I was contacted recently by Cinema and Theatres Historic Society Victoria who wanted to know if there was still a cinema in Silkwood and, if so, was it possible to send a photograph. By sheer coincidence I had taken a few pix of the old Rex cinema in Cairns so I thought I’d try and document any remaining cinemas on the Cassowary Coast. They are all built in the local version of Art Deco.

There are a few that I haven’t managed to photograph yet but when my camera is working again I shall add to this post.

Rex Cinema, Cairns

Rex Cinema, Cairns

Rex Cinema, Cairns

Shortly after taking the snaps of the Rex it made the news:

Legal stoush erupts over theatre demolition

Council considers theatre demolition bid

Theatre demise disappoints heritage advocates

The Rex is no more so it was fortunate that I grabbed these photos while it was still standing.

Silkwood Cinema

Silkwood Cinema

Silkwood Cinema

The disused cinema at Silkwood was damaged in Cyclone Larry and Cyclone Yasi probably didn’t do it any favours either.

Tully Cinema

Tully Cinema

The old cinema at Tully survived all the cyclones and is currently the home of Pacific Fasteners. As you can see, it is in fine fettle.

Mourilyan Cinema

Mourilyan Cinema

Mourilyan cinema is now occupied by Canegrowers but looking a little sad.