A jacaranda tree at Caboolture Hub is drawing the community together, one coloured flower at a time, as locals contribute messages of support and hope to raise awareness of domestic and family violence. The purple-flowered display is part of a new community project helping people talk about an issue that affects nearly 40 per cent of Australians during childhood.
A Visual Message with a Deeper Meaning
The Tree of Healing, created by Act for Kids, is a community art project at Caboolture Hub inviting locals to colour a flower, add a message, and place it on a jacaranda tree. It offers a simple way to support children and families impacted by domestic violence and spark conversations about healing.
The tree’s purple flowers reflect the international colour for domestic violence awareness. Its roots honour lives lost, the trunk shows community strength, and the leaves symbolise healing.
Community Spirit at the Centre
Local support brought the tree to life, with Moreton Bay City Council providing materials and Act for Kids counsellor and artist Marta Ponti volunteering her time. The installation has become a space for reflection and sharing, especially for children affected by domestic violence.
Act for Kids shared on social media their pride in seeing the tree bloom with coloured messages, encouraging more people to visit Caboolture Hub in May, add a flower, and share photos online.
A Widespread Issue with Lasting Effects
Act for Kids says over 80 per cent of the families they support each year have experienced domestic violence. CEO Dr Katrina Lines noted that nearly four in ten Australians faced it as children, and projects like this help raise awareness and drive change.
The tree not only stands as a creative symbol, but as a way for children and adults to express feelings, show support for others, and learn about what it means to live free from violence. It’s also designed to be a safe, welcoming space where difficult conversations can begin.
How Locals Can Get Involved and Seek Help
The Tree of Healing will be at Caboolture Hub throughout May for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. Visitors can colour a flower, leave a message, and share photos online tagging @actforkids to help raise awareness.
For more information about the Safe Families program by Act for Kids, click here.
Support is available for anyone impacted by domestic or family violence:
- DVConnect Womensline (24/7): 1800 811 811
- DVConnect Mensline (24/7): 1800 600 636
- Kids Helpline (24/7): 1800 551 800
The project team hopes the growing flowers will show the community’s support for a safer future for children, turning the tree into a symbol of connection and healing.
Published 2-May-2025
