Goodness Enterprises has shifted its focus toward community support in Ipswich, following the closure of the Tivoli Drive-In and the sale of part of its Chuwar property.
Community Focus Takes Priority in Ipswich
Goodness Enterprises and Tivoli Social Enterprises are now directing their efforts toward community needs, moving away from entertainment after the Tivoli Drive-In ended operations. The organisation is prioritising food assistance, youth employment pathways, koala conservation and support for vulnerable residents across the region.
This change in direction follows operational pressures that affected the venue’s long-term viability, including increasing costs, reduced attendance and extended periods of wet weather.
Background and History of the Tivoli Site
The Tivoli Drive-In opened in 1976 in Chuwar and operated until 2000. It was later purchased and reopened in 2008 with a focus on affordable family entertainment. Earlier weekly attendance exceeded 300 families, though recent numbers had fallen below 100.
The cinema’s closure was confirmed in November after identifying close to $1 million in required maintenance and upgrades, including ageing projection equipment and carpark works. A run of storms and forecasts of a wet summer contributed to the decision.
Industry Pressures and Changing Habits
Reduced new cinema releases and the growing popularity of streaming services affected audience numbers in recent years. These pressures reflect wider industry changes, with five drive-in cinemas remaining across Queensland compared with more than 50 during the 1960s.
Land Sale and Plans for a Central Ipswich Hub
To support community programs, eight acres of the 20-acre Tivoli site have been sold to help fund a new centrally located community centre in Ipswich. The hub will provide space to warehouse food supplies, operate a community supermarket and expand outreach efforts. The shift positions the organisation closer to the Ipswich CBD, with the new centre planned for 2026.
The remaining 12 acres of the Tivoli property, together with an additional 30 acres of neighbouring land purchased by the organisation, will support koala conservation and a First Nations heritage area. Employment training for young people, including those facing barriers to work, will continue.
Community Need in the Ipswich Region
The Tivoli food co-op currently supports between 3,000 and 5,000 people each week. The greater Ipswich and West Moreton area is estimated to have between 138,000 and 145,000 food-vulnerable residents. Homelessness in the region has risen at a rate higher than elsewhere in Queensland.
Local Sentiment
Residents who regularly visited the Tivoli Drive-In expressed disappointment at the closure, noting its accessibility and suitability for families. Many had attended for years and viewed it as a convenient community activity.
Ongoing Operations on Site
The Tivoli food co-op continues to operate from Tuesday to Saturday. The organisation is also selling remaining memorabilia from the drive-in, including speakers. Public garage sales will be held at 50 Coal Road, Chuwar, on 29 November, 6 December and 13 December.
What Lies Ahead
Goodness Enterprises will continue expanding its community programs, with further updates expected on the koala conservation park and the opening of the new Goodness Centre in 2026. Long-term plans include supporting up to 100,000 people weekly through expanded food distribution.
Published 25-Nov-2025
