[press release from Spectrum Communications]
The Australian Interactive Media Industry Association (AIMIA), Australia’s peak industry body for digital and interactive content, has tonight honoured the 24 winners of its 15th annual AIMIA awards at a glitzy ceremony bringing together over 700 industry leaders at Sydney’s Australian Technology Park.
Hosts Adam Spencer and Airlie Walsh kept the crowd entertained and the evening did not disappoint, with a capacity crowd of members and guests.
Returning AIMIA president Guy Gadney used his speech to highlight how rapidly business models are changing and the need for the digital industry to promote new revenue opportunities.
The twenty-four winners this year beat out stiff competition from a record breaking number of entries, up 15 per cent on last year. This comes on the back of its latest Digital Service Index, which predicts revenue generated through digital services in Australia will rise close to 25 per cent in 2009.
The ‘Amys’ continue to expand with over 21 categories represented in 2009, ranging from retail to government, sport to content for children.
John Butterworth, AIMIA CEO, said, "Digital continues to grow beyond marketing and advertising and has quickly established itself as the medium of trust for commerce and government. These awards prove that with representation this year from major banks, the defence department, large retail brands, and leading NGOs including the United Nations.
"The winners and finalists this year have shown how strong the depth of talent is in Australia. Tonight we have seen a showcase of ground-breaking work in online advertising, education, mobile and entertainment.
"It may be Black Friday, but tonight we are celebrating Australian innovation. It’s this strength of ideas and execution that will help us weather the current economic climate and emerge as a stronger industry. Tonight’s awards are one way we can measure the success of Australia’s digital economy and the bright futures of our digital talent."
Supporters of AIMIA Include Gold Patron: BigPond, Offical Hosting Partner: Macquarie Telcom, Media Partner: Digital Media, Silver Patrons: KPMG, Hyro, Australian Peal Divers, Spectrum, Microsoft, New South Wales Department of State & Regional Development, Ogilvy, Tresscox, IBM, Intel and I-Nex, Bronze Patrons: The Australian Channel and Viocorp and Awards Sponsors: BBC.com, IBSA, Jmango, LaVolta and Nett.