“This plaque honours whom?” you ask. It’s the Dawn Persson Plaque a tribute to a remarkable woman. Dawn dedicated ten years to the Avondale Community Board. She held numerous other community roles. She passed away in October 1999 just two months after this plaque was dedicated. The Dawn Persson Plaque stands near the Ash-Rata bridge over the Whau River. It’s at the end of Ash Street.
The boardwalk itself is named after Dawn Persson. However only this plaque reveals her name and story. This is a small shame. The Whau River flows nearby. Ducks pigeons and even a hawk inhabit this area. Sadly pollution from an old rubbish tip mars the beauty. Rusty oily water stains the area near the plaque.
A council sign lies ruined in the mud. Vandalism and graffiti have destroyed it. A larger interpretive sign was also lost to vandals. The area once had a main interpretive sign. Now it’s just a blank space. The area’s history is slowly being lost. Dawn’s legacy is marked by this small plaque.
Sadly even the plaque faces the risk of damage. The story of Dawn Persson’s contributions to the Avondale community risks being forgotten. This small plaque is a vital reminder of her service. Let us cherish this memory and strive to protect it. The Dawn Persson Plaque is a silent testament to a life well-lived. It stands as a symbol of community spirit. Let us ensure her dedication is not forgotten. The Dawn Persson Plaque stands for her contributions. Let’s remember Dawn and all she did for this community.