SYDNEY: Attempts by the state government to ride on the tails of Rosemount Australian Fashion Week fell flat this morning after the event was thrown into darkness.
Impatient buyers were expected to endure delays to the schedule today after a major power blackout in Sydney. The shortage had already disrupted a spring/summer 2009 showcase by womenswear brand Zimmermann, which was scheduled to start at 10.00am.
This was the third blackout to hit Sydney in recent weeks.
The gaff followed a promotional release from the Minister for State Development Ian McDonald this morning, which highlighted the state government's support for RAFW.
Macdonald, who is also the Minister for Energy, said the government had supported the trade event since its inception in 1996 and - through Events NSW - had secured the week for Sydney from 2009 to 2013.
"This is Australia's premier industry fashion event and I am proud to report that 66 out of 110 exhibiting designers are based in NSW, reinforcing our leadership in this creative sector."
Among the labels due to show today were Zambesi, Illionaire, Antipodium and Ellery.