Media Release - Blue Tree Project

Posted on May 25, 2021

Thanks to the initiative of a Northern Midlands Councillor and the financial backing of local business and community members, a dead gum tree bordering the Midland Highway between Perth and Longford now provides a vivid reminder of the importance of mental health.

The tree has been painted blue to help encourage people to speak up when battling mental health issues.

It is the third Blue Tree to be registered in Tasmania as part of a national program to stimulate mental health awareness.

Last year Cr Andrew Calvert came up with the idea of joining the Blue Tree program by painting a prominent tree bordering the newly constructed Perth by-pass. Initially, the idea failed to gain the support of Council because of the cost involved. That’s when a number of local businesses stepped in to offer their services free of charge and a community member offered to fund the project.

On Saturday 22 May, the project came to fruition with services and time donated by Pfeiffer Cranes, Mitre 10, and several residents and community members.

“In the recovery phase from the COVID-19 pandemic we need to focus on action-based resilience initiatives that strengthen local capacity and capability and encourage community engagement. Never has the need to spread the message that ‘it’s OK to not be OK’, and to break down the stigma associated with mental health, been of greater importance” Mayor Mary Knowles said.

“This project is 100% sponsored by the community, with cash and in-kind donations being generously provided by Pfeiffer Cranes, Mitre 10, Meander Valley Painting and a number of local residents” Mayor Knowles concluded.

Visit www.bluetreeproject.com.au for further information or to find the best contact number to speak to someone directly.

For further information, please contact Mayor Mary Knowles OAM on 0408 766 625.