A flock of birds will fly free next month, when North Sydney Council runs its popular and powerful Lost Bird Found project.
For eight years community members having been making the beautiful birds. A tag is attached to the birds with information on the project and how to access mental health information and support.
The birds are set free and hidden in parks and public spaces in the North Sydney area (or as far as their makers take them). If a bird is found, the finder gets to keep it! Finders can then share their precious birds on social media for others to enjoy, and to spark conversations and boost awareness about mental health.
The handcrafted birds may be even more special this year, as both those who make them and find them will have a deeper understanding of the impacts of mental health, following our current experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Birds are a symbol of freedom, hope and wisdom.
North Sydney Mayor, Jilly Gibson said the importance of community, human interactions, and social connections had been highlighted over the course of the pandemic.
“This is one of my favourite Council projects and the joy it creates is threefold. The happiness starts with the individual who makes the bird and flutters through to the person who is lucky enough to find one.
“When a bird is found and posted on social media, the whole community can see it and share in its delight.
“Of course, the biggest win is the conversations we are having in the community because of these birds, especially about how important it is to take care of our own mental health.”
Lost Bird Found is the perfect craft project for all ages. Council is encouraging everyone to get out their knitting needles, paint brushes and carving tools to join in and make some birds.
