From Roy Rogers and Elmer Fudd to Fellini and Arthouse films, the legend that is the Gala Twin Cinema in Warrawong

Words Kim White

Images From the collections of the Wollongong City Libraries and the Illawarra Historical Society

It was three years after the end of World War 2, a time when Australians were finally relaxing back into life without the constant back drop of war. An era when there were few better options for date night, than a cheap Chinese meal and off to the “pictures”.

 In December 1948, the new 1,391 seat Odeon Cinema swung open its doors for the first time. Action in the North Atlantic starring Humphrey Bogart was the first film to grace the Odeon’s screen. Constructed on a greenfield site in Cowper Street at Warrawong, it was built for and operated by Greater Union on land owned by Billy Wentworth, at that time, a federal politician. 

A disagreement between Greater Union and Wentworth in March 1971, over who would pay for a new fire water main resulted in the immediate and unexpected closure of the theatre. Paint Your Wagon was supposed to be screening when theatre manager Don Fox received the instructions to “take the cash and leave”.

A young Harry Waghorn was working that night when the order came through and he saw an opportunity. He contacted Billy Wentworth and after much negotiation and a redesign of the building to allow more retail space, the theatre was remodelled and reopened with 518 seats in June 1972 with the screening of Nicholas and Alexander. The name Gala was not the result of expensive marketing research, but the fact the old Gala Cinema in Sydney was being demolished. Harry contacted the demolition company and did a deal to take the neon signs, and the “Gala” was born. Twenty-three years later in December 1995 the second theatre opened with 107 seats, hence the current title, Gala Twin.

In a world where most small regional picture theatres have fallen by the wayside, the Gala is still with us today. It has become a cherished symbol of cinematic artistry and communal connection in Warrawong and indeed the greater Illawarra. With its rich and surprisingly long history, it is a testament to the passion and unwavering dedication of current owner and manager Ian Hislop, who has been at the Gala since the mid-eighties.

With its undeniable charm, the Gala has earned its place as an integral part of the community, however it doesn’t rely totally on nostalgia. Whilst not completely disregarding the occasional blockbuster, the films are now targeted at a more discerning audience, seeking something unique and outside the mainstream. Also, they have not been afraid of adapting and embracing technological advancements while always being cognisant of the historical value of the venue.  From the transition to digital projection to the introduction of comfortable seating and state-of-the-art sound systems, the cinema has strived to enhance the movie-watching experience without compromising its unique character.                                                                                                

It’s hard to know if someone will be reflecting on its current incarnation in another 75 years but in the meantime, check out the Gala’s unique, quality offerings. Whilst you’re there, take a moment, close your eyes, and listen, you may just hear the walls whispering, backdropped by the sound of a ghostly Jaffa rolling along a timber floor.