Maitland’s blue tree to spark important conversations around mental health

A new splash of blue now appears along the New England Highway at East Maitland, as Maitland City Council partners with the Blue Tree Project to raise awareness of mental health and remind the community they are not alone.

The Blue Tree Project began as a grassroots initiative, transforming dead trees into vivid blue symbols that spark conversations about mental health and serve as a visible reminder that it’s okay not to be okay.

Mayor Philip Penfold says the project reflects Council’s commitment to wellbeing and a connected city with thriving communities.

“Mental health is a shared concern in our community. According to the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures, one in five Australians aged 16 - 85 experienced a mental disorder in the past 12 months, highlighting the importance of support networks and open conversation.

“In regional areas like ours, support isn’t always easy to access, but we want people to know they’re not alone. The blue tree is a visible reminder that help is available and taking that first step to ask is the start of real change.”

Business Development Manager for Programmed Property Services, Owen Boughton says, “Programmed Commercial Painting Newcastle is proud to support the Blue Tree Project, a meaningful initiative addressing an issue that impacts us all.

“We hope this simple gesture encourages understanding and open conversations around mental health in our community."

That message of connection will continue later this month, when Council hosts a free community event at Maitland Town Hall on Wednesday 19 November in partnership with Joblink Plus, to mark International Men’s Day.

For details about the Blue Tree Project, head to bluetreeproject.com.au