In 2011, we’re celebrating Tupperware’s 50^th anniversary in Australia – and what a long way we’ve come from humble beginnings!

Plastic was still a new material during World War II. As a chemist, Earl Silas Tupper developed it into products that gave the allies an edge, such as gas masks and insulation for radar cables. When the war ended, the innovative Tupper saw its potential beyond military use and, in 1946, he introduced Tupperware to America.

While it took a brilliant chemist to invent Tupperware, it was Florida single mother Brownie Wise that made it a phenomenon. When Earl Tupper went to investigate why a particular store had better sales than the rest, he met Brownie, who explained her secrets: demonstrating the product, explaining the features and benefits, having fun with it. The idea for the Tupperware party was born.

Suddenly, Tupperware wasn’t just another product on the shelf; it was a social event; it offered convenience in the kitchen and an opportunity for the 1950s housewife to run her own business.

Australia hosted its first-ever Tupperware party in Melbourne in May 1961. Craig and Mary Paton were living in California when Craig met Tupperware International President Hamer Wilson at a convention in the late ’50s. Rather than simply show the Patons his product, Hamer, in true Tupperware style, invited them to attend a party. Craig and Mary were blown away by what they saw and agreed to help launch Tupperware in Australia when they returned home. They were exciting years.

Twelve women attended the first ever Australian Tupperware party, held at Mary’s mother’s home in Camberwell. Among the number was Mary’s sister Ruth, who went on to become the first Australian Demonstrator.

“We all thought the products were just so wonderful,” Mary recalled in a 2009 interview. “Mum used to have food, like flour, in packets, which would always go off. Suddenly, you had these beautiful products that were marvellous for keeping everything so fresh and well-sealed. Everyone loved it. There had been nothing like it in Australia. There may have been some plastic products around but this was far superior.”

Says Regional Manager Chris Brooker: “It is a product that stands the test of time. One of the things about our product is that it actually does what we say it will do.”

Despite the changing face of Tupperware – new products and new technologies – the fundamental tenets of guaranteed quality, the fun of the party, and excellent training for its people have helped keep Tupperware relevant to Australians and New Zealanders over the years.

“Those people that started 50 years ago, that were the Tupperware pioneers, would be proud to know that the party is still very strong and the company is still very strong and still working with people to enhance their lives through our products and our opportunity,” says Regional Sales Manager Debra Callow. “Fifty years in Australia is certainly a milestone with any company.”

To commemorate the extraordinary anniversary, the Company has special events and promotions scheduled to run throughout 2011. “I can’t tell you everything because a lot of it is secret,” teases Debra.

One of the things Debra can reveal is that, as a tribute to those early Tupperware years, the Company will be re-releasing a product from the past – the original Tupperware Wonderlier Bowl – in a special-edition gold colour. Currently a host incentive, they may be made available through the year as either limited releases or further host incentives. “The Wonderlier Bowl was invented by Earl Tupper and was one of the first products manufactured, so it’s very symbolic to our market,” says Debra.

There will also be plenty of initiatives to help the Saleforce generate excitement at parties. “This year we have the opportunity for our Hosts to be part of our Gold Host Club. It’s like a loyalty club where people will be updated with special offers and exciting incentives throughout the year.” Between now and Week 13, Gold Hosts will have the opportunity to earn themselves tickets in the exclusive Gold Host Draw to be in the running to win an amazing $10,000 in cash. It’s just another reason to get the party started!