (Wednesday), with movies including animated musical comedy ‘Sing’; ‘The Founder’ starring Michael Keaton as McDonalds founder Ray Kroc; mystery thriller ‘The Girl on the Train’ starring Emily Blunt; and Harry Potter spinoff, JK Rowling’s ‘Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them’.
These Happy Holidays films will be screening until January 11 when more new releases arrive. Check www.uniontheatre.org.au (currently under construction) closer to the date for all the details.
Following the busy summer season of new releases, the cinema will host the annual Fine Film Festival in the third week of February, before the regular weekly themed program commences later in that month.
Keep an eye on the Sentinel-Times for details.
UPDATE ... Progress on the future of our cinema
December 2016
Hello everyone. You will be pleased to know that great progress has been made by the Bass Coast Shire Council (BCSC) in the continuance of the Wonthaggi Cinema and the BCFFG.
In terms of the building, there has been some remodelling works done in the foyer to make it more user friendly. Most of that is behind the scenes, but keep an eye out for future updating of the building.
There have been a number of applicants for the job of cinema manager/projectionist, so there is progress on that front as well. The current plan is to have the cinema up and running and showing movies over the school holidays.
The BCFFG Committee and BCSC are in the process of finalising our terms of use and access to the WUCAC facilities. It is very exciting to be able to say that it looks like we will be hosting two film festivals next year, and will have set dates for our usual BCFFG screenings.
Larry Hills, our Secretary, and Mark Lindsay, the Shire Recreation and Culture Co-ordinator, have worked particularly hard on our behalf, and it is gratifying to know that the newly elected Councillors are behind the continuance of the cinema as well. Many, many thanks to Larry and Mark for all their efforts.
Once an agreement has been formalised, we will be able to publish dates for BCFFG films and Festivals for 2017, so keep your eyes on the website!
Have a very happy and safe Christmas, and a New Year chock full of great film!
In terms of the building, there has been some remodelling works done in the foyer to make it more user friendly. Most of that is behind the scenes, but keep an eye out for future updating of the building.
There have been a number of applicants for the job of cinema manager/projectionist, so there is progress on that front as well. The current plan is to have the cinema up and running and showing movies over the school holidays.
The BCFFG Committee and BCSC are in the process of finalising our terms of use and access to the WUCAC facilities. It is very exciting to be able to say that it looks like we will be hosting two film festivals next year, and will have set dates for our usual BCFFG screenings.
Larry Hills, our Secretary, and Mark Lindsay, the Shire Recreation and Culture Co-ordinator, have worked particularly hard on our behalf, and it is gratifying to know that the newly elected Councillors are behind the continuance of the cinema as well. Many, many thanks to Larry and Mark for all their efforts.
Once an agreement has been formalised, we will be able to publish dates for BCFFG films and Festivals for 2017, so keep your eyes on the website!
Have a very happy and safe Christmas, and a New Year chock full of great film!
2nd October 2016
More information about our win with the Shire and the Council:
First of all, none of it could have been accomplished without hard work of the Mark Lindsay, the Shire Recreation and Culture Co-ordinator. He was tireless in his efforts to get a positive outcome for us and for the Shire. There were also four Councillors who supported us along the way and who have always given extra support to the Arts. They were the Mayor, Jordan Crugnale, and Councillors Neil Rankine, Clare Le Serve and Bradley Drew. Thanks also to all of you who sent emails and letters to the Shire and to your local Councillors. I was happy to be the spokesperson for all of you in my dealings with the Shire. They knew they were dealing with a strong and passionate group of citizens who were looking for a positive outcome for our whole community.
I’ve been assured by Mark Lindsay that the Shire is purchasing the projection equipment, providing someone to run the programming in the Cinema and Keith has agreed to help us source films for next year. The Bass Coast Fine Film Group will run as it always has, with members paying a fee up front ($65 for 2017) and receiving a membership card which will gain them admission into all of the BCFFG screenings with nibbles and drinks after each.
We do need to have a clearer record of all members for next year, so members who are renewing will have to fill in the renewal form on our website. This will give us an electronic record of your payment. As you can appreciate, with more than 200 members it can get difficult at times to trace payments made without a renewal form. Please wait until after 9 October to renew you memberships. New memberships can be accepted then as well.
