Today marks 50 years since the Light Electorate Office was first opened in Murray Street, Gawler.
Former Leader of the Opposition and Member for Light, Dr. Bruce Eastick, first opened the office on Monday, 12 August 1974 and returned today for a morning tea and cake to celebrate with former and current staff, including Mrs Barbara Gerlach who worked in the Light Electorate for 16 years and retired in 1993 alongside Dr Eastick.
Current Member for Light, Tony Piccolo MP, sent out the invites and said it was fun to share stories about the building and the politics over the years.
“Staff were commenting on how the building hasn’t changed since they were here and it’s interesting that not much has changed in terms of the types of issues we help our constituents with as well,” said Mr Piccolo.
“It’s important to celebrate how this office came to be and all the people who have made it what it is today – a place our residents come to be heard and resolve their issues.
“During Mr Eastick’s time, his electorate covered as North as Clare and his role as our local veterinarian made him the only one in the North past Gepps Cross.”
“Mr Eastick has done a lot for his community, not only in his professions, but also with the Rotary Club as well – he mentioned he’s the oldest Rotary member for 71 years in the Southern Hemisphere.”
Mr Eastick said opening the office was a new phase in parliamentary life after previously having to deal with local matters from his own home.
“I don’t know where those 50 years have gone, but how little things have changed,” said Mr Eastick.
“It’s been a pleasure to return, and I thank Mr Piccolo and his team for organising this.”
While fellow former MP Malcolm Buckby was an apology for the event, former Light Electorate staffer and current Adelaide Plains Councillor Kay Boon attended and spoke highly of all three MPs over the past 50 years.
“It’s lucky the light electorate has had only three MPs in the past 50 years,” said Cr Boon.
“It’s important to have that consistency within the community, but also says a lot about the respect and admiration for each member and how everyone in the community knows them.”