Mitch Matters: Head to Dromana Drive-In for a great film, Chev Burger and a lime milkshake
Columnist Peter Mitchell loves heading to Dromana Drive-In not just for the films and great atmosphere — the treats on offer in the classic diner are seriously tempting, too.
South East
Don't miss out on the headlines from South East . Followed categories will be added to My News.
One of the easiest ways for me to re-live childhood memories is for my family and I to jump in the car and head for the drive-in at Dromana.
The trick is to choose a movie we’re all keen to see, but once we’ve done that it’s a great night out.
As a youngster growing up in Frankston, the drive-in theatre in Skye Rd was where I enjoyed most of my silver-screen experiences.
In 1966, when Frankston was officially proclaimed a city, there were no less than 19 drive-ins operating across Greater Melbourne.
The idea originated in the United States, and eventually caught on here.
Among its advantages was that a family with a baby could take care of their child while watching a movie.
Of course, teenagers with access to a vehicle found drive-ins much more private venues than regular theatres.
At the good drive-ins, there was always a well-built playground at the base of the enormous silver screen, where children could release all their energy in preparation for sitting still for at least 90 minutes.
And before the feature started there was still time to dash to the kiosk for an ice cream or hot takeaway food, depending on the weather.
Like the vast majority of drive-ins around Melbourne, the one at Frankston with its large parcel of land was gobbled up by developers for housing.
It’s reassuring to know that will never happen at Dromana. The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) classified the drive-in in 2007.
It’s still a great way for a family to see a movie, even during the cooler months.
And judging by its popularity over summer, the demand is still there, as it is open seven nights a week.
For school terms two, three and four, the drive-in is closed on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.
It originally opened in 1961 as the Peninsula Drive-In, with space for 485 cars. Another screen was added in the 1990s from the Hoyts drive-in that was closing at Altona, and Dromana then became a triple-screen venue early this century; the two added screens were located in the rear corners.
The 1960s and ‘70s screens have light steel frames, while the last screen added is on a steel portal frame.
In 1999, the car speakers, but not the speaker posts, were replaced with sound channelled via FM to car stereos.
The combination diner and projection booth is an extension of the first simple skillion-roofed shed, with 1950s-style interiors.
The ticket booths at the entrance are also simple square structures.
There’s also a prime example of an early neon sign that simply says ‘Peninsula’ located behind the south screen.
A good tip to remember when heading to Dromana is to allow yourself plenty of time.
Many people assume they can get in just before the advertised starting time. On busy nights, this can slow down entry and you may miss the start of your movie.
The drive-in has always operated on a first-in, first-served basis. The earlier you are, the more chance you have of picking the best parking spot.
MORE MITCH: HISTORY YOU CAN SINK YOU TEETH INTO
HIGHS AND LOWS OF MATTHEW FLINDERS’ LIFE
YOU JUST CAN’T BEAT A RED HILL APPLE
You’re even allowed to bring your dog, as long as your pet stays in the car — the drive-in is definitely not a dog walking area.
Any trip to Dromana is not complete without a visit to the classic diner where you can view the drive-in’s memorabilia or play the pinball machine or jukebox.
You may even be interested in a freshly cooked Chev Burger and a lime milkshake!
Happy viewing!
Twitter: @Peter_Mitchell7
Instagram: @peter_mitchell7
Facebook: Peter Mitchell