JL Kelly Theatre
The JL Kelly Theatre has long been one of Hinchinbrook’s cultural heartbeats — a place where the community has gathered for generations to watch films, attend school concerts, enjoy live performances and share significant moments together.
Following the February 2025 flooding, the Theatre is currently closed and undergoing remediation and refurbishment works.
A place with a proud history
The building first opened in 1953 as the JL Kelly Memorial Hall, named in honour of James Laurence Kelly, a respected Chairman of the Hinchinbrook Shire Council who served the district over many years.
The Hall was established as a lasting tribute to his leadership, integrity and dedication to the community.
In its early years, the building served multiple purposes:
It quickly became a central gathering place for the Herbert River district, hosting dances, celebrations and social events that brought people together.
From memorial hall to theatre
As the needs of the community evolved, so too did the building.
In 1987, the Hall underwent a major redevelopment and reopened as the JL Kelly Theatre, transforming it into the performance venue many residents know today.
Since then, the theatre has continued to play an important role in the cultural life of the Shire as a cinema and live performance space, reinforcing its place as a much‑loved community landmark.
Council has now progressed past the insurance assessment phase and is moving forward to restore and improve the venue.
All JL Kelly Theatre events at 76 Townsville Road, Ingham have been relocated to Hinchinbrook Shire Hall, 25 Lannercost Street, Ingham until further notice.
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