Coming up this week is the “Final Wonthaggi Film Festival.” Check our website to see reviews and trailers of all the Festival films. http://basscoastfinefilmgroup.weebly.com/the-final-wonthaggi-film-festival-2016.html The opening night film, Life, Animated, looks like being a sell-out, so you are advised to try to purchase your tickets in advance at the box office in the Cinema or show up early to avoid disappointment. Members get a concession for all of the other films in the Festival and the Sunday morning film at 10.30 is Sunset Song and it’s free admission to Members with their cards. There will also be food and drinks after the last film in celebration of Keith’s retirement.
Hope you can join us on the weekend to finish off another brilliant year of Cinema in Wonthaggi.
Cheers,
Larry
More information about our win with the Shire and the Council:
First of all, none of it could have been accomplished without hard work of the Mark Lindsay, the Shire Recreation and Culture Co-ordinator. He was tireless in his efforts to get a positive outcome for us and for the Shire. There were also four Councillors who supported us along the way and who have always given extra support to the Arts. They were the Mayor, Jordan Crugnale, and Councillors Neil Rankine, Clare Le Serve and Bradley Drew. Thanks also to all of you who sent emails and letters to the Shire and to your local Councillors. I was happy to be the spokesperson for all of you in my dealings with the Shire. They knew they were dealing with a strong and passionate group of citizens who were looking for a positive outcome for our whole community.
I’ve been assured by Mark Lindsay that the Shire is purchasing the projection equipment, providing someone to run the programming in the Cinema and Keith has agreed to help us source films for next year. The Bass Coast Fine Film Group will run as it always has, with members paying a fee up front ($65 for 2017) and receiving a membership card which will gain them admission into all of the BCFFG screenings with nibbles and drinks after each.
We do need to have a clearer record of all members for next year, so members who are renewing will have to fill in the renewal form on our website. This will give us an electronic record of your payment. As you can appreciate, with more than 200 members it can get difficult at times to trace payments made without a renewal form. Please wait until after 9 October to renew you memberships. New memberships can be accepted then as well.
Coming up this week is the “Final Wonthaggi Film Festival.” Check our website to see reviews and trailers of all the Festival films. http://basscoastfinefilmgroup.weebly.com/the-final-wonthaggi-film-festival-2016.html The opening night film, Life, Animated, looks like being a sell-out, so you are advised to try to purchase your tickets in advance at the box office in the Cinema or show up early to avoid disappointment. Members get a concession for all of the other films in the Festival and the Sunday morning film at 10.30 is Sunset Song and it’s free admission to Members with their cards. There will also be food and drinks after the last film in celebration of Keith’s retirement.
Hope you can join us on the weekend to finish off another brilliant year of Cinema in Wonthaggi.
Cheers,
Larry
17th August 2016
Dear Members and Friends,
At last, I finally got some direct answers from the Shire. On Monday, I had a one-on-one meeting with Mark Lindsay, the Shire coordinator of recreation and culture, and I believe he does indeed understand the importance of the Cinema in Wonthaggi. He’s done a lot of work and has some great ideas.
He understands that the Council must either purchase the projection equipment from Keith or least provide an alternative.
He also acknowledges the problems the Fine Film Group has had with getting bumped out of screening days when someone else wants to use the Arts Centre. He intends to book a film once a month for the Fine Film Group as well as introducing regular “Classic” film nights for the public.
He showed me an impressive “planner,” on which he had set out all the proposed booking dates for the next twelve months including film, WTG, School productions, Dance Schools and scheduled maintenance. I actually saw the yellow stickers on the planner for our films. He’s also pretty sure that they can contract someone to run the Centre and the films. He thinks that the Shire might be able to staff a box office in the Centre (part-time) for events and that they will get eftpos facilities there as well.
Of course all of this has to go through the Shire executive committee next Tuesday, 23 August, who then send it on to Council for approval. The current Council can approve it up until their 21 Sept meeting then Council goes into “caretaker mode” on the 22nd. So it is still important that you make your voices be heard by writing to your local councillor before the last Ordinary Meeting of the Council on the 21st of September, to tell them how important the Cinema is to the community. It all sounds good. We didn’t talk about the business plan for the Arts Centre but Mark gave me enough information for me to know that the Cinema is definitely part of the future of the Centre.
Since our meeting, I have found out that the business plan for the WUCAC will be released on the Bass Coast Shire website on Monday, 22 Aug. There will also be an opportunity at a public information session where Council will be available to speak about the project on Wednesday 31 August from 5.00pm – 6.30pm. I’ll let you know the location when it is decided.
