THE absence of a cinema in Queanbeyan has been ongoing bugbear for residents but Jerrabomberra businessman Phil Nichols has the solution to that old problem.
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Mr Nichols, owner of Canberra Indoor/Outdoor Cinemas, is bringing the cinematic experience to this side of the border.
Customers can hire a 2.5 - 3 metre screen that comes complete with blu-ray DVD player, projector and surround-sound system for a night of entertainment in their own backyard. A popcorn machine is also available to rent for a truly authentic experience at the movies.
A backyard cinema takes the hassle out of the movie-going experience, Mr Nichols said. Forget about jostling for a parking spot, queuing up for a ticket or trying to pick a movie from a limited selection. He said you can indulge in your guiltiest pleasures like those cheesy '80s movies or do justice to your action flicks on the big screen.
"It gives you the freedom to have a movie night at your place. Play the movie you want, when you want and still have the full cinematic experience with quality sound and viewing," he said.
"Instead of being stuck inside, you can simply inflate the screen and insert your DVD of choice. Rug up and grab a bean bag and enjoy a movie underneath the stars.
"It only takes about 20 minutes to set up."
Gaming consoles like Xbox, PS3 and Wii can also be connected to take the gaming experience to the next level.
The setup is also capable of USB and television connection so sports lovers can enjoy their favourite match live and on a grand scale.
"If things kick off, I'll extend to a five or six metre screen where it allows up to 1000 people to view it," he said.
"That's a proper outdoor setup that could go somewhere like Queanbeyan Park. It would be great to get a regular Friday movie night going."
Pricing starts at $250 and Mr Nichols said the concept is ideal for backyard parties, sleepovers, work functions, sporting events and fundraisers. In case of wet weather, the screens can easily be taken indoors and set up somewhere like a garage.
Mr Nichols established the Jerrabomberra-based business about eight months ago and originally got the idea from a friend who offered a similar service in Darwin.
"We had a party up there and he brought one of his screens along. We sat in the pool and spa watching a movie and it was really enjoyable," Mr Nichols said.
"We have a bit of a climate change here in Queanbeyan and Canberra. We haven't got thunderstorms and rainy nights.
"It's clear and cold so you can sit outside, rugged up and watch a movie in your own backyard."
For more information visit www.canberraindooroutdoorcinemas.com or contact Phil Nichols on 0418 939 470.
