Community
24 October, 2026
Blue tree already having an impact
Tahmoor’s new blue true is already making a difference according to Wollondilly Shire councillor, Jacqueline Jenson.
Tahmoor’s new blue true is already making a difference according to Wollondilly Shire councillor, Jacqueline Jenson.
Cr Jenson – who was the driving force behind the initiative locally – has already been told by someone who lost a relative through suicide that the Blue Tree gave them comfort.
The blue true is part of an international project designed to raise awareness of mental health.
Whenever someone sees a blue tree they are encouraged to check in on the people around them and – just as importantly – to check in on themselves.
Tahmoor’s blue tree is located next to the skate park and dirt jumps in Thirlmere Way and was made possible through funding from the Veolia Mulwaree Trust.
It was officially ‘launched’ on Friday afternoon by Wollondilly mayor Matt Gould as part of Mental Health Month.
Cr Gould said the tree was a reminder that “it’s OK not to be OK”.
He said openly talking about suicide could save a life.
Cr Gould said people were feeling more stressed and more alone than ever before and “a little connection goes a long way”.
Veolia’s Head of Government Relations, Megan Surawski, described the blue tree as a “fantastic” project.
“If we can turn around just one person, the blue tree has done its job,” she said.
Cr Jenson recognised those people with lived experience of suicide.
“Everyone’s lived experience is unique.
“Everyone’s lived experience is valuable.
“Everyone’s lived experience can make a difference,” Cr Jenson said.
“And that is why the Blue Tree Project is so important.
“The blue tree in front of me today is more than a symbol.
“It is a reminder to speak up when we are struggling and that reaching out and checking in on one another can make a difference.”
Cr Jenson said the blue tree would serve as a lasting reminder “that through compassion, connection and looking out for one another we can help create a community where everyone feels supported, valued and less alone”.
Aunty Karen Adams – who gave the Welcome to Country – said suicide was something that touched everyone.
“It means a lot that we can talk about this now,” she said.
Aunty Karen encouraged people to remember that “everybody’s important”.
“Let’s come together and make this worthwhile for our community,” she said.
Council is already planning to expand the Blue Tree Project locally with a suitable tree already identified in Warragamba.
There will possibly also be one in Appin.
The Blue Tree Project began in 2019, inspired by the tragic suicide of Jayden Whyte in 2018.
Jayden and a friend painted a dead tree blue on his family farm in Western Australia four years before his death.
What started as a simple prank evolved into a meaningful symbol of hope and connection, transforming into a global movement dedicated to mental health awareness and support. For more information visit www.bluetreeproject.com.au
The website features a map of the 1696 blue trees that have now been registered as part of the project around the world.
--------------
Subscribe to The Southern Wire Newsletter for free at the link below.
https://subscribe-forms.beehiiv.com/1986abc6-c89e-4781-9db2-cf35c9dd71e4
If you value independent local journalism across the Highlands, Tablelands and Wollondilly, please click the link below to support us to ensure we remain paywall free.
Read More: Tahmoor, Wollondilly