Famed Aussies Kylie Minogue, Naomi Watts, and More Gathered to Raise Money for Bushfire Relief Efforts

There was a spirit of resilience that wafted around Skylight Modern Thursday night as a crowd donning their finest tuxedos and gowns came together for this year’s American Australian Association Art Awards. Pop icon Kylie Minogue and author Peter Carey were recognized as the 2020 honorees, while Euphoria’s Jacob Elordi was bestowed with the Rising Star accolade.

Usually a silent auction fundraiser—with an opulent lot including David Yurman accessories and tickets to the Australian opera—to aid young Australian creatives, last night’s event turned its eye toward the bushfires plaguing the country and directed this year’s proceeds to the relief efforts.

“I don’t think we could be here celebrating much without doing something,” said Minogue in a silken Ralph Russo dress. “The world moves on and we have to continue to inspire others.”

And inspire they did. The night’s guests came from all sectors of the creative industries and included Zendaya (in Christopher Esber), Katie Holmes (in Khaite), Naomi Watts (in Toni Matičevski), George Maple, Deborra-Lee Furness, Jake Shears, Jordan Barrett, Victoria Lee, Anne V, Bridget Malcolm, and other notable Aussies.

Co-honoree, Peter Carey, went on to share with guests how a call to his editor describing the sounds of the animals during the fires elicited a sudden realization that the world will never be the same. But Carey remains optimistic. “If there is one positive thing that is to come from this horrific event, it’s awareness. It’s a wake-up call,” he said.

To lighten the mood, guests were treated to an ethereal performance by singer Maple and a dinner of rosemary lamb loin accompanied by roasted field mushrooms and Jerusalem artichokes, with vegetarian options offered.

Following dinner, a retrospective video of Minogue’s long and fruitful career was projected onstage. From “The Delinquents” to “Can’t Get You Out of My Head,” the crowd bounced in their seats. Toward the end of the night, everyone left unable to get her catchy pop hits out of their own heads—but why would they want to?