10 Years On: Southbank lights up for AIDS 2014

In what was otherwise a great cause for celebration, the launch of Melbourne’s AIDS 2014 experience on Friday, July 18, was marred by a shocking tragedy.

Less than a day out from the official opening of the 20th international AIDS conference, the world was brought to a stand still after 298 lives were lost on board flight MH-17. The news was only made worse for organisers, with seven passengers said to have been traveling to Melbourne to take part.

Speaking at the launch of a special digital art installation at Southbank’s Hamer Hall, Victorian Premier Denis Napthine was among a number of distinguished figures to pay tribute.

“The lighting up of Hamer Hall celebrates the many great achievements that have been made by scientists, researchers, sociologists and advocates around the world.” he said.

Among the high-profile advocates to visit Southbank included former US President Bill Clinton, Sir Bob Geldof and the head of UN AIDS Michael Sidibe. •