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Darren Chester backs Blue Tree Project to raise mental health awareness and honor those lost to suicide

Blue Tree Project, with over 1100 trees painted blue across Australia, raises mental health awareness and commemorates those lost to suicide. MP Darren Chester supports this community initiative for a healthier future.

By news@gippsland - 11th June 2024 - Back to News

Blue-painted trees are growing in popularity across Australia, with more than 1100 trees painted as part of the Blue Tree Project to promote mental health awareness and commemorate people lost to suicide. The Blue Tree Project aims to spark difficult conversations and encourage people to speak up when experiencing mental health concerns. Blue trees, which can be found on every continent except Antarctica, serve as symbols of hope and conversation catalysts.

Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester joined East Gippsland residents in painting trees at Lakes Entrance as part of a local Blue Tree Project over the King's Birthday long weekend

Supporting mental health

This King's Birthday long weekend, Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester joined East Gippsland residents in painting trees at Lakes Entrance as part of a local Blue Tree Project. Mr Chester said he was proud to support the community-led initiative.

"The Blue Tree Project is all about helping to build a mentally healthy future by raising awareness about the help which is available and supporting people who may be experiencing difficulties. Suicide takes more than 3000 lives each year in Australia and shatters the lives of too many local families. One of the challenges is removing the stigma about mental health, and painting blue trees in high-profile locations is helping to get the conversation started across our nation," Mr Chester said.

Chester thanks sponsors

Mr Chester extended thanks to project sponsors Nathan from Roots 2 Leaves and Peter from Crowies Paints and congratulated the team at Forget Me Not Studios, which spearheaded the initiative. If you or anyone you know needs help:

Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

Lifeline on 13 11 14

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support line 13YARN on 13 92 76

Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800

Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636

Headspace on 1800 650 890

MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978

Pictures from Darren Chester MP website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com