Former City of Elizabeth mayor and long-serving public servant Don Paginton has been acknowledged for his contributions to the City of Playford with a play space named in his honour.

Situated within the popular Mofflin Reserve, the playground area, which was opened earlier this year, and its surrounds are now known as Paginton Park.

Arriving in Elizabeth South with his family in the years following World War II, Don served on the Salisbury District Council as the Elizabeth Ward representative from 1958.

Over four decades in local government, Don helped transform Elizabeth from town to city status and into a service hub for the north, for which it is still known as today.

His leadership also secured the city’s independence from Salisbury in 1964, earning him the title ‘Father of Elizabeth.’

Some of Elizabeth’s most iconic landmarks – like Fremont Park, the Grenville Centre and the Aquadome – all bear Don’s influence. He was the assistant designer of Fremont Park, spearheading plans for a lakeside green sanctuary that could support wildlife and recreation.

He opened a refurbished Aquadome in the 1980s, after opening his beloved Fremont Park in 1978, now the premier green space in the Elizabeth CBD.

Mayor Glenn Docherty said celebrating the achievements of people like Don is a powerful reminder that our present success is built on the foundation laid by past visionaries.

“Don’s work laid the groundwork for the progress we enjoy today and by celebrating his legacy, we inspire ourselves and others to continue his mission,” said Mayor Docherty.

“The much-loved Mofflin Reserve retains its name, but a small area, including the playground, is now known as Paginton Park.”

Don Paginton served as councillor, alderman and as mayor from 1980 to 1981.

The Mayor explained, “Don continued to serve his community, always striving for more for the city, until 1997, when the cities of Elizabeth and Munno Para amalgamated to form the City of Playford.”

Don lived in Elizabeth until his death in July 2009.

“Don’s contributions ensured that Elizabeth became more than just a place to live—it grew into a vibrant, connected city with a strong sense of identity and purpose.”

Historical signage telling Don’s story and service has been temporarily placed in Paginton Park at Mofflin Reserve, allowing more people to learn about his life’s work.

Mofflin Reserve is located at the corner of Oldham Road and Trimmer Road, Elizabeth South.