The Singleton Golf Course has expressed disappointment after vandals targeted its Blue Tree.
The solar lights, which had only recently been installed at the base of the tree, were stolen last weekend. They had been donated by a club member.
The club took to social media to express its frustration at what it called a senseless act.
“The Blue Tree stands as a symbol of mental health awareness, support and the importance of starting conversations that can make a difference in people’s lives,” the post reads.
“We will not allow this behaviour to take away from what the Blue Tree represents, so we are taking measures to protect these assets, including the installation of security cameras.”
The lights have since been replaced through another donation from a club member. The club has called on the community to come together.
“We ask everyone to continue supporting the Blue Tree and the important message behind it. Let’s stand together as a community and ensure its meaning remains at the heart of what we do,” the club said.
The Blue Tree Project raises awareness for mental health, after a 29-year-old Western Australian man Jayden Whyte took his own life in 2018. Jayden and his friend Tjarda Tiedeken painted a dead tree bright blue in 2014 as a practical joke, and has now become a symbol for awareness. Jayden’s sister, Kendall Whyte, then founded the Blue Tree Project in 2019 to turn the trees into a nationwide movement.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
