Simpson and Veronicas lead Aussie MTV winners
American pop star Ashlee Simpson and newcomers The Veronicas were the big winners at the MTV Australian Video Music Awards (AVMAs) yesterday, picking up two awards each.
Simpson, who also hosted the star-studded ceremony at Sydney's Superdome, was a shock winner in the Best Female Artist category, beating Madonna, Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson and Australian star Missy Higgins, as well as taking home Best Pop Video for Boyfriend.
Twins sisters Lisa Marie and Jessica Louise Origliasso, who form The Veronicas, won Spankin' New Artist and Video Of The Year for 4ever.
Despite leading with nominations in five categories, Madonna failed to win any trophies.
A host of international stars, including James Blunt, The Darkness and Snoop Dogg, performed at the event, and also walked away with one gong each.
Meanwhile, former Midnight Oil rocker Peter Garrett, who is now the Australian Labour Party politician for Kingsford Smith, New South Wales, won the Free Your Mind award for his environmental campaign.
