Australian bushfire recovery – ways you can help

As some towns on the New South Wales South Coast are re-opening for business there's lots of ways you can help them get back on their feet.

The fires have not only decimated homes, lives and wildlife in the short term but they will have a long term effect on local economies. The best thing those of us who live near these affected areas can do right now is get down there and spend our money!

That means spending your weekends there. Book that accommodation, enjoy the beaches, take tours, buy meals, head to the local pubs for a few schooners and, when the lights go down, spend an evening at the movies.

The South Coast of NSW has some great little independent cinemas that can promise you a really fun night out and an experience far more intimate than a big city multiplex.

If you’re planning a trip to the South Coast of New South Wales, here’s a list of local independent cinemas you might want to visit (click the headings to visit their websites):

Perry Street Cinemas – Batemans Bay 

Located in the Citi Centre Arcade right in the middle of beautiful Batemans Bay these guys have all the new releases you would expect to see at any of the big city cinema chains with way better ticket prices! Tickets right now are 10 bucks until 22 January 2020!

Arcadia Twin Cinemas – Ulladulla

These guys have been going strong in Ulladulla for over 21 years! They’ve recently upgraded to a full digital projection system and the picture quality is immaculate. You can even go a step further with a movie and meal deal. $24 gets you a lunch plate or coffee and cake at the Treehouse Cafe (their coffee is the bomb!) and a movie ticket. Try getting a deal like that in the city!

Inlet Cinema – Sussex Inlet

From a tiny weatherboard hall built in 1947 comes a little cinema with a lot of heart. Don’t let the exterior fool you, the Sussex Inlet Cinema has been renovated throughout with all the mod cons. This Sunday (January 19, 2020) they are taking part in the Australian Film Distributors and Exhibitors 2020 Bushfire Appeal where $2 from every ticket will be donated to the Salvos, Red Cross and RSPCA.

Huskisson Pictures – Jervis Bay

In the beautiful town of Husky you won’t only find a great pub right on the doorstep of stunning Jervis Bay, you’ll also come across Huskisson Pictures. This quaint cinema is a complete refit of the local town hall which has stood since 1914 and the sister cinema of Sussex Inlet. They are also taking part in the bushfire appeal mentioned above.

The Picture Show Man – Merimbula

Located at the top of the town in beautiful Merimbula you will find this little twin cinema. It’s just down the road from Top Fun Amusements where you can have a game of ten-pin bowling or mini golf, then round out the day with a movie. The Picture Show Man boasts full digital projection and Dolby surround sound, just like the big guys but with all the TLC that goes into being an independent operator.

The Roxy Theatre – Nowra

The Roxy is an iconic building in the Shoalhaven. It’s been around since 1935 and has stood where, in many other local cinemas of this style have been demolished to make way for more modern amenities. It was renovated in 2017 and restored back to it’s art deco glory. Well worth a visit just to see the facade. Another participant in the Aussie Film Distributors Bushfire Appeal this weekend.

 

If there are more cinemas, community groups running movie nights you know of, or even local business that need our help please leave information in the comments below. Let’s get out there, support independent cinemas and bring some business back to our beloved towns!

I want to help but I can’t get there right now!

That’s easy, head over to any of the websites listed above and purchase a gift voucher to use later or give to a friend.

I’m from a long way away but I still want to help!

If you’re reading this from afar and and want to know how you can help there are many charities running appeals, please be sure to check the credentials of any organisation you choose to donate to.

The Watchman supports the following bushfire appeals:

The Salvation Army Disaster Appeal

Australian Red Cross Disaster Recovery and Relief

RSPCA Bushfire Appeal

Support for families of firefighters killed on duty