Bowen Cinema Stalwart Turns 90

Ben De Luka has been the face of Bowen Summergarden Cinemas for also 75 years and turned 90 last month. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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Bowen’s longest serving entrepreneur Ben De Luka turned 90 this September, and the much-loved local personality says keeping busy at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema is one of the main reasons for his longevity.  

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“I love my customers, I think they’re God’s gift to any donkey like me!” shared Ben.

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“They’re always grateful to see me still standing up and see the place still going...  

“All my friends of yesteryear, they’re all gone because they retired too early!”

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Known for his charm, quick wit and kindness, Ben can still be found welcoming customers at Summergarden Cinemas in Bowen most days.

Beginning as a trainee projectionist 74 years ago, Ben has been part of the iconic cinema since the age of 16.

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Within 10 years, he purchased the business and has operated it successfully for almost 65 years.

Over this time he has seen significant change.

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“It used to be dirt floor down the sides and bitumen in the middle,” he recalls.

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“Everyday we used to hose the dirt lightly so it couldn’t make a dust storm!

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“It was an open air cinema when I first started and there was a section out the back with an army supply of tarps – customers could run back there when it rained and get cover under a tarp.

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“It was a circus!”

When Ben purchased the business, he saved money to eventually complete a full roof, something the previous owners had started.

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The cinema was a popular place for viewing movies but also live entertainment. One of Ben’s favourite memories was hosting Slim Dusty shows, something he did for 38 years.

“By the end we were good friends,” said Ben.

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Another significant moment was the filming of Australia in 2008.

Ben met Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and the rest of the cast, forming long-lasting friendships with many.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said Summergarden Theatre was a great tourist attraction.

“Many of our visitors go to the theatre, not just for the movies but to check out the memorabilia and to admire the old building,” she explained.  

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“Ben is always very welcoming whenever we recommend our visitors go to the theatre.

“We all wish Ben a very happy 90th birthday – what a fantastic milestone.”  

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After welcoming in his 90^th year on the 18^th September with a surprise birthday party organised by his wife Phyl, Ben says he is looking forward to many more years to come.

And, when asked if he will retire soon, Ben says “no way!”

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