A tree at Mary Carroll Reserve will be transformed with a coat of blue paint this week, to give it a new look and purpose.

The Friends of Mary Carroll Wetland, students from Armadale Senior High School Support Unit and the City of Gosnells will work together to promote positive mental health messages, as part of the Blue Tree Project.

With more than 500 blue trees across Australia and internationally, the Blue Tree Project is aimed at sparking difficult conversations, encouraging people battling mental health issues to speak up, and breaking down stigma attached to mental health.

City of Gosnells Mayor David Goode said while many Blue Project trees were situated in high traffic areas, the tree at Mary Carroll Reserve would be deliberately different.

“The Blue Tree at Mary Carroll Reserve will have a beautiful view of the wetland and offer a spot for quiet contemplation and reflection,” he said.

“The City has installed a log seat beside the blue tree, which I hope will become a place for community members to pause for a moment, and consider their own mental health and that of their friends and family.

“We want to share the message that ‘It’s okay to not be okay’ and encourage community members experiencing mental health issues to seek support.”

A plaque will also be installed on the seat with a 24-hour phone contact for Beyond Blue for community members experiencing mental health issues to reach out for support. The number is 1300 224 636.

Published on

28th Oct 2020