Gerringong Theatre has a storied past that began in 1953 with its establishment by Harry and Mary Waghorn. According to their son, Gary, the theatre was a bustling hub of entertainment, showcasing movies every Saturday night year-round and seven nights a week during the Christmas and Easter holidays. This tradition continued until the mid-1980s when weekend movies ceased, and by 2006, holiday screenings had also come to an end.

The revival of this local gem came in 2000 when Andy Marks, a Gerringong local and long-term projectionist for Gerringong Pics and Flicks Club (GPFC) from 2000 until 2022, approached Gary Waghorn. After a refreshing ocean swim together in Gerringong, Andy suggested showing small release films once a month at the Gerringong Town Hall. Initially hesitant about the venture's success, Gary sought advice from his father, Harry, who wisely said, “If the train’s not running, you won’t know how many will get on board.” Encouraged by his father's words, Gary agreed, leading to the establishment of GPFC.

The club's inaugural film screening in mid-2000 featured "Drifting Clouds," followed by a supper that encouraged locals to meet, chat about the movie, and get to know each other.

Interestingly, GPFC did not receive any local or state grants during its establishment. However, the Kiama Community College provided auspices for the club until it became incorporated in 2010.

Over the years, the screening of movies by GPFC has evolved. The film projection equipment, originally owned by the Waghorn family, utilised 35mm film from 1953 until 2013. With technological advancements, they transitioned to digital projection, starting with DVDs and eventually installing a hard drive system in 2022. Gary Waghorn has been mentoring the current projectionist, Glenn, since he began in 2022. Movie licensing is managed under the Gala Theatre license, with costs covered by GPFC. Gary uses his cinema distribution contacts to negotiate prices and obtain the films for screening.

The audiences for GPFC films primarily come from Kiama, Gerringong, Gerroa, Berry, and Kangaroo Valley. Occasionally, attendees travel from Wollongong and Shellharbour for popular screenings. During the summer and school holiday seasons, the audience often includes tourists. Typically, attendance per screening ranges from 100 to 150 people.

Membership in GPFC offers several incentives. Annual membership allows members to see 11 films over a 12-month period at a reduced rate. This community-centric approach is what makes GPFC's contribution to the local area unique. The club offers an opportunity to view short release and art house films, including many foreign language films not typically shown in mainstream theatres, without the need to travel to the Gala Theatre in Warrawong. The post-screening suppers foster a sense of community by encouraging attendees to meet and connect.

GPFC also supports cultural development within the Kiama Local Government Area through various outreach initiatives. These include a scholarship program that provides financial assistance for young adults in the Kiama LGA to pursue film training and support. Additionally, GPFC periodically donates to Kiama High School for their awards and collaborates with other NGOs to further community goals.

The COVID-19 restrictions of 2019 and 2020 posed significant challenges for GPFC. During this period, the club underwent a complete shutdown followed by a careful reopening process. To maintain their profile, committee member Rosie posted monthly film reviews, suggestions, and updates on their Facebook page. To conserve funds, some potential charity donations were foregone. Additionally, Gary generously offered to forgo his projectionist fee until the organisation had financially recovered post-COVID.

This year's movie selection at GPFC is diverse, consisting mainly of foreign films with subtitles, along with a mix of genres including comedy, documentary, friendship, disability focus, and crime. A few years ago, a survey was conducted among members, listing films shown in the previous two years and asking for preferences to guide future selections. Followers on the Facebook page and informal feedback during post-screening suppers also contribute to the selection process. The GPFC committee reviews trailers for upcoming films each year and votes on them to curate the annual movie lineup.

Over its 24-year history, GPFC has had many memorable moments, such as showing the George Gittoes film "Ukrainistan" and the Orrey Kelly film, both of which drew extra crowds. Since its inception in 2000, GPFC has shown 251 movies, with an additional number of films screened as part of film festivals, local community organisation events, or special local occasions.



On average, film attendance is around 100 people during cooler months and about 150-200 during warmer months. Typically, one quarter to one third of the audience stays for supper, with more attendees lingering in warmer months.

GPFC ensures its movies are accessible to the wider community in several ways. Local residents can borrow DVDs of the movies for free from the Gerringong Library, accommodating those who prefer not to go out at night or who missed a screening. The venue is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp leading to the front door and two removable seats near the front to accommodate wheelchairs. Additionally, the hall is equipped with a disabled toilet, ensuring that people with disabilities can comfortably attend screenings.