As the buzz begins to settle following the Orry-Kelly: Dressing Hollywood Gala on the evening of July 26 at The Sebel Kiama, one unforgettable highlight stands out - a special virtual appearance from Oscar-winning designer Catherine Martin.

While it’s well known that Orry-Kelly held the record for the most Academy Awards won by an Australian for decades (three Oscars for costume design), that title was surpassed in 2013 by none other than Catherine Martin, who now holds four.

Martin - the long-time collaborator and wife of renowned Australian director Baz Luhrmann - has earned international acclaim for her work on films such as Strictly Ballroom, Moulin Rouge!, Australia, The Great Gatsby, and Elvis, with both production and costume design credits to her name. 

She also served as production designer on Luhrmann’s Romeo + Juliet.

In a pre-recorded video message played during the gala, Martin expressed her regret at not being able to attend in person.

“I'm very disappointed not to be in Kiama tonight with you to celebrate the extraordinary life and work of Orry-Kelly,” she began.

She went on to share how she and Luhrmann first discovered Orry-Kelly’s story while guest-editing an early 1990s issue of Australian Vogue.

“One of the central stories tracked his life from Kiama to the glittering lights of Hollywood. He was well known for being able to handle the biggest of divas - even one of my all-time favourite actresses, Bette Davis. He was her favourite costumier,” she said.

“He fits into a wonderful performing arts pantheon of greats that we have here in Australia, and it's wonderful to see him being celebrated in his own hometown.”

Joining Martin in paying tribute on the night were director Gillian Armstrong, producer Damien Parer, playwright Catherine Thomson, and costume designer Wendy Cork.

The evening was a heartfelt celebration of Australian film, honouring the legends - past and present - who have shaped its identity on the world stage.