Murray Bridge’s Cameo Cinema to close after almost 50 years

It’s the last cinema in its region but its owners say there’s still a chance it could survive after they close their doors.

The only cinema in the state’s Murraylands region is set to close its door after 47 years.

The Cameo Cinema in Murray Bridge will close down permanently from July 28 with its owners set to “step back”.

The cinema took to social media to make the announcement on Sunday evening, becoming the latest business closure to hit the state.

“After a lot of thought and a heavy heart, Cameo Cinema Murray Bridge will be shutting its doors,” the statement said.

The only cinema in the state’s Murraylands region is set to close its door after 47 years.

“The curtains will close for the last time on Sunday, July 28 2024.

“After 47 years working in an industry that is traditionally busy over family/holiday times we are choosing to step back and enjoy these wholeheartedly.”

“We wish to thank our community for all their support and encourage you to make the most of one more Cameo experience before we close.”

Cameo Cinema owner Daryl Kennett, David Dalaithngu and Sue Kennett Picture: Supplied Cameo Cinema

The future of the building is still up in the air, with some hope the sale of the property will see the movie theatre remain.

“We are open to discussing with genuine expressions of interest the sale of the property either as a cinema or real estate,” the statement said.

In 2021, the cinema premiered the a documentary film about the life of Australian cinema trailblazer David Dalaithngu.

My Name is Gulpilil premiered at the Cameo Cinema over two nights, with Dalaithngu appearing at both screenings.

At the time, the cinema’s owner, Daryl Kennett, said it was a “wonderful honour” to meet him.

“It was an honour for him to select our cinema for his screenings,” Mr Kennett said.

The cinema met hard times in 2020 and was forced to close for five months due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In 2021, Member for Barker Tony Pasin announced the Cameo Cinema in Murray Bridge had received a grant of $35,000 as part of the Morrison Government’s $20 million SCREEN Fund.

“This funding will enable them to recover from severe disruption that has largely impacted their revenue streams, and work towards restoring normal operations as COVID-19 restrictions ease,” Mr Pasin said.

The Cameo Cinema has been contacted for comment.