Page 36 - CinemaRecord #84

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND
A PICTORIAL DIARY
Mike & Barb Trickett

ost people have a ‘must do’ list of places or things they would
Mlike to do during their lifetime.

For a number of years, one of ours has been to do the 7000 km return
trip up to the Gulf of Carpentaria and take a ride the Gulflander train.

The road trip via outback Queensland offers the chance to visit many
of the out of the way towns along the way and of course inspect and
photograph the cinemas and former cinemas where they still exist.

The friendliness of small town people and the ease with which they
share their knowledge of their community was most evident in the “bush”.
In many cases a walk up to an older person in the street, elicited lots of
information of where the theatre was, operated it, etc. Winton: (pop. 980) A visit to Winton would not be complete
without saying hi to my friend Peter Evert at the Royal Theatre. An
Some of the interesting towns visited along the way include: outdoor venue with deck chair seating, the Royal lays claim to having
on display the world’s largest deck chair. Presently screening 16 mm
Longreach: (pop. 3624) The old Roxy Theatre in Swan St still and 35 mm films, the changeover to digital projection is being
stands; today it is used as a gymnasium, albeit currently for sale. Around contemplated.
the corner in Eagle St, stands the unimpressive Star Cinema, with its
narrow, roller door covered entry. When open, the narrow entrance leads
to the upstairs auditorium.

Mount Isa: (pop 23,000) The small entrance to the Star Theatre
is off Rodeo Drive, the main street of Isa. The Star has converted to
digital and with 3D screenings.

36 CINEMARECORD # 84