A beloved stray cat, known as “Track Cat,” has been immortalized through a community-driven effort that led to the installation of a memorial stone along a Dunedin cycle track.
On March 13, the West Harbor community was heartbroken to learn that Track Cat, a well-known figure in the area, had been tragically killed after being struck by a car on State Highway 88. The news quickly spread, and the community, deeply saddened by the loss, rallied together to create a lasting tribute to their feline friend.
Jarrod Hodson, a member of the West Harbor community board, was instrumental in launching the memorial project. A local stone carver crafted the stone, and the community also contributed by having Track Cat’s remains cremated.
“Track Cat was an icon here, recognized by everyone. It’s just so sad,” said Hodson.
According to Hodson, the driver who hit Track Cat immediately stopped and tried to find the cat’s owner but was unable to locate anyone. “Her owner was the entire Ravensbourne community,” he added.
Track Cat, who first made the cycleway her home in 2022, had taken up residence in a bush near the track. The memorial, carved from Oamaru limestone by Ravensbourne carver Megan Sinclair, was placed in concrete on Sunday in a spot that overlooks Otago Harbour.
Hodson expressed his gratitude for the community’s support, noting that someone had already placed a dandelion on the memorial stone. “It’s already making an impact, which is exactly what we wanted. We want people to remember her as the special cat she was.”
A date for an official unveiling and commemoration of Track Cat’s life will be announced soon.
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