Blue Trees highlight Mental Health

From Broken Hill to Inverell, Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) staff across the state have been whittling, welding and painting blue trees in the name of mental health awareness.

Minister for Counter Terrorism and Corrections Anthony Roberts said 50 blue trees have been unveiled at CSNSW workplaces as part of the Blue Tree Project.

CSNSW met its target to create 50 trees by World Suicide Prevention Day.

“The idea of the Blue Tree Project is not only a symbol of hope but one of resilience and strength – that no matter how tough things get, there is always someone you can turn to and that should never be forgotten,” he said.

“We hope these blue trees will promote conversations among staff, and encourage those who might be suffering and speak up.”

Staff and inmates have been involved in creating their distinctive blue trees – from murals and collages to welded sculptures and painted tree trunks.

Acting Commissioner Kevin Corcoran PSM said Hunter Correctional Centrebased manager Vicki Rivett lost her son Luke Watson last year and inspired CSNSW to take part in the project.

“It’s no secret our staff work in a difficult and challenging environment and now, more so than ever, we need to make the effort to look out for one another,” he said.

“Vicki isn’t alone in her loss – mental health can be a silent killer. It is an issue that affects the lives of millions, can be greatly misunderstood and, in some cases, can end so tragically.”

CSNSW wellbeing and resilience project officer Jane Cox said the Blue Tree Project is one of several wellbeing initiatives staff can take part in. Another is Stand TALR, a specialised course to help reduce the stigma and increase understanding of mental illness.

“If people get to a point where they are impacted by mental health it doesn’t just affect their work life, it affects their home life and their relationships,” she said.

“CSNSW is focused on assisting staff, not only through specialised programs, but with peer support officers and dedicated staff welfare officers.”

The Blue Tree Project was launched in WA in 2018 by a woman in memory of her brother, who had taken his life. The project involves creating or painting a dead tree blue either in memory of a person who has taken their life, or to spark difficult conversations and raise general awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.

The theme for 2021 is ‘there’s no place like home’ and applicants are encouraged to capture the essence of their hometown before Friday, 24 September 2021.

Chair of RDA Central West, Ruth Fagan, said the competition is a wonderful platform to highlight everything that is special about our region.

“There truly is no place like home and the ‘Central West is Best’ photography competition is a great way to capture what you love most about your community,” said Mrs Fagan.

“The Central West is a great place to live and we want to see entries that highlight why there is no place like it – this could be a place, person or an event – and entries also don’t need to be current.”

“We’ve all spent a lot of time at home due to COVID-19 but I think it has led to a deeper appreciation for the Central West so I’m looking forward to seeing this year’s entries and celebrating our region!”

Entry into the 2021 Central West is Best Photography Competition is free and open to all ages and photographic abilities. Photos entered into the competition are not required to be taken during the competition timeframe.

Entries close 5pm AEST Friday, 24 September 2021. For the full terms and conditions, and more information including how to enter, visit the RDA Central West website at www. rdacentralwest.org.au

• There are two categories: Junior (under 18yo) and Open (18yo and over) • There will be a First Prize (up to the value of $300 + Fujifilm

Instax Mini 11 camera) and Runner-

Up (up to the value of $200) in each category. • Two ‘special mention’ entries will receive a FujiFilm Instax Mini 11

Photo Kit. These will be drawn across all entries, Junior and Open.

Questions can be directed to the RDA Central West office on (02) 6369 1600 or by emailing admin@ rdacentralwest.org.au

Afterpay and Click & Web: infinitimbsb.com.au Infiniti succs & giftwares group: Collect available! www.facebook.com/groups/3839712309470996 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/infinitimbsb

We hope everyone is keeping well during these difficult times.

50 years experienceCall Les Harry • No Job too small • Repair & MaintenanceLes harry 0429 624 150 • Regrout & Sealing • Pensioner & Retirees Discounts Over 50 years experience • No jobs over $5000 can be taken

Please note we are permitted to operate during lockdown as golf is “exercise” that we can access. In fact, it's great exercise and wonderful for mental health and well being! Call 02 6351 3164 to book. Covid Rules must be followed.