Bribie Cinema projectors to keep powering on

An injection of funding thanks to the federal government will make a big difference to operations at Bribie Cinema. As an independent cinema operating in the struggling arts and entertainment sector, Bribie Cinema was given a boost and awarded $35,000 under Round 2 of the $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund.

Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, Paul Fletcher said a total of 125 independent cinemas across the country would receive a share of $7.3 million from the latest round of SCREEN Fund grants to support their resurgence from COVID-19 disruption.

“Independent cinemas are a vital component of Australia’s economic, social and cultural wellbeing, which is why we continue to provide one-off business continuity grants to support the cinemas resurgence from prolonged closures and capacity restrictions,” Minister Fletcher said. “The government has committed $17.7 million to date from the SCREEN Fund to support 200 independent cinemas across the country to keep their doors open, continue offering employment opportunities, and carry on showcasing diverse stories to entertain their communities.”

Federal Member for Longman, Terry Young, said the latest grants would allow independent cinema operators to keep providing a popular, low-cost and COVID-safe way for people to go out and enjoy a movie as part of their local community.

“I’m pleased to announce that Bribie Cinema has been approved for a $35,000 grant as part of the $20 million SCREEN Fund,” Mr Young said. “This funding will help them to recover from severe disruption that has largely impacted their revenue streams and work towards restoring normal operations as COVID-19 restrictions ease.”

Bribie Cinema owner Luke Warburton said he was delighted to receive the funding under the program which would help keep the projectors running.

“Though it’s getting better, we’re still not anywhere near where we were pre-Covid,” Mr Warburton said. “This funding means we’ll be able to keep operating and providing this important entertainment asset for the local community.”

SCREEN Fund applications are open until April 30 or until total funds are committed.

For more information and to check eligibility, visit: https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/funding-and-support/covid-19-support/screen-fund