Outback Arts has proudly announced the purchase of the iconic Plaza Theatre in Coonamble.

In 2024, the work begins to restore and activate the historical facility to create a thriving cultural hub for Outback NSW.

Outback Arts Executive, Jamie-Lea Trindall told the Coonamble Times, “We can’t wait to see this beautiful venue restored to its former glory with a hint of modern life. 

"We hope locals and visitors alike will enjoy everything from movies and events to local and touring performances.

"We want the Plaza to be a place for everyone to love, a place that will attract attention and tours into our Outback region”.

Jamie-Lea has been working with the Board of Outback Arts over many months to secure the purchase of the Plaza with the support of Regional Development Australia - Orana.

The two-tiered theatre was built in 1930 after the fire that ravaged 40 commercial properties in Coonamble in 1929. 

It was built to house 900 people - 400 upstairs and 500 downstairs. The grand foyer leads to an open space of high ceilings and wooden floorboards with a raised stage at the front. There is new ablution block with accessible toilet and a kitchen/residence (the old green room) at the back of the building.

The Plaza was purchased by Coonamble local, Chris Gray, in 2000 after being closed and dilapidated for around 25 years. From 2000 onwards repairs and restorations began on the foundations, plumbing, wiring, plasterwork and more. As an individual, Chris was not eligible to apply for funding, it is believed he invested up to $500,000 of his own money.

Sadly, Chris passed suddenly in 2019 and the Plaza has basically stood empty with only one last production by the Coonamble Amateur Theatrical Society in mid 2019, leaving his life's passion to restore the theatre unrealised.

Chris' brother Phillip (Goose) Gray says that they believe a community-based organisation is well-placed to restore the much-loved building.

"We decided we'd be better off letting it go at a reasonable price to Outback Arts to see what they can do to restore it," he said.

"It needs a lot of work and I'm sure Outback Arts will be able to secure the funding to do it."

Outback Arts is a driving force for arts and culture in the region and will be overseeing the campaign to rejuvenate the Plaza Theatre into a vibrant regional centre for creativity, community engagement, and economic growth. 

Mrs Trindall says that even at this very early stage, local organisations and families have pledged funds towards the acquisition and a fundraising campaign is being launched this month for the restoration and activation of the Plaza.

"Getting this project off the ground is only possible because of the financial support from

"Coonamble Shire Council, Coonamble Amateur Theatrical Society, Streets Ahead and Arts Alive," she said

"We invite anyone interested to donate or get involved."

Contact Outback Arts on (02) 6822 2484