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Blue tree landmark to raise awareness

Callum HunterSouth Western Times
Boyanup Progress Association treasurer Denise Pianta and member Betty Saunders are feeling anything but blue as they work away on the tree.
Camera IconBoyanup Progress Association treasurer Denise Pianta and member Betty Saunders are feeling anything but blue as they work away on the tree. Credit: Callum Hunter

South Western Highway has a new landmark to take note of between Bunbury and Boyanup ... a towering blue tree.

The tree in question stands about a kilometre south of Lillydale Road and was painted by members of the Boyanup Progress Association and other community volunteers as part of the Blue Tree Project.

“It’s to raise awareness for suicide and depression,” association treasurer Denise Pianta said.

“Many years ago my family was touched by suicide and I saw the fall out ... I’ve been on the brink myself and understand that when you’re there, there’s no sense or reason.”

Miss Pianta’s past experience reared its head recently when she lost a friend to suicide, something that only fuelled her drive to finish the tree.

Painted almost entirely by hand, the tree took several days to finish but even in the early stages, drew attention from passing motorists who regularly beeped their horns in appreciation.

“The response has been extremely positive,” fellow association member Betty Saunders said.

“This is the sort of project everybody wants to be a part of because it’s a giving thing and the more people who are aware of depression, the better we can catch it before it’s too late.”

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