Recognising the start of Mental Health Week, residents came together to create a community blue tree, each leaving their handprints on the tree to mark their contribution.
The Blue Tree Project is a nation-wide charity that began in WA, where trees are painted blue as a sign of hope and support for those struggling with mental health, and as a conversation starter for passers-by.
The event is part of a wider investment at Bushmead to support community wellbeing, encouraging connection to both nature and neighbours through a number of local initiatives.
Cedar Woods supports many resident-led initiatives including the Saturday Kadina parkrun, Pilates in the Park and the Bushmead Conservation Cobbers.
Cedar Woods WA State Manager Ben Rosser, said the Blue Tree Project is sparking important conversations around Australia and we are pleased to be extending their message here in Bushmead.
“This event was important, but our aim is that the impact and message of Bushmead’s Blue Tree continues for generations to come,” Mr Rosser Said
“Bushmead is a unique estate with so much to offer in support of positive wellbeing. We encourage residents to make the most of their neighbourhood connections and being surrounded by 185ha of natural bushland,”
City of Swan Mayor David Lucas also made his mark on the tree in support of The Blue Tree Project’s message.
“I was honoured to be able to contribute to this wonderful initiative by adding my handprint to the Bushmead Blue Tree,” he said,
“It is my hope that this tree will serve as a permanent catalyst to spark conversations in the local community around mental wellness and suicide prevention. Now more than ever, it is important that we consistently show people kindness, support and understanding with regard to their mental health.”
The event is the first in a number of initiatives taking place at Bushmead throughout Mental Health Month, encouraging residents to press pause, get out in nature and connect with their community.
Find out more about what is happening in Bushmead in October here.