Mr Harms has hired nine local staff and engaged local businesses to enhance the cinema, which had been closed since January.

Locals took to Facebook to express support and excitement when the re-opening was announced.

"What a fantastic result for Katherine! I wish the new owners the very best," one said.

"How wonderful is this news for the town," said another.

Despite 83 uniformly positive comments, however, just "15 or so" people attended over the opening weekend.

Mr Harms says it does make him nervous but he still has faith in the community-based business model he has put in place.

"We've got two local staff in their twenties who have really stepped up and I'm incredibly fortunate to have them," he said.

"The other seven are all from the high schools and they came in, presented themselves well with their resume so good on them.

"They give me a great feeling because they're motivated and willing, but yes the opening weekend has made me quite nervous.

"I've had to finance this without any support from the banks given this COVID situation so I am heavily invested in making it work," Mr Harms said.

For screening details, head to their Facebook page.

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