Our next film will be on Sunday the 4th of September. It will be a little gem called Dough. Information about the film will be posted on the website soon. http://basscoastfinefilmgroup.weebly.com/current-season.html#current movie
In case you didn’t get the information about contacting your local Councillor, here is the information again:
Mayor, Cr Jordan Crugnale - Townsend Ward
Jordan Crugnale is your Mayor and representative for Inverloch and Pound Creek. You can contact Cr Crugnale by:
Deputy Mayor, Cr Bradley Drew - Anderson Ward
Bradley Drew is your Deputy Mayor and representative for Anderson, Churchill Island, Dalyston, Kilcunda, Newhaven, San Remo, South Dudley, North Wonthaggi and Woolamai You can contact Cr Drew by:
Cr Kimberley Brown - McHaffie Ward
Kimberley Brown is your representative for Rhyll, Sunset Strip, Ventnor and Wimbledon Heights You can contact Cr Brown by:
Cr Phil Wright - Churchill Ward
Phil Wright is your representative for Cape Woolamai, Smiths Beach, Sunderland Bay and Surf Beach. You can contact Cr Wright by:
Cr Neil Rankine - Hovell Ward
Neil Rankine is your representative for Wonthaggi (south of Korumburra Road) and all of Cape Paterson and Wattle Bank You can contact Cr Rankine by:
Cr Clare Le Serve - Leadbeater Ward
Clare Le Serve is your representative for Grantville, Coronet Bay, Corinella, Bass, Glen Alvie, Archie's Creek and surrounds. You can contact Cr Le Serve by:
Cr Andrew Phillips - Thompson Ward
Andrew Phillips is your representative for Cowes and surrounds. You can contact Cr Phillips by:
Cheers,
Larry
Dear Members and Friends,
At last, I finally got some direct answers from the Shire. On Monday, I had a one-on-one meeting with Mark Lindsay, the Shire coordinator of recreation and culture, and I believe he does indeed understand the importance of the Cinema in Wonthaggi. He’s done a lot of work and has some great ideas.
He understands that the Council must either purchase the projection equipment from Keith or least provide an alternative.
He also acknowledges the problems the Fine Film Group has had with getting bumped out of screening days when someone else wants to use the Arts Centre. He intends to book a film once a month for the Fine Film Group as well as introducing regular “Classic” film nights for the public.
He showed me an impressive “planner,” on which he had set out all the proposed booking dates for the next twelve months including film, WTG, School productions, Dance Schools and scheduled maintenance. I actually saw the yellow stickers on the planner for our films. He’s also pretty sure that they can contract someone to run the Centre and the films. He thinks that the Shire might be able to staff a box office in the Centre (part-time) for events and that they will get eftpos facilities there as well.
Of course all of this has to go through the Shire executive committee next Tuesday, 23 August, who then send it on to Council for approval. The current Council can approve it up until their 21 Sept meeting then Council goes into “caretaker mode” on the 22nd. So it is still important that you make your voices be heard by writing to your local councillor before the last Ordinary Meeting of the Council on the 21st of September, to tell them how important the Cinema is to the community. It all sounds good. We didn’t talk about the business plan for the Arts Centre but Mark gave me enough information for me to know that the Cinema is definitely part of the future of the Centre.
Since our meeting, I have found out that the business plan for the WUCAC will be released on the Bass Coast Shire website on Monday, 22 Aug. There will also be an opportunity at a public information session where Council will be available to speak about the project on Wednesday 31 August from 5.00pm – 6.30pm. I’ll let you know the location when it is decided.
