Blue Tree Project
By Amy Papasergio
The Blue Tree Project is a community program focused on encouraging people to break down the stigma around mental health and to spread the message that “it’s ok not be ok.”
There are around 250 Blue Trees already situated around the South West of Australia.
Peter Ebert, a St Catherine’s College resident, shares his journey and efforts which led to a Blue Tree being installed at the College:
Impact
A few weeks ago, a friend of mine committed suicide. He was in the year below me at my old high school in Albany. I didn’t know him that well, it was just the fact that this had happened to someone I knew, that it had affected me quite badly. I knew I wanted to do something to spread awareness about the issue and make a difference.
Later, I contacted Kate Rowe, my residential advisor, who me the College had wanted to organise a Blue Tree for some time and that we could spread awareness through the upcoming formal hall.
Blue Tree Project
The Formal Hall dinner held on the Monday 23 September was themed around the Blue Tree Project and mental health awareness. I contacted Kendall White, the coordinator of the project, who was able to speak at the Formal Hall and share her experience. That’s what this is all about, spreading this awareness and breaking down the stigma around mental health.
St Catherine’s Blue Tree
Many students helped to paint and plant the Blue Tree at College, which is now situated in the Gardens on Winthrop Avenue. This allows the tree to be seen by more people than just St Catherine’s residents.
I hope to continue the upkeep on the tree, which is something that means a lot to me and to those at the College.
Owen Ebert, my Dad who works for Albany Monumental Masons, was willing to donate a stone plaque which is now underneath the Blue Tree. It is engraved with the following words:
"We are stronger than we believe,
braver than we think
and loved more than we know."
Residents at St Catherine’s College who are battling with mental health or know someone who is, are encouraged to reach out to their Residential Advisors or Ashleigh.
Remember, is it ok to not be ok.
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