Telethon Community Cinemas marks 25 years and continues to grow for a greater cause

From its humble beginnings as ‘Movies by Burswood’, Telethon Community Cinemas has grown to 4 beautiful locations – Burswood, Bassendean, Murdoch and Joondalup and, as announced at its recent 2025 Presentation Night, has now raised $13.6 million for WA children’s charities.

It is a dream come true for Ken Gibbons, the event organiser, and a commitment recognised this year through his Lifetime Achievement Award from Independent Cinemas Australia.

The proud moment was amplified by the 2025 season’s record-breaking attendance of 77,281 patrons, along with record sales in bean bag hires, the candy bar, and the bar.

Growth for the 2025 season was no mean feat with a 230% increase on the number of rainy days compared to the previous season and the continued impact of Hollywood actors’ and writers’ strikes on mainstream studio film releases.

The Cinemas’ ability to be highly flexible with the programming, focusing on family event films, offering a generous number of free screenings and maintaining low prices for families has seen attendance rise +32% overall in the past 3 years. Joondalup has seen the highest increase in attendance by +69% followed by +45% at Murdoch. Burswood continues to be the premier venue with 34% of patrons.

The dream continues as the volunteer run organisation marks 25 years and looks forward to another blockbuster season with Wicked: For Good and Avatar: Fire and Ash releasing over the summer.

To align with a longstanding, community-driven event that celebrates giving back, unique experiences and belonging, reach out to Erin Pitchers at Spotlight Cinema Advertising for screen advertising and Ruth Leyland-Cowan at RLC Group for sponsorship opportunities.