A bright blue tree will soon become a powerful symbol of hope and connection at Tahmoor’s DNA Dirt Jump & Skate Park.

Wollondilly Shire Council is working with local community organisations to bring the Blue Tree Project to Tahmoor, helping to raise awareness of mental health and encourage important conversations across the community.

The Blue Tree Project is a mental health initiative that transforms trees into bright blue visual reminders that it is okay not to be okay. Blue trees encourage people to check in with their friends, family members and neighbours, while helping to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.

The Tahmoor tree is currently a work in progress and will be officially launched at a community event during Mental Health Month in October.

The tree was selected because it is in a highly visible location that is regularly used by young people, families and other members of the community.

The tree has already delaminated, and painting it will not create any environmental impacts.

Its location at the DNA Dirt Jump & Skate Park will make it a strong visual reminder for community members to check in with one another, start conversations about mental health and offer support when it is needed.

To learn more about the Blue Tree Project or find other painted tree locations visit Blue Tree Project.

Anyone who is feeling overwhelmed or experiencing a crisis can contact Lifeline, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, on 13 11 14.

Council thanks the local organisations and businesses supporting the Tahmoor Blue Tree Project, including Community Links Wellbeing, Warragamba Silverdale Neighbourhood Centre, Wildflower Holistic Services, Firebird Services, Carstens Painting Services, Maverick Supports, Lifeline, Wattyl Paint Campbelltown and Mitre 10 Picton.

The project has been made possible through grant funding from Veolia.