The Sapphires sweep 2nd AACTA awards

The songbirds were singing in Sydney last night, where local hit The Sapphires concluded its victory lap with an impressive haul of 11 awards at the 2nd annual AACTAs.

The Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts deemed The Sapphires the Best Film of the Year, and also bestowed upon Wayne Blair the prize for Best Direction.

Stars Deborah Mailman, Chris O’Dowd, and Jessica Mauboy were named Best Actress, Actor, and Supporting Actress, respectively.

Keith Thompson and Tony Briggs picked up the Best Adapted Screenplay gong, bringing their tally for the evening to six.

The Sapphires had previously won five technical awards handed out in a ceremony earlier in the week.

Wish You Were Here grabbed Best Original Screenplay, shared by director Kieran Darcy-Smith and his wife/leading lady Felicity Price, and Best Supporting Actor, taken home by Antony Starr.

Saskia Rosendahl was recognised as the Best Young Actor for her work in Lore.

The late Sarah Watt was posthumously awarded the Byron Kennedy Award.

Over in TV land, Puberty Blues was called the Best Drama Series, while Howzat! Kerry Packer’s War won Best Telefeature or Mini Series.

The ceremony was hosted by Russell Crowe.