Cheap tickets, premium experience. New era for Cinema
Luke Warburton, pictured in a yet-to-be-revamped Cinema 1, is ready to bring an elevated movie-going experience to the community.
BELOW: extensive renovations were well under way last week.
By Cameron Outridge
The hinterland entertainment scene is getting a revolutionary upgrade as the Nambour Cinema & Event Centre prepares to open, bringing a blend of premium experiences and affordability.
The opening comes after the closure of the Majestic Cinema Nambour earlier this year.
But new owner/operator Luke Warburton is confident the premise’s transformation heralds a bright future. The familiar space will now feature laser projection, improved surround sound, and platinum recliner seating—all at a price that won’t break the bank. With tickets starting at just $10.
The combination of affordable ticket prices, premium facilities, and a commitment to community engagement is a proven recipe for success, says Mr Warburton.
“We’re a local independent so the returns we need to make are nowhere near the amounts of a publicly traded operator; we just need to keep the doors open and offer a great facility for locals,” he said. “This is all about making a difference in the community, providing a space for entertainment, connection, and enjoyment.”
Leather recliners, laser projection, immersive surround sound
Mr Warburton, who also operates cinemas in Bribie and Caloundra, said the Nambour cinema’s features were aimed at enhancing the experience for locals. “We’ve invested heavily to offer an elevated movie-going experience,” said Mr Warburton.
“Our platinum recliner cinema is a full cinema of recliners, each with its own tray table, so people can enjoy drinks, hot food, and a great movie.”
With the premium platinum recliner seats available for just $15, Mr Warburton said the idea was to keep the experience affordable and popular. “You can come to our cinema for less than half the price that it’s going to cost you elsewhere,” he said. “We want to make it accessible to everyone.”
In addition to major Hollywood blockbusters, the Nambour Cinema & Event Centre will focus on hosting local events, including film festivals, community gatherings, and live performances. “We want to be a part of the filmmaking community on the Sunshine Coast,” he said. “This space is perfect for hosting short film festivals, local premieres, and community events. We see this as more than just a cinema—it will be a hub for local culture and entertainment.”
The cinema’s reopening is expected around December 5, pending the arrival of the recliners and final touches to the new foyer, which has undergone a complete refurbishment. “The entire facility has been updated—new lighting, flooring, even upgraded bathrooms. It’s really going to be something Nambour can be proud of.”
The entire foyer has been upgraded along with a fresh candy bar. There’s a coffee machine, and a lounge area, adding to the overall experience for movie-goers.
Mr Warburton said the reopening of the cinema was part of a larger revitalisation effort for the C Square precinct, with millions of dollars being invested in upgrades. “The entire facade of C Square is getting a facelift, and the cinema is playing a big part in bringing people back to the area,” he said. “We want to create a vibrant space where people want to come and spend time, whether it’s for a movie, an event, or just to enjoy the atmosphere.”
The new Nambour Cinema & Event Centre also plans to activate its live theatre space, offering the potential for local and touring acts to perform. “We want to use the live theatre space in Cinema One to attract local and touring performers,” he said.
“From what I understand, the Civic Centre used to have a great business back in the day. Now, with all these upgrades, we hope to bring that energy back.”
Mr Warburton hopes the new Nambour Cinema & Event Centre will draw both locals and visitors, bringing vibrancy back to C Square and the CBD. “Cinemas are really community assets,” he said. “Some councils would love to have a cinema in their town. We’re fortunate to be able to bring this facility back to life, and we’re excited to help reinvigorate the CBD.