OPENING season will herald the start of a new era at a much-treasured attraction in the Hills this month.
Kookaburra outdoor cinema owner-operator Lindsay Morris (76) has parted with the entertainment venue he built and managed for 18 years and handed it over to close friends Peter and Agnes Foyster.
“When we started the business, I said to the family I’d give it 10 years,” the retiring projectionist said.
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READ NOWHe made the switch from reel to digital last year to provide customers with the latest movies and the first screening of a 3-D film at an outdoor cinema in Western Australia.
“Last year was our best year yet; with digital we could offer people more of the films they wanted to see and we averaged 200 people a night, compared to our previous best of 175,” Mr Morris said.
He said his decision to retire was not a difficult one and the ‘Kooky’ was in safe hands.
Mr Foyster (66) said not much would change, but he and his wife would like to “put their mark” on the Mundaring cinema.
“I’ve always had an interest in movies and projection equipment; that’s how I first met Lindsay,” Mr Foyster said.
“He has a lot of knowledge to impart and we intend to carry on in the same tradition.”
The former information systems officer, from Roleystone, said the couple’s decision to purchase the Kookaburra was a lifestyle choice.
He said his wife Agnes, a former banker, would look after the financial side of the business.
Mr Foyster and groundskeeper/doorman Alf Leaver, of Greenmount, were busy this week preparing the grounds for opening night on Friday, November 20.
The first season program will feature a 3-D screening of The Walk on Friday, December 4.
There is seating for 310 people and cinemagoers are welcome to book a table or bring their own chairs and picnic.
For full program details, call 9295 6190 or visit the website