Movies Return to Yass after 50 Years

An Historic Theatre, a New Screen, and a Community’s Dream Revived

For the first time since 1974, films will once again light up the screen at the Liberty Theatre — an historic, community-run treasure in the heart of Yass. Thanks to the tireless efforts of volunteers, supporters, donors and the NSW Government through Create NSW, the theatre has successfully installed a brand-new, state-of-the-art cinema screen, bringing cinema back to a venue that hasn’t shown a movie in over five decades.

Proudly funded by NSW Government
 

A Cinematic Homecoming

The last film rolled through the projector at the Liberty Theatre in 1974. Since then, the theatre has become a beloved space for live performances, community events, and local gatherings. Now, with the addition of a high-definition cinema screen and modern projection equipment, film is returning to its rightful place at the heart of this historic venue.

“This is more than an upgrade — it’s a revival,” says Bimbi Turner, Chair of Friends of the Liberty Theatre. “Generations have passed since our last screening. To bring movies back to this space, with the support of the community and Create NSW, is truly something special.”

As a community-run, volunteer-led non-profit, the Friends of the Liberty Theatre relies on the dedication and passion of local residents. The return of cinema was made possible by the support of the NSW Government through Create NSW.

“Yass holds the Liberty Theatre close to its heart and I am so excited proud to see such significant investment in this iconic building to allow increased use by the community,“ Wendy Tuckerman MP for Goulburn said.

“The Friends of the Liberty Theatre have really done the hard work to give the community something they’ve wanted for a long time and this funding is a step to acknowledge this hard work.”

Historic Charm, Modern Experience

The new screen and projection system provide a crystal-clear, immersive viewing experience while staying true to the theatre’s original architecture and art deco aesthetic. Whether it’s a classic film, indie gem, or special event screening, every visit will feel both timeless and new.

About the Liberty Theatre

The Liberty Theatre opened in December 1939, seating 695 people on two levels. Designed by architects Crick and Furse, a noted firm responsible for many cinemas in NSW. Cinemascope was installed in 1956. It was offered for sale in 1965 and closed as a cinema in 1974. Now the Theatre is being restored by countless volunteer hours, and an unwavering belief by the Friends of the Liberty Theatre.

How You Can Support

  • Volunteer: Join the team that made this happen

  • Donate: Help us maintain the screen and grow our programming

  • Share the Story: Let your friends and family know — movies are back in town!

What We’ve Achieved

Thanks to Create NSW the Friends of the Liberty Theatre have purchased a new projector, drop-down movie screen and upgrades to the auditorium.

New trusses have been installed around the auditorium which enables sound and lighting equipment, and heat resistant wool curtains to be hung - improving acoustics of our auditorium.

Electrical work has been completed to enable new lighting, three-phase power and emergency exit signage.

State-of-the-art audio and visual equipment will allow the theatre to be used for cinema, live performances and as a multi-purposed community facility.

This project is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.