The annual dinner got its start on the centenary of Chifley’s birth, named after the well-known phrase he used to outline his vision for the future.

Now held on what would be a day after his 132^nd birthday, the event continues to celebrate his birthday, the legacy that he left behind and the Labor Party in general.

Current deputy opposition leader Tanya Plibersek will deliver the Light on the Hill address and Bathurst Labor Branch president Sue West is pleased to have Ms Plibersek, who is also the also shadow minister for education, shadow minister for women and Member for Sydney. 

“I’m delighted to have Tanya to be our guest at the Light on the Hill dinner,” she said.

“It’s an important occasion and I’m sure she’ll do an excellent job.

“We asked her to outline the dream they have for Light on the Hill and we’ll find out [what she will speak about] when she gets up on stage.”

The Light on the Hill dinner has attracted many high profile Labor politicians including former prime ministers Gough Whitlam, Paul Keating, Bob Hawke and Kevin Rudd. 

Current opposition leader Bill Shorten has also previously appeared at the dinner. 

Ms West heaped praise on Ben Chifley, who served as prime minister from 1945 to 1949.

“He was absolutely essential to the growth of Australia during the Second World War and the recovery afterwards,” she said.

“He was a prime minister and the treasurer and was essential with refugees coming over here from war and the Snowy Mountains scheme.

“He said, ‘No, no’ to the Brits. ‘We’re not going to fight in Europe’s wars, we’ve got our own in our backyard against the Japanese’.”

Ms West said the Light on the Hill dinner is a highlight event for the Labor Party in NSW and even Australia.

Tickets have already sold out for the event, which will be held at Bathurst Panthers.

Those attending the dinner will arrive at 6.30pm for a 7pm start.