Our next film will be on Sunday the 4th of September. It will be a little gem called Dough. Information about the film will be posted on the website soon. http://basscoastfinefilmgroup.weebly.com/current-season.html#current movie
In case you didn’t get the information about contacting your local Councillor, here is the information again:
Mayor, Cr Jordan Crugnale - Townsend Ward
Jordan Crugnale is your Mayor and representative for Inverloch and Pound Creek. You can contact Cr Crugnale by:
- Landline: (03) 5671 2282
- Mobile: 0448 082 802
- Address: c/o Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995
- Email: [email protected]
Deputy Mayor, Cr Bradley Drew - Anderson Ward
Bradley Drew is your Deputy Mayor and representative for Anderson, Churchill Island, Dalyston, Kilcunda, Newhaven, San Remo, South Dudley, North Wonthaggi and Woolamai You can contact Cr Drew by:
- Landline: (03) 5678 8355
- Mobile: 0448 083 529
- Postal: c/o Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi, VIC 3995
- Email: [email protected]
Cr Kimberley Brown - McHaffie Ward
Kimberley Brown is your representative for Rhyll, Sunset Strip, Ventnor and Wimbledon Heights You can contact Cr Brown by:
- Landline: (03) 5952 6962
- Mobile: 0448 079 405
- Postal: c/o Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995
- Email: [email protected]
Cr Phil Wright - Churchill Ward
Phil Wright is your representative for Cape Woolamai, Smiths Beach, Sunderland Bay and Surf Beach. You can contact Cr Wright by:
- Landline: (03) 5952 6651
- Mobile: 0432 754 731
- Postal: c/o Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi, VIC 3995
- Email: [email protected].gov.au
Cr Neil Rankine - Hovell Ward
Neil Rankine is your representative for Wonthaggi (south of Korumburra Road) and all of Cape Paterson and Wattle Bank You can contact Cr Rankine by:
- Landline: (03) 5672 4885
- Mobile: 0413 902 571
- Address: c/o Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995
- Email: [email protected]
Cr Clare Le Serve - Leadbeater Ward
Clare Le Serve is your representative for Grantville, Coronet Bay, Corinella, Bass, Glen Alvie, Archie's Creek and surrounds. You can contact Cr Le Serve by:
- Landline: (03) 5678 0669
- Mobile: 0448 083 286
- Postal: c/o Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995
- Email: [email protected]
Cr Andrew Phillips - Thompson Ward
Andrew Phillips is your representative for Cowes and surrounds. You can contact Cr Phillips by:
- Landline: (03) 5952 3006
- Mobile: 0448 082 953
- Postal: c/o Bass Coast Shire Council, PO Box 118, Wonthaggi VIC 3995
- Email: [email protected]
Cheers,
Larry
THE FUTURE OF OUR CINEMA AND THE BCFFGJuly 2016
|
After the surprise announcement of Keith's retirement from the Wonthaggi Cinema in October this year, there have been many concerns and worries expressed by our Members and the general community about the future of a cinema in Wonthaggi. The BCFFG Committee is absolutely committed to working with the Council to ensure that cinema does not die in this town. So far, discussions between Committee Members Larry Hills and Yvonne McRae have been cautiously optimistic.
We will be keeping you updated via email and on this page of developments as they arise. One thing that must not be lost in the concerns for the future of the Cinema is the wonderful job that Keith Stevens has done over the past years to provide us with quality cinema. He has done an outstanding job for the town and we cannot thank him enough. He will be a great loss to us, and I am sure we will all miss his cheerful face in the box office, as well as his ability to source beautiful, thought provoking films. It would be wonderful for all of us to express to him personally how much we have enjoyed his talents, and his commitment, and to thank him for all he has done. |
UPDATES on the status of discussions with Council ...
3rd July 2016
Dear Members and friends,
Once again, thank you for all of your letters of support, suggestions and ideas about the future of the Wonthaggi Cinema and our Fine Film Group. I’ve had nearly 100 emails from members and friends of the fine film group. Many have sent letters or emails to their local councillors, which has helped bring the issue to the fore. I’ve been asked by people if it would be a good idea to put letters in the local press. I think it would be OK as long as you keep it along the lines of looking forward to seeing the business plan for the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre and hoping that the Cinema will continue to be an important part of our community. It’s fair to mention Keith’s retirement in October and how important he has been to keeping the cinema culture alive in Wonthaggi. Please don’t make the Shire Council out to be the villains in the piece because we are relying on the Council to be a part of the solution. I have, with the committee, the Council and the Shire officers, spent the last week working together towards a positive outcome. We’ll know in a couple of weeks how the cinema fits into their future plans for the Arts Centre. Letters are fine now as long as they are tempered with the voice of reason and patience. Thanks again.
Cheers,
Larry
Dear Members and friends,
Once again, thank you for all of your letters of support, suggestions and ideas about the future of the Wonthaggi Cinema and our Fine Film Group. I’ve had nearly 100 emails from members and friends of the fine film group. Many have sent letters or emails to their local councillors, which has helped bring the issue to the fore. I’ve been asked by people if it would be a good idea to put letters in the local press. I think it would be OK as long as you keep it along the lines of looking forward to seeing the business plan for the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre and hoping that the Cinema will continue to be an important part of our community. It’s fair to mention Keith’s retirement in October and how important he has been to keeping the cinema culture alive in Wonthaggi. Please don’t make the Shire Council out to be the villains in the piece because we are relying on the Council to be a part of the solution. I have, with the committee, the Council and the Shire officers, spent the last week working together towards a positive outcome. We’ll know in a couple of weeks how the cinema fits into their future plans for the Arts Centre. Letters are fine now as long as they are tempered with the voice of reason and patience. Thanks again.
