On Wednesday June 13, just prior to the second State Of Origin match, the 50th anniversary of Slim Dusty’s iconic song A Pub with No Beer will be celebrated. The special tribute, which fittingly coincides with Slim’s own 80th anniversary, will take place in the form of a special video presentation looking back on Slim's life, together with live performances of some of Slim's classics.

Singers on the night will include: 6 time CMAA Golden Guitar winner Adam Harvey, who will perform Australia’s first ever #1 hit single, A Pub With No Beer ; Amos Morris, a 19 year old bush balladeer from Slim’s hometown of Kempsey, whom many have likened to a young Slim Dusty, will perform the classic Don Walker/Slim Dusty track, Charleville; and David and Anne Kirkpatrick will perform one of their Dad’s numerous other classics, Duncan.

The NRL have been generous enough to support such an occasion, not only by hosting the pre-game tribute, but by also supporting The Slim Dusty Foundation. For more than 60 years, Slim Dusty defined the character of Australia. Just prior to his death in September 2003, Slim's family and a group of prominent Australians were working together to set up the Slim Dusty Foundation, to recognise and commemorate Slim's unique contribution to our nation. The Slim Dusty Foundation is now developing a major national tourist attraction in Slim's birthplace of Kempsey NSW. The Centre will provide a uniquely Australian experience in an environment ranking in innovation, excellence and relevance as one of the most significant of its type in the world. It will incorporate a museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Slim, and the unique, rugged face of Australian culture. It will house the incredible collection of priceless memorabilia, collected from a lifetime on the road. The multipurpose facility will provide much needed community benefits in Slim's hometown, including employment opportunities, economic development, and once operational, the Centre will support young Australian musical talent with scholarships. It was Slim's dream to give back to his hometown.

Already the centre has received tremendous support from Federal and State Governments, and many other organisations and individuals throughout the nation, but The Slim Dusty Foundation is seeking further community support to achieve its goal and raise the substantial funds needed to plan and construct the Centre. The hope on Wednesday night is to raise both general public and corporate company awareness, as well as much-needed funds for the Slim Dusty Centre.

The donation line (phone 1800 18 SLIM / 1800 18 7546 ) will be fully operational throughout the evening or donations can also be made online via the official website www.slimdustycentre.com.au