BROADFORD Golf course supports the Blue Tree Project, a mental health charity that began in 2019 after the tragic loss of Jayden Whyte, a much-loved son, brother, and friend to suicide in 2018.
The project began as a grassroots initiative in regional Western Australia and has since grown into a widely recognised and impactful global charity— there are currently 1,492 registered blue trees across the world, each a striking symbol of hope.
Broadford Golf Club announced to its members in June that they are planning to paint one of the courses more weathered trees blue, and they proposed their members vote for its location and the sixth hole was preferred for its prominent position at the entry of the course.
The project began a month later and upon reaching not even a third of the way the club reached out on Facebook asking for help, and a local business quickly responded.
Tree Tactics arborist and keen golfer, Max Lacorcia said he plays on the course and the project resonated with him.
“Yeah…it resonated with me, I saw one once on the way home from Kyneton and I always wondered why? When I looked into it, I found out,” he said.
“We spray painted it free of charge and it took around four hours using the EWP [Elevated Work Platform]. It was one very thick [spray] coat.”
The paint was donated by Craigieburn Wattle, like all items related to the installation of the Blue Tree was provided free of charge.
“Our club is more than a place to play golf,” a golf club spokesperson said.
“It is a community hub where people come to support their mental health, build friendships, and take a break from the pressures of daily life.”
Blue Trees are powerful symbols of mental health awareness as they symbolise silent yet unwavering reminders that mental health challenges do not discriminate and there is hope.
