A unique collaboration will showcase art from defence force veterans with an aim to inspire everyone to check your mates during the upcoming Remembrance Day and Christmas holidays.

The Oasis Townsville has teamed up with the owners and tenants of Flinders Lane to host a free pop-up art exhibition this Sunday (Oct 31) featuring artworks from Ex-ADF members.

The Oasis Chair, Lieutenant General John Caligari said the event was part of ongoing efforts to support a broad range of events designed to help connect the veteran community.

“Providing opportunities for veterans to connect with others from the community is a huge part of our focus,” Caligari said.

“We know it is important to include a wide range of activities into our programs that appeal to different interests, from sports, education, family and culture.

“This exhibition pulls together the incredible artwork from members of our veteran community and is aimed at inspiring others to have a go at something they may never have thought of.

“It is also an opportunity to encourage everyone to check on their mates during the upcoming Remembrance Day and holiday season.

“We know that this period can be particularly difficult for those struggling with isolation and its impact on health physically and mentally, the best thing people can do to help is to reach out and be there to talk.

“The event space at Flinders Lane off Flinders Street in the City opposite City Lane has kindly been donated for use for the exhibition by owner Martin Locke, and we are very grateful to be given this opportunity.

“We hope everyone, particularly younger veterans of the defence community, will come down and check it out. There is a range of art from modern, contemporary works to landscape watercolours and work that captures civilian and defence service lives.

“The space is home to the hugely popular Annee's Caphê Sua Da Vietnamese Coffee so we are encouraging people to grab an iced coffee and check out the exhibition. The popular Cotters Markets are also on so we are hoping for a big turnout.”

The exhibition will also feature kids colouring-in, a message board for people to leave messages of encouragement and support to those on deployment.

The pop up runs from 6.30am to midday this Sunday at Flinders Lane (if you are coming by bus just behind the CBD Bus stop in Ogden Street).

ENDS… Media contact: Michael Baker; 0417 900 545