Crown Aviary played host to IMG’s Tennis elite on Sunday, January 19th. The all-star line-up included local and international tennis players, celebrities, sporting identities and social personalities at its 21st annual Crown IMG Tennis Party on the eve of the Australian Open. Melbourne’s Crown Aviary on the stunning rooftop created an opulent and decadent atmosphere for all that encapsulated Melbourne’s magnificent city views.
The Pre-Australian Open official IMG party included Stan Wawrinka, Grigor Dimitrov, Bernard Tomic, Caroline Wozniacki, Petra Kvitova, Gael Monfils, The Bryan Brothers, Belinda Bencic, Karen Khachanov, Coco Gauff, Sloane Stephens and the Spanish superstar Rafael Nadal.
Nadal told the media – “I’m really excited for the tournament, the one thing I always take home with me from the Australian Open is the love of the people”.
This year’s Moroccan themed party was the most sought-after invitation in town and our favorite stars shone on the red carpet. The guest list included model Jesinta Franklin who said, “it’s quite a miracle that I’m here,” with her and husband Buddy Franklin’s baby due in the coming weeks.
Other well-known names included, Nadia Fairfax, Lindy Klim and husband Adam Ellis, Anna Heinrich, Lana Wilkinson, Olympia Valance, Tim Kano, Jessie Murphy, Kris Smith, and Ajak Deng.
A culinary experience like no other was enjoyed by all with an abundance of food stalls to indulge in including a Moroccan cold mezze table, Marrakech Night Market BBQ, Moroccan pizza oven and a fresh seafood station.
Free-flowing Piper-Heidsieck champagne, Stella Artois beer and Aperol Spritz cocktails kept the A-list guests hydrated while they enjoyed beats from DJ Kitty Kat and vocals from Ruby Cesan accompanied by Saxophonist extraordinaire, Rob Muir.
Written by Melinda Sullivan
Photography Sam Tabone
