Gulpilil honoured ahead of AACTA Awards

Images of the late icon of cinema were projected onto the sails of the Opera House this week.

There were losses as well, as the nation farewelled one if its finest performers, iconic and legendary actor and dancer David Gulpilil AM. Source: Getty Images AsiaPac

The sails of the Sydney Opera House were adorned with images of another Australian icon, the late actor David Gulpilil AM. 

Gulpilil passed away last week after a three-year battle with lung cancer. 

Scenes from his stellar career were projected in montage on the harbour's famous building, celebrating a life of cinematic greatness that tore down barriers and gifted the country an indelible cultural heritage.

The icon will be posthumously awarded a lifetime achievement award on Wednesday night, at a ceremony in the Opera House. Source: Getty Images AsiaPac

That celebration will continue within the building on Wednesday night, as Gulpilil posthumously receives the Longford Lyell lifetime achievement award. 

It is the premiere award of the Australian Academy of Cinema and Television Arts, one which recognises a truly outstanding contribution to the field. 

The actor's death last week was met with mourning across the country, as well as high praise from the country's screen industry. 

The Northern Territory government is in discussions with Mr Gulpilil's family regarding his funeral.