Cheers,
Larry
1st July 2016
Dear Members and friends,
It has been a busy week. We do now know for sure that Keith Stevens is retiring in October and that his last showing will be the film festival in October. He has been a real asset to our community and he'll difficult to replace. Make sure you thank Keith the next time you see him. We’ve been so lucky to have Keith guide us through the foundation of our Fine Film Group. Eight fantastic years.
Thank you to everyone who offered support, comments and suggestions this week about the continuation of the Cinema and the Fine Film Group in Wonthaggi. We’ve had positive discussions with the Council officers and councillors. The Mayor, Jordan Crugnale, set up a meeting yesterday morning with herself, Mark Lindsay, Co-ordinator of Recreation and Culture, Antoinette Mitchell, Manager of Community Strengthening, Yvonne McRae, our Vice President and myself. The purpose of the meeting arranged by Jordan was to bring out the issues from the BCFFG and the Shire officers so that the Councillors would know more our concerns and the Shire’s response. Here is a summary of the points made during the meeting:
I hope you can see all of this as a positive step. We’ll see what happens after the Arts Centre business plan is release later in the month. I’m confident the Shire will do their best to provide for the demands of the people to keep the cinema open in Wonthaggi and keep us all in fine films for the future.
Cheers,
Larry
Dear Members and friends,
It has been a busy week. We do now know for sure that Keith Stevens is retiring in October and that his last showing will be the film festival in October. He has been a real asset to our community and he'll difficult to replace. Make sure you thank Keith the next time you see him. We’ve been so lucky to have Keith guide us through the foundation of our Fine Film Group. Eight fantastic years.
Thank you to everyone who offered support, comments and suggestions this week about the continuation of the Cinema and the Fine Film Group in Wonthaggi. We’ve had positive discussions with the Council officers and councillors. The Mayor, Jordan Crugnale, set up a meeting yesterday morning with herself, Mark Lindsay, Co-ordinator of Recreation and Culture, Antoinette Mitchell, Manager of Community Strengthening, Yvonne McRae, our Vice President and myself. The purpose of the meeting arranged by Jordan was to bring out the issues from the BCFFG and the Shire officers so that the Councillors would know more our concerns and the Shire’s response. Here is a summary of the points made during the meeting:
- Keith Stevens is officially retiring at the end of October. Keith is not an employee of the Shire but will finish with his contract with the Shire in Oc
- The Council thinks that retaining the Cinema in the Arts Centre is of primary importance.
- The Shire is investigating the purchase of the digital projection equipment from Keith.
- The Shire will attempt a smooth transition between Keith and the new operator.
- The Shire is presenting a business plan for the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre in a briefing to Council in the next couple of weeks. The Cinema is part of that business plan. The plan is not yet public but will be available mid-July
- The Shire is setting up an advisory panel made up of representatives of user groups, including the BCFFG, to advise Council on the use of the Arts Centre
- From us: We think that eventually, the Cinema would have to be in a different space.
- From us: It is important that the delivery of films for the Cinema remains independent from mainstream distribution because of screening restrictions.
- From us: We definitely need to know the transition arrangements by October of this year in order plan for the whole of 2017. The Shire is comfortable with that timeframe.
- From us: We will send out an email to members after our committee meeting tomorrow.
I hope you can see all of this as a positive step. We’ll see what happens after the Arts Centre business plan is release later in the month. I’m confident the Shire will do their best to provide for the demands of the people to keep the cinema open in Wonthaggi and keep us all in fine films for the future.
Cheers,
Larry
Article reproduced from The Sentinel Times, July 2016.
Retirement sparks cinema closure
By Brad Stout posted by Sentinel-Times July 5, 2016 News
THE future of the Wonthaggi cinema is in doubt as manager Keith Stevens negotiates the sale of the digital projection equipment to the Bass Coast Shire Council, which owns the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre.
The negotiations come following the announcement of Mr Stevens’ retirement from the cinema – which left many Wonthaggi moviegoers panic-stricken and afraid it would close indefinitely.
Neither Mr Stevens nor members of the council were willing to comment on the state of the $137,000 negotiations; however, a business plan for the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre is set to be presented in a briefing to council in the coming weeks.
Council’s David Elder, general manager of healthy communities, and Mark Lindsay, coordinator of recreation and culture, said the cinema is still a part of that business plan, despite the uncertainty of future operations.
