Telethon Community Cinemas

Telethon Community Cinemas Founder, Ken Gibbons OAM, was named a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) on Australia Day.

"I was honoured, and greatly humbled, by the bestowing by the Governor-General of a Medal of the Order of Australia upon me for my efforts over the years in contributing to cinema in the community and fundraising in general”.

“I accepted the honour on behalf of the many thousands who have assisted me along this journey, be they family, friends, strangers or sponsors, in accomplishing that which has been recognised.
It is something that, in my younger years, I would never have believed possible."

“It is this, perhaps, that has underpinned my belief that everyone should strive to make society a better place than they found it. I am extremely thankful that many wonderful, and amazing, people have embraced my little contribution to achieving this."

"I hope my honour will help my efforts in having that Award, and its recipients, recognised once again."

"From performing puppet shows as a kid in the backyard shed through to Movies by Burswood, I honestly see nothing extraordinary in myself for what I have done. There are many tens of thousands What I do find extraordinary are those people and entities who have joined me on the journey (a bit like those who joined Forrest Gump in his journey across the USA happy to be there)."

"I stand atop the shoulders of the many who have supported, and underpinned, my efforts over the decades. That is the true honour that this Award encompasses. Thank you."

We're entirely volunteer-run, with all profits donated to charity - over $13m over the 25 seasons.

Thanks to everyone who supported us this season - stay tuned for our 2027 season, launching in October and screening from November 2026.