A tree in Canberra’s south was painted blue today to remind the community “it’s OK to not be OK”.
The tree is on Hindmarsh Drive next to the off-ramp from the Tuggeranong Parkway in Lyons.
The ACT Government has partnered with the Blue Tree Project to reduce the stigma around mental health, and spark important conversations about mental health and suicide prevention by giving dead trees ‘a blue lease on life’.
The Blue Trees Project began in 2019 to create safe spaces and places to engage in mental health discussions. It was founded by Kendall Whyte, WA Young Australian of the Year 2022, after her brother Jayden took his own life.
“It’s wonderful to have the government supporting Blue Tree Project’s cause and mission,” Ms Whyte said.
“We hope the prominent location of the tree helps start many conversations around individuals’ wellbeing.
“It’s an exciting step for Blue Tree Project as we push into the east coast after its inception in WA. There are just under 1,000 trees painted as part of the project, and many of them are now popping up on the east coast. It’s terrific to see our growing symbols spreading the importance of mental health.”
Emma Davidson, ACT Minister for Mental Health, said the Blue Tree Project’s ethos aligned with the ACT Government’s vision for a kind, connected, and informed community working together to promote and protect the mental health and wellbeing of all.
“The past three years of the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted, and continues to impact, the mental health of the Canberra community,” Ms Davidson said.
“By painting a tree blue today, we’re giving Canberrans a visual reminder to have those difficult conversations about mental health, to reach out when they’re experiencing mental health concerns, and to access the supports [that] are available.”
The trees that chosen for the Blue Tree Project are dead, and do not contain significant habitat elements. The paint is non-toxic, and an ecological survey of the trees is undertaken to ensure wildlife and any nesting birds are not disturbed.
There is another Blue Tree at the University of Canberra, giving the ACT two reminders of the importance of speaking out about mental health and suicide prevention.
“By spreading the blue paint today, we’re spreading the message that help and support [are] available when Canberrans are experiencing a mental health challenge,” Ms Davidson said.
“Accessing early intervention mental health support can help people before they reach a crisis point and allows them to continue to stay engaged and connected with their community.”
Dr Elizabeth Moore, ACT Coordinator-General Mental Health, helped paint the tree.