“What we’ve heard in the business case is that the cinema is absolutely valued by the community, so we’ll be doing everything we can to ensure the cinema operations continue,” said Mr Elder.
“What we don’t know yet is what that looks like.
The negotiations come following the announcement of Mr Stevens’ retirement from the cinema – which left many Wonthaggi moviegoers panic-stricken and afraid it would close indefinitely.
Neither Mr Stevens nor members of the council were willing to comment on the state of the $137,000 negotiations; however, a business plan for the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre is set to be presented in a briefing to council in the coming weeks.
Council’s David Elder, general manager of healthy communities, and Mark Lindsay, coordinator of recreation and culture, said the cinema is still a part of that business plan, despite the uncertainty of future operations.
“What we’ve heard in the business case is that the cinema is absolutely valued by the community, so we’ll be doing everything we can to ensure the cinema operations continue,” said Mr Elder.
“What we don’t know yet is what that looks like.
Retiring after 17 years
After serving as manager of the cinema for 17 years, Mr Stevens says he decided to retire in part because of the increasing uncertainty around the Arts Centre’s availability.
As the cinema is housed in the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre, it has to share the space with local theatre productions and dance recitals, among other things – which limits how often the cinema can operate.
Additionally, scheduled screening sessions at the cinema are often taken off the calendar so the council can use that time to schedule repairs and maintenance at the facility.
“From my point of view at the moment, it’s uncertain,” Mr Stevens said.
“I don’t know when the cinema can use the centre.
“For me, it isn’t viable, but if council operated it, it would be practical because they would turn around and probably run with volunteers, which wouldn’t cost them wages.
“They can run what they want and run it as a community cinema which would be fabulous for the town.”
Mr Stevens would also like the council to operate the cinema in his absence by placing a year-round box office in the centre and a full-time box office manager who can also manage the cinema.
“This place, if the cinema is not here, will become a white elephant,” said Mr Stevens.
“People won’t come into the town if it’s not here.”
After serving as manager of the cinema for 17 years, Mr Stevens says he decided to retire in part because of the increasing uncertainty around the Arts Centre’s availability.
As the cinema is housed in the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre, it has to share the space with local theatre productions and dance recitals, among other things – which limits how often the cinema can operate.
Additionally, scheduled screening sessions at the cinema are often taken off the calendar so the council can use that time to schedule repairs and maintenance at the facility.
“From my point of view at the moment, it’s uncertain,” Mr Stevens said.
“I don’t know when the cinema can use the centre.
“For me, it isn’t viable, but if council operated it, it would be practical because they would turn around and probably run with volunteers, which wouldn’t cost them wages.
“They can run what they want and run it as a community cinema which would be fabulous for the town.”
Mr Stevens would also like the council to operate the cinema in his absence by placing a year-round box office in the centre and a full-time box office manager who can also manage the cinema.
“This place, if the cinema is not here, will become a white elephant,” said Mr Stevens.
“People won’t come into the town if it’s not here.”
Users worried
Members of the Bass Coast Fine Film Group (BCFFG), which regularly holds screenings of various art films in the cinema, asked to meet Mayor Jordan Crugnale, as well as Mr Lindsay and Antoinette Mitchell, manager of Community Strengthening, on Thursday, June 30 to discuss their concerns.
Larry Hills, BCFFG secretary, said council assured them of its intention to keep the cinema going and informed the group of plans to create an advisory panel made up of representatives of all the different groups that use the Arts Centre, including BCFFG.
Mr Hills said BCFFG is optimistic that the cinema will continue, but the group feels the cinema will eventually need to operate out of a different location.
In the event council decides not to purchase the projection equipment from Stevens, BCFFG has been discussing new options to ensure a cinema continues to operate in the region.
BCFFG said Mr Steven’s expertise would be missed.
Mr Stevens has worked as a camera operator for various documentaries over the past 55 years.
He took over operations of the cinema in 2000 and quickly launched The Wonthaggi International Film Festival and The Other Wonthaggi Film Festival.
The final film screening under his operation will be held at 4pm on Sunday, October 9.
Members of the Bass Coast Fine Film Group (BCFFG), which regularly holds screenings of various art films in the cinema, asked to meet Mayor Jordan Crugnale, as well as Mr Lindsay and Antoinette Mitchell, manager of Community Strengthening, on Thursday, June 30 to discuss their concerns.
Larry Hills, BCFFG secretary, said council assured them of its intention to keep the cinema going and informed the group of plans to create an advisory panel made up of representatives of all the different groups that use the Arts Centre, including BCFFG.
