SUNSET Events, operator of Sunset Cinema, has lost the right
to screen outdoor movies in Kings Park.
In what WA Business News understands to be a shock decision
for the WA cinema and events company, the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority
has awarded a three-year contract with a two-year option to Melbourne-based
Moonlight Projects.
The Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority tendered the outdoor
movie contract earlier this year and recently awarded it to Moonlight Projects.
Sunset Events had a five-year contract that expired this
year.
Sunset Events was the pioneer of outdoor movies at Kings
Park, starting operations as Sunset Cinemas six years ago.
Its outdoor cinema business has expanded into Brisbane and
the company also hosts music events and the annual Grass Roots Short Film
Festival.
However, WA Business News understands the next Kings Park
cinema season will be operated by Moonlight Projects, which has outdoor cinemas
in Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.
The business was founded by James Tuttor and Paul Chiodo
eight years ago and, like Sunset Events, has grown to include other businesses.
Moonlight Projects operates drive-in movies, a recording business and also
hosts an annual short film festival.
Sunset Events was established by David Chitty and Andrew
Chernov.
WA Business News understands Sunset Events will continue to
host music events but will not have rights to screen movies for the 2005 summer
season.
Sunset Events declined to comment on the announcement.
