And the winner is...

Pictured:  Templeton Prize Winner MichaÅ‚ Heller

Our society is obsessed with Awards.  We have to know who is the best at doing something. Anything.  The earliest evidence of an awards ceremony was discovered in 1964. Archaeologists in East Africa unearthed the remains of a small hominid, believed to be Homo habilis, clutching a trophy like stone with some engraved markings etched on the base.  It has been hypothesised that the award was for technological advancements in stone tool making.

Wikipedia quotes a comprehensive list of awards and prizes.  There are awards for doing good deeds, science and technological breakthroughs, sporting achievements, arts, culture, even awards for those who are but merely the best looking people of all time.  But the award that brings the highest financial reward is the “Templeton Prize for Progress Toward Research or Discoveries about Spiritual Realities”.  What a mouthful.  But it carries a $1.6 million dollar price tag.  Yes, I said million.  

The 2008 winner was MichaÅ‚ Heller who has a Ph. D. in Cosmology.  He won the Templeton for his extensive philosophical and scientific probing of big questions, specifically his advancement in reconciling the known scientific world with the unknowable dimensions of God.

But before you ladies rush out there to find out if he’s single, you won’t see him spending up big in Vegas.  Heller is establishing himself an institute to further reconcile science and theology.

Awards ceremonies and prizes are a great way for people to recognise the talents and achievements of people who have dedicated their time and passion to a greater goal.  On Saturday 21st March, the WA Screen Awards will be held at the Octagon Theatre at UWA.  It’s a great opportunity to meet some of the most talented people in the industry and see who will take home the highest honours of Outstanding Contribution to the Industry and Young Filmmaker of the Year.  Tickets are available from www.bocsticketing.com.au.