Blue Tree spread mental health message at Ascot
A dead tree received a vibrant makeover at Ascot Racecourse today in honour of mental health awareness.
The painting formed part of Racing WA’s Community Fund partnership with the Blue Tree Project, with the collaboration on a mission to spread the message “it’s OK to not be OK” across the State’s 49 racecourses.
Racing and Wagering Western Australia CEO Ian Edwards said the Ascot tree marked a significant step for the partnership.
“The Blue Tree Project has been instrumental in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health, and having a presence at Perth’s premier racecourse will help us reach a large portion of the racing community in the metropolitan area,” Ian said.
“The message we are spreading here today is particularly important for the future stars of our sport, many of whom have joined us here today as part of their apprentice jockey training.”
“I extend my thanks to Perth Racing for embracing this initiative, which highlights our joint commitment to mental health awareness in the racing community.”
Racing WA Racing Training Manager Sharyn Lancaster said the partnership with the Blue Tree Project added to the Apprentice Jockey Program’s focus on mental and physical wellbeing.
“The mental resilience of the Apprentice Jockeys is crucial for their success in racing,” Sharyn said.
“Our goal is for the Apprentice Jockeys to feel supported, both on and off the track, and to encourage them to prioritise their mental health.
“Now they will see this blue tree every time they come to Apprentice School or have a riding commitment, acting as a reminder to check in on their own wellbeing, as well as their peers.”
As part of the ongoing partnership with Racing WA, the Blue Tree Project will also provide mental health workshops, practical resources and much-needed support at race clubs in WA.
“The partnership enables us to reach even more communities in WA,” Blue Tree Project CEO Kendall Whyte said.
“We recognise racing is an important part of WA’s social fabric and we hope the blue trees we are painting together will prompt more conversations around mental health and encourage individuals to seek support if needed.”
Image: Apprentice Jockeys Ava Catarino and Rosie Mahony