By Mikayla van Loon
Lilydale’s Township Action Group (LTAG) will be bringing an outdoor cinema to town this summer after receiving a grant from the Urban Community Led Recovery Grants Program.
The project, which LTAG have named Fun and Films At The Park, aims to bring families and friends together at Melba Park.
“LTAG had been looking for some ideas to help bring the community together for something fun, especially after the isolation caused by Covid and the June storms,” LTAG president Neal Taylor said.
“The idea of a movie in the park sounded like a great idea, especially since we have such amazing parks like Melba Park and the awesome evenings to enjoy.”
The four initial screenings will be completely free, with a sausage sizzle and snacks provided, alongside some other activities and games to be held in the park.
“The events are designed to be fun and stress free and will provide a social activity for all ages and as it is free, will offer a financially stress-less opportunity for many in our community,” Mr Taylor said.
The $5000 grant LTAG received has allowed them to purchase the projector, screen and sound system which can cater for up to 200 people.
Patrons will need to bring their own camp chair, bean bag or picnic rug to enjoy the film screenings.
Mr Taylor said he and LTAG see this as an ongoing event for Lilydale, perhaps annually or for special occasions.
“This is planned to be an ongoing series of events and it is planned to roll the screenings out in the warmer months of the year,” he said.
“We are [also] considering a Halloween night screening of a horror flick or two in the cemetery with Holy Fools if we get permission.
“This was never intended to be a one year event and is an investment in the community of Lilydale that we love.”
The Urban Community Recovery Committee is supported by Yarra Ranges Council to help with the recovery priorities in the urban parts of the shire.
