Mike Rann on 'maestro of the possible' 100 years after Don Dunstan's birth
On a day marking 100 years since the legendary premier was born, another former premier in Mike Rann recalls his own entry to politics under Don Dunstan's leadership.
One hundred years after the birth of South Australia's most influential premier, the state commemorated Don Dunstan's legacy. Under his leadership from 1967-1968 and 1970-1979, Dunstan championed social justice, the arts, and transformed Adelaide into a national cultural center. Former premier Mike Rann highlights Dunstan's unique qualities, describing him as the "maestro of the possible."
Rann's journey to working for Dunstan began when he applied for a job in Dunstan's department after hearing about the resignation of Dunstan's speechwriter. Despite being told he wouldn't get the job, Rann was appointed as Dunstan's press secretary, speechwriter, and head of the government's media operations. Dunstan's flagship reforms included land rights and anti-discrimination laws for Aboriginals, the decriminalization of homosexuality, and liberalization of drinking hours.
Emeritus Professor of Politics and International Relations at Adelaide University, Clem Macintyre, highlights Dunstan's transformative impact on South Australia, making it a pace-setter for reform nationally and internationally. Dunstan's passion for the arts is also celebrated, including the opening of the Adelaide Festival Centre and the establishment of the SA Film Corporation.
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