A vibrant yarn bombing project in Horsham is sparking conversations about mental health while bringing people together through creativity. The Uniting Wimmera project has seen community members crochet and knit hundreds of colourful squares, which have been sewn together and displayed on two trees at Darlot House. Mental health support worker Tarni Eldridge said the project was specifically designed to create meaningful conversations while supporting the wellbeing of those involved. "This initiative was about how we create meaningful conversations in the community by also supporting the wellbeing of the participants creating the project," she said. "It's about building connections and creating conversations." The project started around mid-year and has attracted contributions from across the region, including Donald and Nhill, as well as people from Horsham. Ms Eldridge said the initiative had given people the opportunity to connect through group creativity and support, while creating something visible in the community. "With something so bright and striking, you witness it, and you get to have a bit more of a conversation," she said. The project has also given people who couldn't crochet a way to participate by choosing colours, designing squares and selecting patterns. Ms Eldridge said there was something meaningful about the imperfections of the handmade squares. "There's something really beautiful about all of the squares being uneven and not perfect and being a real representation of us," she said. Uniting Homelessness Service team leader Belinda Gilpin said the project had been especially valuable in reducing isolation and encouraging people to feel more connected. "Some people in the community have felt really lonely, so being able to contribute to something meaningful while also coming together and celebrating individuality has been really valuable," she said. The project has also included some contributions from people experiencing homelessness, highlighting its inclusive nature. Ms Gilpin said every contribution matters. "Not one square is better than the other. They are all equally important," she said. The project has also emphasised the wellbeing benefits of crocheting, with Ms Eldridge noting that its repetitive movements can help decrease stress and promote relaxation. The initiative has encouraged community members to continue checking in on one another and keeping conversations about mental health going. The crochet squares inside the Uniting building on Baillie Street will remain on display until the end of October, while the outdoor display at Darlot Street will stay in place for as long as possible regardless of rain, hail or sunshine. Ms Eldridge said she was prepared to mend the display as needed to keep the conversation going. The project has been supported by a selection of contributors, with Thelma and Dawn from Kurrajong Lodge Horsham recognised for contributing the most granny squares. For those involved, the project has been about far more than decorating trees; it has been about connection, creativity, and reminding the community that every contribution matters.
Yarn project weaves threads of connection
