Last month we shared the story of Macleay Island locals Gail and Len Waldorff and their mission to bring a little more awareness, compassion and conversation around mental health.
Now, their message of hope has taken root, with the tree at the Macleay Island Golf Club transformed into a bright blue symbol of remembrance, connection and the importance of checking in with one another.
Inspired by the Blue Tree Project after seeing one of the iconic blue trees while travelling, Gail and Len wanted to create something meaningful in memory of their son and to encourage more open conversations around mental health and suicide prevention.
Joined by close friends and their grandchildren, the couple watched as the tree came to life; a moment that was both personal and powerful.
“When we first started to do this, we didn’t want to get too many people involved, it was a personal thing for Lenny and I,” Gail said.
But their hope is that the blue tree will become a catalyst for something much bigger. “We want more conversations and to get mental health better on the islands.”
Gail and Len have called Macleay Island home for nine years, originally moving across for retirement. They quickly discovered a community they never wanted to leave.
“When we came here, Lenny was retired and I worked for a few more years in aged care with BlueCare,” Gail said.
“We see ourselves living here forever, we love it so much.”
The couple have embraced island life, becoming familiar faces around the community, particularly at the golf club. Both are passionate golfers, with Len having played for around 30 years and Gail taking up the sport after retirement.
These days, you’ll often find them on the course three or four times a week, with Gail sometimes playing up to six times depending on competitions. She also enjoys bike riding, occasional bowls and keeping active; so much so that she sold her car and now happily gets around without worrying about parking.
Len enjoys fishing and has also found a strong connection through his involvement with the RSL.
“The RSL has changed a lot of things for me,” he said. “It’s kept me busier, but I’m slowly getting adjusted to that.”
For the Waldorffs, it’s the people that make Macleay Island special.
“It’s a great community, we have great neighbours and great friends,” Gail said.
Family has also always been an important part of their island journey. When they first moved over, their grandchildren spent many school holidays with them, enjoying the slower pace of island life. Now teenagers, they are spending more time on the mainland, but those special memories remain; just like the connections Gail and Len continue to build within the island community.
Now proudly featured on our front cover, the blue tree stands as a symbol of those connections. More than just a splash of colour, it is a reminder that behind every person is a story, and sometimes a simple question — “Are you okay?” — can make a difference.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Support is available through services including Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, or by speaking with a trusted friend, family member or professional.
One tree. Many conversations. A community that cares.
