Byline: BRIDIE SMITH

HE has played speech therapists and pianists on the big screen and is currently treading the boards as Lady Bracknell for the Melbourne Theatre Company. But next year actor Geoffrey Rush will have a new role to play, as the 2012 Victorian Australian of the year.

The award, announced last night, recognises a career studded with international highlights - including the acting trifecta of an Academy Award, a Tony Award and an Emmy.

The gong also pays tribute to the 60-year-old's commitment to the arts in Australia, particularly his mentoring of young actors. Rush was unable to attend the ceremony last night, as it coincided with the...