City of Victor Harbor to Commence Direct Management of Victa Cinema
The City of Victor Harbor has assumed management of the historic Victa Cinema from Country Arts SA, marking the next step in Council’s long-term vision to establish a vibrant Arts and Culture Centre in the town centre.
Council purchased Victa Cinema in 2020 to secure its future as a community-owned cultural landmark. Since then, Country Arts SA has successfully managed day-to-day operations of the cinema on Council’s behalf, maintaining high standards of service, programming and audience engagement while Council developed the broader cultural precinct concept.
City of Victor Harbor Chief Executive Officer, Victoria MacKirdy, said the transition in management will strengthen Council’s capacity to deliver a cultural precinct that links Victa Cinema, Victor Harbor Town Hall and Coral Street Art Space.
“Country Arts SA has played a vital role in stabilising and strengthening the Victa Cinema over the past four years,” said Ms MacKirdy.
“As Council prepares for the next stage of the Arts and Culture Centre project, it makes sense to bring the cinema’s operations in-house so we can fully align our venues, staff and systems.”
“Victa Cinema is one of few remaining heritage cinemas still operating in South Australia. This step is part of our long-term strategy to ensure it remains a living part of our community – supporting local jobs, creative partnerships and year-round cultural activity.”
The change in management will not impact Victa Cinema’s regular programming or community events. All current staff have been invited to continue employment under Council, ensuring continuity for patrons and a smooth handover.
Country Arts SA Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Peluso, acknowledged the successful partnership between the two organisations.
“We are proud to have worked with the City of Victor Harbor to sustain and grow Victa Cinema over recent years. We look forward to continuing to collaborate through regional programs and arts development initiatives across the Fleurieu,” Mr Peluso said.
Since October 2020, the Victa Cinema has:
- Sold 200,150 tickets
- Screened 650 films
- Hosted 80 events
- Shared 45,000 buckets of popcorn
- Brain freezed patrons with 30,000 choc tops