A torrential storm described as a one in a century storm for November (though the last one was in 1984) smashed Sydney and potentially threatened the Aria awards Red Carpet. Rather than holding it at the usual Pirrama Road entrance, workers toiled furiously to erect the media walls and carpets at the front entrance of the Star. It worked so well it might be held there again next year.
Despite the heavy clouds many stars emerged to participate in the Aria awards ceremony. There were many international guests including Sir Bob Geldof, US crooner Richard Marx and pop Brit sensations, Rita Ora and George Ezra.
The event was compered by Keith Urban and with him came the extra bonuses of his singing and the support of his wife Nicole Kidman, who also brought along her niece, Lucia Hawley. Big winners included Amy Shark, 5 Seconds of Summer, Pnau, Courtney Barnett, Vance Joy and breakthrough artist Ruel.
Jimmy Barnes won his first Aria as a solo artist for his album Working Class Boy. Justine Clarke won best children’s award and Gurrumul Djrimirri posthumously received a best independent release Aria for his Child of the Rainbow album.
Kasey Chambers and the Fireside Disciples won Best Country album for Campfire. In addition Kasey was inducted into the Aria Hall Of Fame, thereby becoming the youngest female artist to receive this honour.
Featured image Rita Ora. All pics by Ben Apfelbaum.
