Fun, healthy entertainment for the family

A rug under the stars, and the kids enthralled by the huge screen in front of them… it’s another free night of family entertainment in Tickle Park.

While the rain cancelled December’s movie night, it hasn’t dampened the enthusiasm of two “big time” locals who are bringing fun, healthy entertainment to Coolum.

Gaye Williams and David Pocock, who run The Shop on The Esplanade, believe Tickle Park is a prime position for showing free movies.

“It’s something we’ve always wanted to do,” Gaye said. “When the kids were little, they used to sit in the aisles in the old cinema which now houses the Community Centre.”

Gaye was spurred into action following comments by a customer that “more exciting things are happening in Caloundra.”

At the first Coolum Beach Flicks movie ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ in November, Gaye admitted she expected about 50 people to turn up. Instead, more than 500 people jammed into Tickle Park for the free movie night.

“We see this as an ongoing (monthly) event, which could hopefully be expanded to include roving entertainment before the movie,” Gaye said.

“The biggest feedback we’ve had was for kids’ movies, which is why we picked ‘The Polar Express’ for December.”

She said selected movies would be PG-rated to cater for families. “And they’ll always be free.”

To celebrate Elvis Presley’s birthday, Coolum Beach Flicks has lined up ‘Blue Hawaii’ on Sunday, 23 January, (moved from the 9th due to rain) starting at 7pm.  Bring a rug or folding chairs, food and drinks - or pick up something ready made from the nearby shops. Oh, and don’t forget the kids.