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The projection box was located in the same The ticket box and entry
building as the cafeteria, and was equipped
with a pair of Super Standard projectors with
BTH Supa carbon arc lamps. These were in
operation until 1977, when a single Bauer U3
projector, with a Strong lamphouse and a
platter system was installed. However, one
of the original Super Standard machines was
fitted with a new Strong xenon lamphouse
and retained in place. This setup made it
possible to use the platter where a film was
to be screened for a few nights, and when a
single night run was required, the film could
be run with change-overs between the two
machines, avoiding the need to make-up and
break-down the film.

In common with most other drive- Today, the site of the Golden is occupied by a
ins, the Golden found the 1980s housing estate. However, some recognition of
tough going. Family audiences, the original use of the area remains in the
originally the main stay of the naming of some of the streets.★
industry, had been discouraged by
the younger generation and the type
of fare being offered to attract them,
as well as the later start and finish
times due to the introduction of
daylight saving. The introduction of
colour TV and the VCR, only
compounded the problem.

The original format of screening six
nights a week, and later seven nights,
was reduced to just Friday, Saturday
The cafeteria awaiting demolition. and Sunday towards the end of
theatre’s days. Credits:
The 1960s saw motor vehicles become easier Bendigo Advertiser
to own, and young people were finding it much The Golden Drive-in ceased operation on
easier to obtain their own. The popular vehicle 3 February 1985 and, according to the Bendigo Images:
with them at the time was the panel van. Advertiser, “contrary to general belief was not Michael Purden
Generally they would be parked in backwards really the victim of the new craze 'Videos', but Steve Hobbs
with the tailgate open and the occupants laying was having enormous problems obtaining Ian Smith
back on mattresses and pillows watching the enough films to keep up regular screenings”.
show, etc.! Additional information:
Ian Smith and Michael Purden

Under demolition: All that remains is the screen and the cafeteria
building

CINEMARECORD # 100 43