Fashion TV Diamond Model Awards Grand Final

The fashiontv (FTV) Diamond Model Awards Grand Final was held last Monday night at the prestigious Forum Theatre on a warm Melbourne Cup Eve. Following a national round of preliminary finals, 21 Australian FTV Diamond model finalists, including one wildcard, featured on the runway for the last time in an opportunity to impress the judges. These Diamond Model Award hopefuls were competing for the amazing opportunity for a leading model contract and a photo shoot broadcast on FTV Oceania, a prize valued over $100,000.

Attended by the best of Australia’s fashion and entertainment industries, the fashion citizens of Melbourne we also welcome in an opportunity to support their favourite finalist and celebrate into the night at an official FTV party. Hosted by Mike Goldman, Kasia Z and the gorgeous Kris Smith, each model featured on the runway in evening wear and was asked about their career aspirations and what they were currently working on. Many models were involved in charities and studying but all with a clear objective to be involved in the model industry primarily. From cocktail to maxi-length, the ladies showcased some beautiful gowns and dresses all with a common ‘bling’ theme as off the shoulder straps were lined with diamantes and maxi’s glittered from top to bottom.

Following the evening wear segment, DJ Lorne Padman hit the decks and filled the dance floor as the ladies prepared for the second runway. Dressed in Bernice Sara resort wear and much to the male part of the crowd’s delight, the swimwear runway began. One piece cut-outs featured predominantly and there were many detailed with a diamante brooch and jewelled linings. We then prepared for the final showcase as the models appeared in their FTV dresses and did their last catwalk. Winners were presented with an fashiontv Swarovski Crystal Trophy by FTV Oceania CEO, Aaron O’Donnell and flowers presented by Miss Universe 2008 Laura Dundovic.

The winners were:

2nd runner up – Saasha Burns, Melbourne
1st runner up – Lucy Nicol, Perth
2009 FTV Diamond Model Award Winner – Lucy McIntosh, Melbourne

An ecstatic Lucy (and secretly my favourite!) made one final runway lap with her trophy and was then joined by runners up for the winner’s photos. Lucy won a 12 month modelling contract with Chadwick Models (which was already her agency), a professional photo shoot with a photographer and stylist which will be aired on fashiontv Oceania. The footage may also air on FTV international which is seen in over 220 countries. Both winner and runner up become FTV ambassadors and will attend national FTV events providing network opportunities high profile industry contacts.

So the party began! Dressed in eccentric body suits tucked into denim shorts and jean pockets embroided with their emblem, dancers took stage and performed a spectacular. The beginning of brilliant entertainment, as DJ Havana Brown followed up bringing the crowd back on the dance floor and The Potbelleez entertained us in an amazing performance until 1am.

Upstairs in the VIP room, the celebs mingled as conversations were shared between Laura Dundovic, Susannah Murray, Model Ayla Shepard, footballer ‘Buddy’ Franklin and the Diamond Model finalists.

For a quick re-cap on Melbourne fashion, I witnessed vibrant coloured maxi’s cinched at the waist teamed with chunky sandals and gladiators, metallic mini shift dresses and off the shoulder is still making a bold statement. An amazing evening for Melbourne as fashiontv marked our city on their exclusive party map. Melbourne hosted a stylish and classy atmosphere and an excellent way to celebrate Melbourne Cup Eve. Best wishes to Lucy on embarking on her modelling career, we FTV devotees are all behind you!