Australian academy presents first AACTA Awards; Cinematographer Don McAlpine honoured

Australian cinematographer Don McAlpine (ACS/ASC) received two standing ovations after tributes from longtime colleagues Jack Thompson and Bruce Beresford  at the inaugural Australian Academy Cinema Television Arts (AACTA) awards yesteryday.

McAlpine was awarded the coveted Raymond Longford Award for a lifetime achievement in cinema. McAlpine’s career spans over 50 films including Moulin Rouge and William Shakespeare’s Romeo + Juliet, Breaker Morant and most recently Mental.

The ceremony, hosted by Sigrid Thornton, was the first for the newly formed academy. The ceremony also included the announcement of the Australian academy’s international awards to recognise excellence in film. The announcements were made during a live cross to actress Jackie Weaver at the G’Day USA Gala in Los Angeles.

Further awards for both Australian cinema and TV and the international awards will be presented on January 31 at the Opera House.