Wallis Cinema, a prominent name in South Australian entertainment, has disclosed plans for a major expansion at their Mt Barker site. This venture signals an evolution of their existing offerings, which currently include the Wallis Mt Barker Cinemas and the historic Auchendarroch House function and dining venue.
Located in the burgeoning town of Mt Barker in the Adelaide Hills, this development is envisioned as an all-encompassing entertainment hub complete with hotel accommodations and enhanced function facilities. These additions are designed to meet the growing demand for tourist infrastructure and serve conference attendees visiting the region.
The redeveloped site will transform two existing cinemas into a variety of new attractions. These will include arcade games, mini golf, laser tag, bowling alleys, and sensory areas tailored to entertain a diverse demographic, including younger families and teenagers from Mt Barker and the surrounding areas.
Further enhancing Mount Barker’s cultural scene, a new performing arts stage is to be constructed within the cinema complex. This venue will host live performances, concerts, and theatre productions. Additionally, a function centre with the capacity to accommodate over 300 guests will be built, offering adaptable event spaces with scenic views of the locality.
Complementing these entertainment and event facilities, the project also features the construction of a 100-room, four-star hotel. This facility will cater to Mount Barker’s growing visitor economy, providing high-quality accommodation options connected directly to the Wallis Event Centre, which hosts weddings, conferences, and other significant events.
Wallis Cinema’s director, Deanna Wallis, shared her thoughts on the development. “We are thrilled to bring this project to life and offer something entirely new to the entertainment landscape. After over 20 years entertaining the Adelaide Hills, we are excited to be able to offer more for the youth and families in the area and also help bring increased visitation and tourists into Mt Barker,” she stated.
Wallis Cinema is currently engaging with various stakeholders to ensure the project aligns with the wider economic and community development strategies of the region. Key collaborators include the Mount Barker District Council, representatives from both State and Federal Governments, Walter Brooke Architects, Forthwell Pty Ltd, and Savills.
The entertainment and function aspects of the project are scheduled to open in the latter half of 2026, while the hotel is expected to commence operations in 2027. This ambitious redevelopment promises to enhance Mt Barker’s appeal as a premier destination in South Australia for both entertainment and tourism.
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