The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts (AACTA) awards are a continuum of the Australian Film Institute (AFI) awards which recognised screen excellence in Australia since 1958. The first AACTA award had humble origins in that it was presented to a short training film produced by the Federal Government.
The Minister for the Arts Don Harwin made the point that for every dollar the New South Wales Government invested on film and television, the New South Wales economy reaped a benefit of $21.
The Industry Awards recognise film, television and documentary screen craft merit- including cinematography, costume design, editing, music scoring, sports presentation and online video series.
The ACCTA awards this year, in which more than fifty awards were presented, are often referred to as Australia’s Oscars. However in America television’s preeminent programs and production teams are honoured in the Emmy Awards, in Australia the meritorious tv programs and their production teams are honoured at the Industry Luncheon, along with those behind the scenes in the film industry, such that 35 awards were presented, with 43 first time ACCTA Award winners.
The luncheon took place at the Star Event Centre on the 3rd December. It was hosted by ACCTA Award winning actress Kat Stewart and ‘Orange is the New Brown’ comedian Nazeem Hussein. Award presenters included Simon Baker, Stephen and Bernard Curry, Celia Pacquola, Aaron Pedersen, Matt Okine and Leah Purcell.
‘Sweet Country’, ‘Ladies in Black’, ‘Mountain ‘ and ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock’ were the big winners collecting thee Awards each. As has been the case in previous years with expanding categories in film and television as part of their revolution, a new category was introduced for Best Casting.
The stagecraft people were strongly supported by their onscreen counterparts who enjoyed the self deprecating humour of the presenters. Because it was celebrating its diamond anniversary there were also warm hearted elements of nostalgia, camaraderie, genuine self satisfaction, gratitude, and collegiate support.
Featured image – Warwick Thornton
