Hobart cements its place on Australia’s cultural map, with Mofo and Dark Mofo festivals winning a major gong.

Just days after wrapping up its 2016 season, Hobart’s popular summer Mofo festival has earned a major prize at the Sidney Myer Performing Arts Awards, alongside younger sibling festival Dark Mofo. One of Australia’s most prestigious award ceremonies for the arts industry, the 32nd Sidney Myer Fund Award winners were announced last night at the Sydney Opera House.

The two festivals, which are run by David Walsh’s Museum of Old and New Art (Mona), were named joint winners of the Group Award, with each receiving a $45,000 prize. Judges commented that the Hobart-based events “have captured the imagination of popular and critical acclaim”, which is unsurprising given the latest instalment of the festival of music and art drew crowds of over 40,000.

“To get a call from such a prestigious organisation like the Sidney Myer Fund was very special,” said Dark Mofo creative director Leigh Carmichael in an interview with The Mercury. “To be chosen from the huge amount of cultural activity that is happening all across Australia is humbling, and we’re thrilled.” It’s the latest award...