A blue tree that stood as a symbol of mental health awareness along the Midland Highway has been cut down after being left unsafe by a fire.
The Northern Midlands Council confirmed the decision on Wednesday, saying the Tasmania Fire Service had advised the damaged tree between Perth and Longford posed a safety risk.
“Today we have to say goodbye to the iconic blue tree in Perth,” the council said.
“After a fire had damaged the tree, the fire service advised that it was unsafe and the council had to comply with the difficult decision to cut it down.”
The dead gum tree was painted bright blue in May 2021 as part of the national Blue Tree Project, which aims to spark conversations about mental health and reduce stigma around mental illness.
It was the third tree in Tasmania to join the initiative.
The project came about after local councillor Andrew Calvert first proposed the idea.
Despite early setbacks, including cost estimates exceeding $10,500, the project went ahead after local businesses and community members donated their services.
At the time, Calvert said he knew the tree should be painted blue when he first saw it following completion of the bypass.
“It’s there to increase awareness and if it saves even just one life it’s done its job, as far as I am concerned,” he said.
The Blue Tree Project began in Western Australia in 2019 and has since grown to include more than 1,500 blue trees across Australia and overseas.
The council thanked the community for sharing memories and photos of the Perth tree over the years.
“The blue tree had remained in place as a reminder of its powerful message: it’s okay to not be okay,” the council said.
“Its impact will live on.”
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.
