Gala and Awards Evening 3rd Place
2nd Place
Tracey Tau – ‘Where the Ocean Dreams’
Catherine Storm – ‘Spellbound’
People’s Choice Award Sue Younis
People’s Choice Award
Kelly Maskell
MILLINERY AUSTRALIA DESIGN AWARD
by Lauren Ritchie
The Millinery Australia Gala was held on Friday, 3 July 2026, at The Bank on Collins in Melbourne. The evening was a spectacular celebration of creativity, craftsmanship,
and community, bringing together established milliners, emerging talent, industry supporters, media, and millinery enthusiasts from across Australia to mark another exceptional year of competition. Guests enjoyed an inspiring showcase of award-winning designs, while the room sparkled with remarkable headwear, heartfelt applause, and the shared passion that defines the Australian millinery community. The Design Award was judged by Hall of Fame member Sandra Forrester, milliner and associate member Catherine Kelly, and VRC Events Producer Christy Lougoon. The remaining Top 10 finalists were Julia Watson, Christine Waring, Robynne Dowd, Felicity Northeast, Lynette Lim, Sue Younis, and Kelly Maskell. The evening also honoured the outstanding
contribution of Catherine Kelly, Sydney, who was inducted into the Millinery Australia Hall of Fame in recognition of her dedication, generosity, and tireless commitment to the Australian millinery industry. Her passion for education, mentorship, and the advancement of millinery has enriched the community and inspired countless makers. Now in its eighth year, the Millinery Australia
Student Award continues to highlight the skill and innovation of emerging milliners. Led by Georgia Skelton, the 2026 theme, Curiosity, was judged by Hall of Fame recipient Michele Cameron, Treasurer Lynette Lim, and member Fiona Cooper. Michele also presented the Mary Lock Encouragement Award. First Place went to Uri Bouman for Before the Search Bar, Second Place to Pam Kelly for Ah, Gotcha, and Third Place to Rachael Fenselau for Ersatz, who also received the Encouragement Award.
More information
www.millineryaustralia.org
Student Award
Uri Bouman – ‘Before the Search Bar’
Photographer’s Pic Award Jo Peterson’s – ‘Kaleidoscope’
Inspired by her fascination with fairytale villains, Rose’s design paid tribute to the wicked Queen from Snow White and her infamous poisoned apple
1st Place
Rose Hudson – ‘Grimhilde’
Patron’s Pick (‘Jonesy’) Award Lynette Lim – ‘Bloomspell’
august 2026 | 11
2026
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