The Governor and Mrs Dawson climbed aboard the MV James Stirling Sealink Ferry on 26th September for the first plaque unveiling, before heading to the Ritz-Carlton at Elizabeth Quay for a second unveiling and morning tea.
The two new plaques are the latest additions to the Walkway project which aims to encourage people to enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the city, focusing attention on areas of culture, history and interest.
In April of 2018, former Governor, the Hon Kerry Sanderson AC, unveiled the very first plaque of the Commonwealth Walkways Western Australia (CWWA) Perth Commonwealth Walkway Project on the pavement outside Government House Perth. Since then, additional plaques have been activated across Parliament House, Kings Park, The Old Observatory, Matagarup Bridge and the Sealink Ferry MV Quokka One.
The plaques carry the #Noongar words ‘Ngalang Bidi’, meaning ‘our path’, with respected Noongar elder Dr Noel Nannup working closely with the Royal Commonwealth Society Western Australia to ensure the walkway provides an important connection to WA’s aboriginal culture and heritage.
A special Platinum Jubilee Plaque – that was gifted earlier this year by the Late Queen Elizabeth II – was also showcased at today’s unveiling. This plaque will eventually mark the end of the Commonwealth Walkway Trail when it is completed in a few years.
The Governor and Mrs Dawson were also presented with miniature replica plaques in honour of the unveilings. Government House and the Governor hosted His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley. more on this historic occasion can be found here.
The Trust is indebted to Barry House AM, David Forster and the entire WA Commonwealth Walkway committee for their continued commitment to completing the Perth Walkway.