The City of Playford marked Elizabeth's 70-year anniversary on Sunday with a civic ceremony at Playford Gardens, acknowledging a significant milestone for a town that has grown from proud beginnings into the vibrant heart of northern Adelaide.
Officially inaugurated by Sir Thomas Playford in 1955, Elizabeth was named in honour of Queen Elizabeth II. It was established as a satellite city, purpose-built to attract British migrants and support South Australia's rapid industrial growth in the post-war era.
Sunday's civic ceremony included the ceremonial cutting of a cake by Mayor Glenn Docherty - a nod to the moment Sir Thomas Playford named Elizabeth seven decades earlier.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on Elizabeth's legacy and its continuing role as the regional centre of northern Adelaide.
"Elizabeth was established as a new town to bring about prosperity and opportunity for South Australia," Mayor Docherty said.
"Seventy years on, we're once again experiencing strong growth and transformation across our region. Our community remains at the heart of that story. It's important we pause to celebrate who we are, where we've come from and where we're going."
To continue the 70th anniversary celebrations, a week of activities will acknowledge Elizabeth's proud history and the people who have defined it. The community is invited to enjoy a free public display of photographs and memorabilia at the Playford Civic Centre and a storytelling Q&A with three generations of locals at The Shedley Theatre. The Grenville Hub will host a sold out High Tea event on Friday.
"Elizabeth has always been about it's about people, with a strong community spirit giving people with ambition an opportunity and a go," Mayor Docherty said. "As we look forward, Elizabeth as part of the City of Playford will continue to be the heart of
northern Adelaide, supporting a population of more than 500,000 people and providing opportunities for generations to come."
Event details and ticketing
70 Years of Elizabeth
Take a trip down memory lane and explore the past seven decades of Elizabeth. This free historical display features photographs, memorabilia and stories that capture our city's journey - from its beginnings in 1955 to the vibrant community we know today.
The Great Hall
Playford Civic Centre
10 Playford Boulevard, Elizabeth
Monday 17 - Friday 21 November 2025
9am - 5pm
Open until 9pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays
Free entry - no bookings required
Talking about my generation
Hear unique stories from three generations of locals about their life in Elizabeth, followed by an interactive tour in Great Hall of memories from our past. This free event is open to everyone as part of our 70th anniversary celebrations.
The Shedley Threatre & Great Hall
Playford Civic Centre
10 Playford Boulevard, Elizabeth
Wednesday 19 November
1pm - 3pm
Free entry - bookings required at www.theshedley.com.au
