International Overdose Awareness Day
31 August
SENBAZURU is the art of folding 1,000 paper cranes. It is said that if you fold 1,000 paper cranes and make a wish, it will come true.
The ATDC is calling on members of the Tasmanian community to help fold Japanese cranes to raise awareness and remember Tasmanians lost to overdose.
Drug overdose continues to impact Tasmanians of all backgrounds – with more than one person lost every week to overdose across Tasmania.\
Be a part of ending overdose. How many origami cranes can you fold?

Contribute
1. FOLD A CRANE Time to remember, time to act
- Nominate a Crane Champion in your organisation to coordinate crane folding sessions and to attend International Overdose Awareness Day events
- Hold a crane folding session with friends, family, or workmates. How many can you fold?
- Be part of an artwork of origami cranes, by coming to an event in your region and placing your cranes on the artwork.
- Talk about overdose. Anyone can be affected, talking about overdose can save a life.
- Upload photos of cranes to social media #EndOverdose #OverdoseAware #IOAD2021 @OverdoseDay @atdctas
2. ATTEND AN IOAD COMMUNITY EVENT And be a part of ending overdose in Tasmania
- Bring folded cranes to your local community event and contribute to the region’s artwork. Events will be held in Devonport, Launceston and nipaluna/Hobart and will include crane folding, placing cranes as part of an artwork, talks and a minute’s silence to remember those we have lost to overdose.
- Haven’t folded a crane? Can’t fold a crane? We have you covered. Pre-folded cranes will be available on the day so everyone can be part of creating the art installation.
3. RAISE AWARENESS Share with your networks
FOR MORE INFORMATION phone Cathy on 6231 5002.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make an origami crane? See here for instructions. You can also find many videos online.
What can I use to make an origami crane? Origami paper is the easiest to fold, however, all you need is a flat, foldable square of any size. You can try things such as copy paper, newspaper, wrapping paper, fabric, thin plastic, cellophane or even fabric.
Where can I get origami paper?
Pick up FREE origami paper packs at the following locations:
- ATDC, 175 Collins Street, Hobart
- City Mission, 48 Frederick Street, Launceston
- Anglicare Tasmania, 31 King St, Devonport
- YFCC, 129 Wilson Street, Burnie
You can buy paper from many retailers around Tasmania or online, look for stationery, art supplies or even discount stores.
What do I do with my crane? Bring folded cranes to your local community event on International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31 and contribute to the region’s artwork. Events will be held in Devonport, Launceston and nipaluna/Hobart and will include crane folding, placing cranes as part of an artwork, talks and a minute’s silence to remember those we have lost to overdose.
You can also display your crane(s) in your home or workplace to share the word about International Overdose Awareness Day. Have you displayed your cranes in a creative way? Share your ideas with us! Upload photos of cranes to social media #EndOverdose #OverdoseAware #IOAD2021 @OverdoseDay @atdctas
Where can I see the artworks? Attend an IOAD community event and be a part of ending overdose in Tasmania.
Bring folded cranes to your local community event and contribute to the region’s artwork. Events will be held in Devonport, Launceston and nipaluna/Hobart and will include crane folding, placing cranes as part of an artwork, talks and a minute’s silence to remember those we have lost to overdose.
Haven’t folded a crane? Can’t fold a crane? We have you covered. Pre-folded cranes will be available on the day so everyone can be part of creating the art installation.
Follow us on Facebook or subscribe to our eNews to get the latest on community events in your area.
Tributes
How do I share a tribute? This year the ATDC isn’t requesting tributes, but you can submit a tribute to someone through the global International Overdose Awareness Campaign here.
What happened to the 2020 tributes? 2020 tributes were collated in a memorial to all those affected by overdose, and shared along with the online display of cranes on International Overdose Awareness Day Monday 31 August 2020. You can view them on our website here.
Over ten thousand origami cranes were folded by Tasmanians in 2019 and 2020 to raise awareness of the risks of overdose, commemorating International Overdose Awareness Day.
View the mosaicAre you looking for help and support services for alcohol, tobacco or other drugs in Tasmania?
Questions?
For more information on International Overdose Awareness Day or any of our other projects and activities, please get in touch!
Contact the ATDC