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Don's Party attracts a full house and the Premier

Don Dunstan. Photo courtesy of The Advertiser.

Friday, 6 February 2009

will attend a sold-out party at Norwood Town Hall tonight to mark the 10th anniversary of Don Dunstan's death and the foundation established in his honour.

The , based at the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide, is hosting the 1970s themed event, appropriately titled "Don's Party," in celebration of his achievements and vision as the State's highest-profile Premier.

Legendary ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥n author and playwright has penned a special "Ode to Don" to be performed by a guest artist at tonight's party, with Premier Rann giving the keynote address.

The Executive Officer of the Foundation, Claire Bossley, says Don's Party is the first of a series of events planned in 2009 to commemorate one of the most visionary premiers in ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥'s history.

"Don Dunstan's era is remembered for huge social gains in anti-discrimination, multiculturalism, Aboriginal land rights, Constitutional reform, the arts, consumer protection and a lot more. In much of that reform, South ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ led the country," Ms Bossley says.

"When he was dying, Don Dunstan was concerned that there was still much to be done to create a just and vibrant society and it is our role to keep working to keep his vision alive."

Other events planned for this year include:

• The Dunstan Dialogues: a number of high-profile ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ns will debate the topic "Leadership and the Gift of Lousy Times" in August in an entertaining, hard-hitting exchange reminiscent of the Dunstan era;

• A reconciliation oration is scheduled for the end of May to coincide with Reconciliation Week;

• A special function for women to celebrate Dunstan's legacy re anti-discrimination and equal pay legislation;

• A corporate fundraiser will also be held to raise awareness and funds for issues championed by Dunstan.

The Don Dunstan Foundation is jointly funded by the ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ of Adelaide, and the . Current projects are centred on homelessness, Aboriginal employment and refugees.

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