About the IFS
Established in 2012, the Illawarra Film Society (IFS) is a community-run, not-for-profit organisation and one of the largest film societies in Australia,
We screen a diverse, handpicked selection of films at the Gala Cinema, Warrawong, on Sunday evenings from February to November (with brief breaks for school holidays and long weekends).
They include the best of Australian and world cinema, new releases, must-see classics, cult favourites and compelling documentaries.
The IFS is a member of the Australian Film Societies Federation.
2026 Committee
Jeannine Baker (Chair)
Jeannine is a media historian and university lecturer who has also worked in documentary film production and museums. Jeannine joined the IFS in 2012, and was the curator of the 2023, 2024 and 2026 programs. Jeannine’s favourite films include Stand By Me (1986), Bladerunner (1982) and The Quiet Girl (2022).
Karen Crowe (Deputy Chair)
Karen has 30 years’ experience in film exhibition and education, including university teaching, founding the Illawarra’s Short Sited film festival, and education roles with the UK’s Picturehouse Cinemas and Cambridge International Film Festival. She is Deputy Chair of the IFS and loves film history and the big screen experience.
Ian Fenwick (Treasurer)
Ian has been an IFS member since pre-Covid times and enjoys the opportunity to see and be challenged by movies and their stories that reflect various cultures, that he otherwise might never get to see. With his experience in business systems, Ian helps manage the reporting and system needs of the IFS in the role of Treasurer.
Katrina Henze (Secretary)
Katrina has been an avid film fan since watching Oklahoma (1955) on the black and white TV in the downstairs room. She has been an IFS committee member since its inception in 2012. Her favourite films lean towards the musical – The Sound of Music (1965), The Blues Brothers (1980) and Run Lola Run (1999).
Lea Kirkwood
Lea’s first film experience was watching The Sound of Music (1965) with her mother at Wollongong’s Regent theatre and that set the stage for a love of being immersed in a shared experience on the big screen. The Illawarra Film Society rekindles nostalgia for the Sunday night TV feature film, a childhood delight. Lea’s favourite films include Strictly Ballroom (1992), Lantana (2001) and It Was Just an Accident (2025).
Mandy Shaw
Mandy’s earliest film memories include watching Ben Hur (1959) at the drive-in, in her pyjamas. What a chariot race! She enjoyed a good cry through Love Story (1970) and laughed her way through The Life of Brian (1979). Mandy regards the Illawarra Film Society as an inclusive organisation which contributes to the rich cultural life of the Illawarra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are members guaranteed a cinema seat?
In 2026 the Illawarra Film Society is experiencing our best membership numbers since formation in 2012, and we now have slightly more members than seats. We have monitored attendance on screening nights over many years, and we have never come close to exceeding our seating capacity. We do not envisage any problems accommodating all members and guests in 2026, but a seat cannot be guaranteed should every member and guest turn up.
What other benefits do members get?
We have great guests who come along at various points in the season to share insights about their films. We have opening and closing night celebrations with food and drink provided. And on screening nights, members can show their IFS membership to get 10% off food at the Open Hearth Hotel (around the corner from the Gala), and at the Iron Yampi, Port Kembla.
Can I pay on the night to see a film?
No, sorry. As part of our membership of the Australian Film Societies Federation and our arrangement with film distributors, we can only admit season-ticket members. That is a big part of how we can keep prices so low (at $99 for 32 films, you’d be getting more than your money’s worth if you only came to one film in every three!)
Do you have guest passes?
Yes - all full-season members get two single-entry passes that can be used at any point in the season aside from opening and closing night.
Can someone use my membership if I am unable to attend on a particular night?
Yes, you can allow someone else to attend for that night on your membership. They’ll need to provide your details at the door.
How can I update my contact details?
Let us know your new details at membership@ifs.org.au.
If I cancel my membership, can I get a refund?
No, sorry. We pay the upfront costs of hiring the cinema and licensing films from the membership fees we collect before the season starts.
How can I give you feedback and suggestions?
For membership enquiries or feedback, email membership@ifs.org.au.
For program enquiries, suggestions or feedback, email programming@ifs.org.au.