Cinema closes, enters voluntary liquidation

REGENT Cinemas has entered voluntary liquidation, as of Tuesday.

The historic movie theatre and Lydiard Street icon, which has been run by Steve Anderson and family for decades, closed effective immediately on Monday.

On the business’ Facebook page, management confirmed the shut-down.

“It’s with a great amount of sadness that we have taken the decision to cease operations effective immediately,” the statement said.

“We have arrived at this point after a great deal of consideration and as result of a number of factors that have contributed to the heart breaking decision to close the business.

“We would like to thank the Ballarat community for their support over the years.”

The second Poco Film Festival was set to be held in the Regent’s grand Cinema 1 in August, and organisers said they’re seeking an alternative venue.

“We regret to announce that Ballarat’s own Regent Cinemas have closed their doors indefinitely,” Poco organisers said. “This is a significant loss for our city, as the cinema held a special place in the hearts of many Ballarat residents and beyond.

“Despite this, we want to assure everyone that the Poco screening will still take place at a new venue, which will be announced soon.”

Ballarat’s remaining movie theatre is Showbiz Cinemas at Delacombe Town Centre.