The Blue Tree Project

Have you seen a blue tree in Warialda? Blue trees are popping up around the countryside and there is an important and poignant reason behind each one.

The blue tree is a part of an initiative - The Blue Tree Project - the vibrant coloured trees are a symbol used to raise awareness for mental health and start meaningful conversations about mental health.

The blue tree echoes the message that we all have blue days, providing those currently dealing with mental illness reassurance that they are not alone and that help is available.

Recently, Moree Plains Shire Council obtained funding from WayAhead Small Grants to bring the Blue Tree Project to Moree, encouraging community members and passers-by to have healthy discussions about mental health.

Director of Planning and Community Development, Angus Witherby explained that the blue tree will help to break down the stigma associated with mental illness.

“The lives of many in our community, like so many others, have been deeply affected by events of the recent past; bushfires, the prolonged drought and the challenges and unsettling nature of dealing with COVID-19. The Blue Tree Project is a unique initiative and could not be more welcomed in Moree.

“Mental health is a very important topic that people should feel comfortable talking to their friends, family and co-workers about. Moree’s blue tree will hopefully encourage us all to speak out when doing it tough and remind us that a conversation could provide us with relief on our blue days”, said Mr Witherby.

Moree Plains Shire Council is currently planning a community paint day, where community members will be invited to take part in painting the tree or writing messages on river stones that will be cemented around the tree.

A local contractor will begin trimming back and painting the top of Moree’s blue tree in the coming days, keep any eye out and let us know if you have spotted the tree!

Details regarding the community paint day will be announced closer to the date.

For more information about the Blue Tree Project and their story, visit their website: https://www.bluetreeproject.com.au/