There are now more than 100,000 Stay ChatTY stickers in circulation in Tasmania

The SPEAK UP! The Stay ChatTY movement has reached an “incredible milestone”, with more than 100,000 of their iconic stickers now in circulation in Tasmania.

The simple yet powerful message behind the Stay ChatTY sticker has sparked conversations and encouraged people to reach out to loved ones in schools, workplaces, clubs, homes and community groups.

Founder Mitch McPherson initially created the sticker in 2013 after his younger brother Ty committed suicide.

“For me, it was a way to honor Ty and try to make a difference for others struggling with mental health issues,” McPherson said.

In the first edition, 1,000 Stay ChatTY stickers were made.

“I was convinced a lot of them would end up in my closet and collect dust, but I believed in the message and wanted to get as many out as possible,” McPherson said.

To his surprise, all 1,000 stickers were distributed within ten days, many of which went to people he had never met.

It is estimated that one in six Tasmanian vehicles now have a Stay ChatTY sticker, which serves as a daily reminder to check in not only with themselves, but with someone they care about.

Despite its widespread distribution, there are still some “misconceptions” about the sticker’s design, according to McPherson.

“Many people are surprised to hear … that the outline of the logo is not underwear, but shorts,” he said.

“My younger brother Ty wore shorts everywhere he went, even in places that others might not consider entirely appropriate.”

“The outline of the logo was a nod to his cheerful character and the way he brought a smile to the faces of others.”