Blue tree blooms to spark mental health conversations

A SPLASH of bright blue has appeared along the Hervey Bay Esplanade — and it’s doing more than turning heads.

The newly painted Blue Tree stands as a powerful reminder to start conversations about mental health and check in with those around us.

The initiative was led by the Rotary Club of Hervey Bay Sunrise, inspired by the global Blue Tree Project, which began in Western Australia.

The movement started with a simple, yet profound act — painting a dead tree blue — and has since grown into a worldwide symbol of hope, connection, and mental health awareness.

The Rotary Club connected with Fraser Coast Mates, whose mission is to encourage open conversations and community support around mental wellbeing, to bring the project to life locally.

Together, they approached Fraser Coast Regional Council, who enthusiastically supported the initiative by providing equipment, a truck, and team members to assist with the painting.

Heather Sugget from Rotary had a conversation with Mayor George Seymour that supported the idea.

Local stores Crowies Paints donated the blue paint and Bunnings supplied the painting equipment that staff from the Fraser Coast Regional Council were able to help with the difficult heights.

“The Blue Tree is a simple but powerful symbol,” says Heather.

President of Fraser Coast Mates, Darren Bosley, says the impact will be much more than the visual sight. “It’s a reminder to have that conversation, to ask a mate if they’re okay, and to know it’s okay to not be okay.”

Located on the Esplanade near the Hervey Bay Sailing Club, the tree has quickly become a talking point for locals and visitors alike.

The Rotary Club encourages everyone to visit, take a photo with the tree, and share it using #bluetreeproject to spread awareness even further.

The project reflects the Fraser Coast community’s united effort to promote mental health awareness and support.

In the words of the Blue Tree Project itself, “By spreading the paint, you help spread the message that it’s okay to have a blue day.”

For more information, visit https://bluetreeproject.com.au/