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Winton Movies Inc. pays tribute to one of Winton’s best, Peter Evert OA.

On Monday 6 February 2023, we sadly farewelled Peter Evert.

Peter is a true Winton icon and was a stalwart of Outback Queensland Tourism and the Patron of The Royal Open-Air Theatre Winton.

He paved the way for Winton and Outback Queensland tourism, opening doors and welcoming visitors.

The theatre has been owned and operated by the Evert family since 1937.  Peter became the custodian of The Royal Theatre Winton in the early 2000s and in 2018 he supported the establishment of Winton Movies Inc. to preserve, reinvigorate and operate the theatre for future geneations. 

Peter and his brothers Vince and Neale recognised the potential of tourism and events to diversify the economy, build local pride and strenghten the community back in the 1960’s.  

Peter was the first Outback Queensland Tourism Association (OQTA) Chairperson and he was awarded a Life Membership of OQTA in 2015. 

He served on the committee of Winton’s Outback Festival for over 40 years before retiring to the Gold Coast with his wife Joan.  It was amazing to see Peter back in Winton for the Outback Festival’s 50th Anniversary in September last year.

Peter helped ensure the success of the Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival (VSOFF) offering The Royal Theatre Winton in 2014 for opening night and he continued to generously support the festival every year.  Peter believes the festival could one day compare to the Sundance Film Festival in the United States.   

A keen pilot, Peter formed the Pelican Water Flying Club in Winton, and over the years, flew many visitors to experience Winton from above on his flight charters.  He also flew doctors for the QLD Department of Health from Winton to Boulia, helping where he could, to keep Winton and Outback Queensland connected. 

As a leader, a friend, a mate, he was always there for us.