A dead tree at Nagle Park in Maroubra has been painted blue as part of a national mental health awareness initiative involving local community members.
Mental Health Symbol Installed in Maroubra
On 14 November 2025, community participants gathered at Nagle Park to paint a dead tree blue as part of the Blue Tree Project. The project began in 2019 and now includes more than 1,500 trees across Australia, each serving as a visible reminder to encourage mental health discussions.
The Maroubra chapter of The Man Walk proposed the idea earlier in the year to encourage connection and reduce social isolation. The group conducts weekly walks designed to offer men a supportive and open environment.
Details of the Blue Tree Project
The Blue Tree Project places painted blue trees in public spaces to help break down barriers around mental health. The newly painted tree in Nagle Park joins the national network of symbolic installations aimed at prompting conversation.
Members of The Man Walk highlighted that the tree is intended for the wider community and hoped it would prompt questions from people passing through the park. Suicide remains a leading cause of death for males aged 15 to 44 in Australia, underscoring the importance of such initiatives.
Plans are underway to install signage next to the painted tree, offering guidance on where to access support.
Support services listed include:
• Lifeline 13 11 14
• Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
• MensLine Australia 1300 789 978
The Man Walk Maroubra meets every Friday at 7:15 a.m. outside the Heffron Park Tennis Centre.
Growing Community Support
The Man Walk has expanded nationally, now running weekly in more than 80 Australian locations. Participants have collectively walked over 2.25 billion steps, reflecting the growing interest in simple, accessible community connection.
The Maroubra initiative reinforces this approach by providing a visual symbol aimed at strengthening mental health awareness within the suburb.
Local Messages of Support
Members involved in the initiative expressed that the blue tree is meant to reassure the community that seeking help is acceptable. They hope the installation encourages conversations and prompts individuals to check in on others.
What Comes Next for Maroubra
The painted tree will continue to stand in Nagle Park as a symbol of mental health awareness in Maroubra. Planned signage will guide residents towards support services and reinforce the message of connection and care.
Published 21-Nov-2025
