What people usually ask IFS
Following are a number of questions that get frequently asked of IFS which should cover most of the general topics. However, if you have a question that is a bit out of the ordinary, contact us via our ticketing system. Just click on the link below and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
What is a not-for-profit organisation such as the Illawarra Film Society (IFS)?
Generally, a not-for-profit is an organisation that does not operate for the profit, personal gain, or other benefit of particular people. This can include people such as its members, the people who run it or their friends or relatives. The definition of not-for-profit applies both while the organisation is operating and if it ‘winds up’ or closes.
An organisation does not fail to be a not-for-profit if it simply provides a benefit to a member while genuinely carrying out its purpose. For e.g. film societies or film clubs are still non-profit organizations because the benefits provided to members (cheap film screenings) are consistent with the purposes of the organisation (to screen films).
Not-for-profits can make profit, but any profit made must be applied for the organisation’s purpose(s). Organisations can retain profits (instead of applying it towards their purpose), as long as there is a genuine reason for this, related to its purpose. For e.g. a good reason to retain money may be to buy new equipment, provide another service to members or accumulate a reserve to ensure an organisation remains sustainable.
An organisation does not fail to be a not-for-profit if it simply provides a benefit to a member while genuinely carrying out its purpose. For e.g. film societies or film clubs are still non-profit organizations because the benefits provided to members (cheap film screenings) are consistent with the purposes of the organisation (to screen films).
Not-for-profits can make profit, but any profit made must be applied for the organisation’s purpose(s). Organisations can retain profits (instead of applying it towards their purpose), as long as there is a genuine reason for this, related to its purpose. For e.g. a good reason to retain money may be to buy new equipment, provide another service to members or accumulate a reserve to ensure an organisation remains sustainable.
How do I contact the Illawarra Film Society?
Easiest way to contact the Illawarra Films Society is via email –
see the following links:
- Theresa Huxtable (IFS President) – Contact Theresa
- Lyn Read (Membership) – Contact Lyn
- Katrina Henze (Treasurer) – Contact Katrina
- Emma Cooney (Secretary) – Contact Emma
Postal Correspondence:
Theresa Huxtable – The President
ILLAWARRA FILM SOCIETY
PO Box U303 University of Wollongong NSW 2522
What if I want to cancel my Membership?
We do not, unfortunately, accept membership cancellations. The reason is that IFS commits to the cost of hiring the cinema, hiring films etc. based on the number of members who have registered and paid. If we do not reach our required number of members we cannot commit to taking on these costs – likewise if we accept cancellations these are membership fees we won’t have.
Membership – can I transfer my membership?
Membership cannot be transferred. Membership of the IFS is managed through the waiting list, as demand for membership often exceeds availability. If you know someone who would like to become a member, please encourage the person to
send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and REQUEST TO BE PLACED ON MEMBERSHIP WAITING LIST. –
Better way to do this would be to allow them to register on the site as an unfinancial member or similar, we then could created a MailChimp group and email them in one go prior to the season opening up again.
send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and REQUEST TO BE PLACED ON MEMBERSHIP WAITING LIST. –
Better way to do this would be to allow them to register on the site as an unfinancial member or similar, we then could created a MailChimp group and email them in one go prior to the season opening up again.
How do I join and pay for my membership?
You join the IFS by registering and paying for a yearly subscription. You may join either online or by post. You can read more about this on the Join-up to the IFS 2018 Membership page.
What if I lose my membership card?
We have a list of current members at the door. If you don't have a card we will check the list and admit you if you are a member (we also check if anyone else is trying to use your card). This takes time and holds up others at the door, therefore we strongly encourage you to contact us and get a replacement card. There is a $20.00 card replacement fee.
If I am not a member can I get in to see just one film?
The only way this can happen is if you can persuade a member who is not coming to you lend you his or her card. You need to arrange this yourself.
You cannot buy a ticket or membership at the cinema door.
Why are there no screenings in the school holidays?
As the cinema often increases their own screening program for school age audiences. In addition, many members often go away in the school holidays – and indeed so do some committee members.
Film Selection – can I suggest a film?
Members are welcome and indeed encouraged to email suggestions for films. Please note though, that one of our objectives is to show newly released films that are not mainstream. As we are aware of these by means of press and media, it is the more unusual or locally/internationally produced films that we would be interested to hear about.
How will I know if I'll enjoy a particular film or if I should avoid it?
IFS provides details about forthcoming films in the program and on the website but it is up to you to research each film for yourself before coming to a screening to see if it might be suitable or not.
Subscriptions – when are subscriptions due?
Membership opens each year on 1 July – we generally send out a reminder that membership is open. This email is sent out before 30th June each year. Subscriptions are due from this time and as it is ‘first in best dressed’, we encourage members to pay their dues as soon as possible. This allows the IFS to commit to cinema hire and other costs. When we reach our full complement of 500 members then the membership will be closed for that year.
How can I apply to become an IFS Committee Member?
The committee is elected at the Annual General Meeting each year. Members of IFS can nominate for a committee position. If you feel you have something to offer the IFS, speak to one of the committee about nominating. The committee seeks people with business and computer skills to run the business of the society. We don’t have a lot of meetings but there are many administrative tasks to attend to, as well as being available at the door for screenings on a regular basis.
How do I get on the IFS waiting list?
The popularity of the IFS is such that most members renew their membership year after year. When we have reached our full complement of 500 we close the membership for the year and those people who have been unsuccessful in securing membership go on a waiting list for the following year. If at any time during the year someone wants to join IFS they are encouraged to email the membership officer who will add their name to our waiting list and they will be contacted by email, just before the opening of the membership for the next year, usually before 30 June, to advise them that membership will be open on 1 July and they can then apply to join. People can also check the website from time to time for notices.
Where and when are films screened?
The Illawarra Film Society screens 30 films in a calendar year.
Films are shown at:
Event Cinemas Wollongong 68 Burelli Street, Wollongong NSW 2500
Sunday Evenings Commencing at 7:00pm sharp
As a member, if I am not coming to a film, can I lend my card to someone else?
Yes. You need to arrange this yourself. They show the card at the door and we will admit them.
Membership
Contact Us
The Secretary
Illawarra Film Society
PO Box U303,
Wollongong University NSW 2500
Enquiries: 0421 655 149