Mr Hills said BCFFG is optimistic that the cinema will continue, but the group feels the cinema will eventually need to operate out of a different location.
In the event council decides not to purchase the projection equipment from Stevens, BCFFG has been discussing new options to ensure a cinema continues to operate in the region.
BCFFG said Mr Steven’s expertise would be missed.
Mr Stevens has worked as a camera operator for various documentaries over the past 55 years.
He took over operations of the cinema in 2000 and quickly launched The Wonthaggi International Film Festival and The Other Wonthaggi Film Festival.
The final film screening under his operation will be held at 4pm on Sunday, October 9.
27th June 2016
Dear Members and Friends,
I’m screaming mad!!
Yesterday at our film, we got shocking news that as a result of the uncertainty of scheduling film sessions at the Wonthaggi Cinema, it will cease to exist in its current form at the end of October.
This is in part due to the Bass Coast Shire Council scheduling maintenance at short notice without consultation and also making extra bookings for the facility, limiting the film screenings to the point where they are unviable.
Films have played a very important part in the lives of the people in this area. They are also a very import part of Wonthaggi’s history. Wonthaggi has a long history of film theatres dating back to the Smith’s Hall in 1911. In the early years of this town, there were as many as four picture theatres showing moving pictures to the people of Wonthaggi. Eventually, the Union Theatre was the last one standing. And so Wonthaggi still has its cinema in the Union Arts Centre, built on the site of the original Union Theatre. We need to hang on to that one. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Keith Stevens, the manager of the Cinema for the past 17 years, has decided that it’s too difficult for him to continue. The digital projection equipment belongs to Keith and he is currently negotiating with the Shire as to whether he takes it with him or sells it to the Shire with the Shire taking over the management of the Cinema. He has offered to train someone else how to use the equipment and manage the screenings after he is gone.
Keith told the Fine Film Group yesterday that he loves our group and that, even after he has left, he will arrange for us to get fine films for our screenings. But that cannot be done if the projection equipment were to be taken out.
The BCFFG Committee is meeting later in the week to discuss what we can do about it. We currently have 219 members who have paid to attend all of our screenings and a further 120 “friends”, who attend our screenings on a casual basis. Our current season will be relatively unaffected but our viability in 2017 is basically in the Bass Coast Shire Council’s hands at the moment.
Feel free to contact your local councillor via phone or email to let him/her know what you think. The Shire cannot let the cinema fall by the wayside. A solution must be found.
After our committee meeting, we’ll let you know what the BCFFG’s course of action will be.
I hope everyone is as upset about this as I am!
Regards,
Larry
Dear Members and Friends,
I’m screaming mad!!
Yesterday at our film, we got shocking news that as a result of the uncertainty of scheduling film sessions at the Wonthaggi Cinema, it will cease to exist in its current form at the end of October.
This is in part due to the Bass Coast Shire Council scheduling maintenance at short notice without consultation and also making extra bookings for the facility, limiting the film screenings to the point where they are unviable.
Films have played a very important part in the lives of the people in this area. They are also a very import part of Wonthaggi’s history. Wonthaggi has a long history of film theatres dating back to the Smith’s Hall in 1911. In the early years of this town, there were as many as four picture theatres showing moving pictures to the people of Wonthaggi. Eventually, the Union Theatre was the last one standing. And so Wonthaggi still has its cinema in the Union Arts Centre, built on the site of the original Union Theatre. We need to hang on to that one. Once it’s gone, it’s gone.
Keith Stevens, the manager of the Cinema for the past 17 years, has decided that it’s too difficult for him to continue. The digital projection equipment belongs to Keith and he is currently negotiating with the Shire as to whether he takes it with him or sells it to the Shire with the Shire taking over the management of the Cinema. He has offered to train someone else how to use the equipment and manage the screenings after he is gone.
Keith told the Fine Film Group yesterday that he loves our group and that, even after he has left, he will arrange for us to get fine films for our screenings. But that cannot be done if the projection equipment were to be taken out.
The BCFFG Committee is meeting later in the week to discuss what we can do about it. We currently have 219 members who have paid to attend all of our screenings and a further 120 “friends”, who attend our screenings on a casual basis. Our current season will be relatively unaffected but our viability in 2017 is basically in the Bass Coast Shire Council’s hands at the moment.
Feel free to contact your local councillor via phone or email to let him/her know what you think. The Shire cannot let the cinema fall by the wayside. A solution must be found.
After our committee meeting, we’ll let you know what the BCFFG’s course of action will be.
