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Uploaded on: September 17, 2025

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Broadway Theatre 1017 Point Nepean Road, Rosebud, VIC

Photo courtesy of JEAN ROTHERHAM -

Paul Whitaker writes - My Father, Frank, purchased The Broadway when it was about 2 years old. This was while he was driving buses in Whitakers Peninsula Motors later Peninsula bus lines etc.

I didn’t know about the ‘rumble’ fight. There were many incidents during the war years with the ‘Yanks’ and the locals. Probably because they were a favourite with the local girls? Mick Dunk was our revered bouncer. Something about a fight ending on Rosebud Pier with one of the ‘Yanks’ over the side? Anyhow, it became a discotech for a while then the floor was lowered and Wilson’s Music & Variety with Vaughan Wilson and brother Graham. I used to buy my 45’s there.

It’s very pleasing to see the building fully utilised now with retail shops, Colour your Blues, Flight Centre, The Foyer Cafe, The Broadway Bazaar, a Solicitor and Estate Agent.

Take a look inside one day- you can see the original screen curtains, the projection port holes, the wonderful Italian marble floor, the original The Broadway above the verandah and much more to discover. The pressed metal window sills. I found an old Cinema in Yarrawonga recently - it’s almost a sister cinema in construction. So much more in the history of The Broadway Rosebud. John Farnham played his first commercial gig there - the Sadie days… Drop in and say Hi to all the shopkeepers there now. They like to think it’s a privilege to be part of the life of The Broadway! And yes, Dad started the Peninsula Drive- In in 1962, along with partners Ralph & Nelson Wilson.. It’s 61 years old this 21 December. I renamed it Dromana Drive-In in 1989 when I took over. Still in the same family, never closed, Heritage Victoria & National Trust listed. One of 12 in Australia, and 2 in Victoria along with Coburg. So much more I could say! How about some memories from you all?

The years are marching on, memories fading or lost forever. Oh, and to the Peninsula Locals reading this… how many years since you have been to the Drive-In? Why? As every small community says… Use it or Loose it! Come and see us, you will be surprised! Paul.

Contributed by Greg Lynch -