Sun sets on outdoor cinema group

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.