I hope everyone is as upset about this as I am!
Regards,
Larry
Breaking News ... Cinema closed temporarily.
BCFFG movie scheduled for 8th May postponed until further notice.
Dear Members and Friends,
The Wonthaggi Arts Centre has been temporarily closed by the Shire due to a fire safety issue. It is unlikely to re-open before Thursday. That means that our film (as well as the other films this week) has had to be cancelled. Please spread the word to your friends who you think may have been interested in attending. We will let you know if we can re-schedule our film at a later time. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Cheers,
Larry
The Wonthaggi Arts Centre has been temporarily closed by the Shire due to a fire safety issue. It is unlikely to re-open before Thursday. That means that our film (as well as the other films this week) has had to be cancelled. Please spread the word to your friends who you think may have been interested in attending. We will let you know if we can re-schedule our film at a later time. Sorry for the inconvenience.
Cheers,
Larry
Articles and posts about the cinema. |
New reviews ...Here are some recent reviews. Get behind your local film culture. Write something about what you've seen and submit it to us.
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The Wonthaggi International Film Festival 2016 Program announced ...
Another season of excellent films, curated by Keith, has been put together for us lucky, lucky people. I don't know if many realise the paucity of film festivals outside of the Melbourne CBD, or even quality film outside of the usual blockbuster fare from the USA. It is incredible what we get to see, not only twice a year during WIFF and The Other WFF, but all year round.
Make sure to tell all your friends to get behind our local cinema and support it as much as possible, and also to come along and see something new and different from the usual. Film reviews during and after the Festival are most welcome, so if you feel moved, submit a review here. See you in the dark! |
Another year of great quality film is
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Get your eyes into gear for another year of great film and quality entertainment. Larry has let us all know the approximate dates for the BCFFG films over the coming year, so mark them in your diary now! If you haven't renewed (or joined if you are a new member), get cracking and tell your friends.
You really can't fault the quality and range of films you'll see, or the value. $60 a year for so many great movies is a bargain. For more information on the 2016 Season, click here. To renew or join up to become a member, click here. Can't wait to see you all there! Jan 2016 |
October 2015
Thanks once again to Keith for a wonderful film festival. The choice of films on offer during The Other Wonthaggi Film Festival was varied and had something to offer everyone.
Highlights were certainly the two documentaries about Marlon Brando and Peggy Guggenheim, each of which were presented in a unique way and were very enlightening.
Can't wait 'til March!
Last BCFFG movie is Sunday 18th October, 10.45am - be there or be ... sad!
August 2015
Many thanks and congratulations to Heather Tobias for contributing our first review from the public. Please read her insightful comments here.
It may inspire some of you to drop me a line with your own thoughts about this movie or something else you may have seen.
Many thanks and congratulations to Heather Tobias for contributing our first review from the public. Please read her insightful comments here.
It may inspire some of you to drop me a line with your own thoughts about this movie or something else you may have seen.
July 2015
APOLOGIES to all who have taken the time to contact me about the website and the content. I haven't responded, but I am very appreciative of the positive comments that have been sent. Please feel free to send any brickbats (as well as bouquets) my way, and I am interested in anything that readers would like to see that we are missing out on.
NEW LOOK - I have updated the look of the BCFFG Current Season page and am in the process of retrospectively updating previous seasons. I personally sometimes have trouble remembering the plots of films seen in the past, so I thought it might be nice to have something tangible to look at. Keep an eye out for the previous year's films, and check out the new look of the Current Season page.
REVIEWS - Come on folks, get your pencils sharpened and drop me a line on any movies you have enjoyed (or hated) and see your name in print. Just go to the Reviews page and Submit a review. I'd love to hear what you think.
Webmaster
APOLOGIES to all who have taken the time to contact me about the website and the content. I haven't responded, but I am very appreciative of the positive comments that have been sent. Please feel free to send any brickbats (as well as bouquets) my way, and I am interested in anything that readers would like to see that we are missing out on.
NEW LOOK - I have updated the look of the BCFFG Current Season page and am in the process of retrospectively updating previous seasons. I personally sometimes have trouble remembering the plots of films seen in the past, so I thought it might be nice to have something tangible to look at. Keep an eye out for the previous year's films, and check out the new look of the Current Season page.
REVIEWS - Come on folks, get your pencils sharpened and drop me a line on any movies you have enjoyed (or hated) and see your name in print. Just go to the Reviews page and Submit a review. I'd love to hear what you think.
Webmaster
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