At Higgins Coatings, we’re proud to support initiatives that extend beyond the brush, projects that spark conversations and create meaningful change in our communities. Our national partnership with the Blue Tree Project is a prime example of this.
On Thursday, 8 May 2025, our Canberra team joined forces with Transport Canberra and City Services to give a tree in Acton a ‘blue lease on life’ and help raise awareness for mental health. This event was also made possible thanks to the combined support of Wattyl (paint donation) and Asset Hire (boom lift access).
Our role included providing paint, buckets, brushes, and painting hard to reach parts of the tree safely and efficiently. It was a true team effort, led by our ACT Branch Manager Chris Stih, alongside Ivan Avvali (Operations Manager), Troy Hansen (Project Manager) and Muhammed Cemal (Senior Foreman).
Photos courtesy of Transport Canberra and City Services.
Why this matters to us
For Chris, Higgins’ support of Blue Tree Project is extremely close to his heart.
“Mental health awareness is incredibly important to me. Over the past year, my family has been deeply affected through experiences of schoolyard bullying and a serious workplace incident. If a single blue tree can encourage someone to open-up or spark a conversation, then it’s already made a difference.”
Chris adds, “Being part of this project wasn’t a matter of if, it was always a matter of when. I’m incredibly proud of our team, and thrilled to support more events like this in partnership with the ACT Government.”
Photos courtesy of Transport Canberra and City Services.
Strength in community
The Canberra branch is like a big family but it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day chaos of work. Being part of this project was a great reminder to slow down, check in with each other, and remember how much a simple conversation can mean.
Thank you to everyone who helped bring this event to life, we look forward to painting more trees and sparking more important conversations around mental health.
To find out more about the Blue Tree project, visit their website www.bluetreeproject.com.au