Vale: Carla Zampatti

Former SBS Board member and legendary fashion designer Carla Zampatti has died, aged 78.

She died after a fall whilst attending the premiere of La Traviata last week.

On social media, her daughter Bianca Spender paid an emotional tribute to her mother.

Carla’s daughter Bianca said she was heartbroken at the death of her mother.

“Today I lost my mother, my inspiration, my mentor and my friend,” she wrote.

“I am lost for words and totally heartbroken.”

SBS has issued the following statement.

SBS is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of its former Chair, Carla Zampatti AC.

Ms Zampatti served on the SBS Board as Chair for ten years (1999-2009), drawing generously on her extensive business leadership experience to help steer the organisation through a decade of great change in the media industry.

During her tenure, Ms Zampatti and her fellow Board members oversaw significant moments in SBS’s 45-year history. She was a passionate advocate for SBS and its unique role in the media landscape, including through its in-language services, so vital in helping new migrants navigate and participate in Australian life.

Having migrated herself as a young child, settling in Australia with her family, Ms Zampatti truly believed in SBS and its purpose and was committed to promoting greater understanding of and between Australia’s diverse communities.

Carla will be remembered as an extraordinary leader, and a legend in Australian business. She was a well-respected member of the SBS Board, with great nous, energy, resilience, and creativity, and whose contribution was valued enormously.

SBS passes on its deepest sympathies to Carla’s family, friends and all who loved her.

ABC Chair Ita Buttrose also said Carla Zampatti put Australian fashion on the map where previously Australians had looked overseas.

“You could buy something a few years back and still wear it a few years forward. She designed clothes that were feminine and appealing to women,” Ms Buttrose said.

“I think that is why she had such a wide appeal. I know she dressed Princess Mary of Denmark. I know that Joan Collins considered getting some outfits when she visited Australia last. Delta Goodrem is also a Carla Zampatti wearer. She was a pioneer.”

Source: ABC News