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Monday, 27 February 2012
Page: 1783

Mr CREAN (Hotham—Minister for Regional Australia, Regional Development and Local Government and Minister for the Arts) (15:32): The House will be aware that today this year's Academy Awards have been announced and another Australian has won an award.

Mr Hunt interjecting—

Mr CREAN: I thought that was cause for congratulations rather than mirth. Congratulations go to the Australian editor, Kirk Baxter, who has won the editing Oscar for his work on the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. He was up against some heavy competition because Hugo and The Artist were both considered the favourites. Also, for those who may recall, this is the second Oscar Kirk Baxter has won, because he and his colleague Angus Wall won it last year for their work on The Social Network. This highlights the depth of talent in the Australian film industry. It is not just the people in front of the camera who are winning awards but those responsible for the production, direction and editing. Mr Baxter is one of two Australians nominated for this year's Oscars. I also acknowledge Grant Hill, who is the producer of the Best Picture candidate, The Tree of Life. We wait to hear the outcome of that award.