Premier Morris Iemma today announced Carla Zampatti as the 2008 Australian Fashion Laureate, coinciding with the start of the inaugural Rosemount Sydney Fashion Festival.
Mr Iemma said the prestigious Australian Fashion Laureate was the highest honour awarded by the Australian fashion industry.
“The Australian Fashion Laureate recognises outstanding creative or intellectual achievement in the Australian fashion industry; a person who has and continues to make a significant contribution to the Australian fashion industry,” Mr Iemma said.
“Carla Zampatti is one of Australia’s most celebrated and iconic designers and NSW is honoured to be able to celebrate her illustrious career.
“Carla is a worthy recipient of the Laureate which celebrates the important role played by fashion in the cultural fabric of New South Wales.
“The Laureate reflects the global standing of the Australian fashion industry and its contribution to our economy, creativity and lifestyle,” he said.
Since launching her first collection in 1965 and opening her first retail boutique in Sydney in 1972, Carla Zampatti has built a successful retail empire with 30 stores nationwide.
She serves on several boards and is an active supporter of many charities.
“To be recognised for outstanding achievement by the Australian fashion industry is an incredible honour and I feel very humbled to be here today accepting this award,” Ms Zampatti said.
“I would like to thank all of those involved, including the Iemma Government through Events NSW and IMG Fashion, for their continued support of the Australian fashion industry.”
Simon Lock, Managing Director of IMG Fashion Asia Pacific, said Ms Zampatti was a shining light in the Australian fashion industry.
“Carla has achieved many milestones over the past 30 years, and continues to be an incredible mentor to our industry,” Mr Lock said.
Events New South Wales and IMG have extended their relationship to secure Rosemount Australian Fashion Week in Sydney from 2009-2013, with an option to extend to 2014 and 2015.
Image: NSW Premier Morris Iemma and Fashion Designer Carla Zampatti winner of the Australian Fashion Laureate 2008 pose with models in the Heritage Ballroom at the Westin Sydney on August 11, 2008 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Gaye Gerard/Getty Images)
