Our Patron
Commander 3rd Brigade, Brigadier David McCammon DSM and Bar
Homebase for the Veteran Community in Townsville
1 Staging Camp Ave, Oonoonba. Drop-in M-F 0900-1500, after hours upon booking
All closed on W/E and public holidays, unless booked.
[for GPS apps you may have better luck with 20 Darter Street, Oonoonba until actual is recognised on all platforms]
Barbie Keller
What is your role in The Oasis Townsville?
I am one of the newest directors on The Oasis Townsville board of directors. It is a new role for me and having recently separated from full time service, it is a perfect role for me to give back to the veteran community.
Tell us about yourself
I joined the Army following a career in hospitality, looking for a new career where I could continue to travel, serve my country and connect with my family's service history. Following my full-time service, I transferred to an Army Reserve.
My continued Army Reserve service keeps me actively engaged with current service personnel. I am posted to the 31st/42nd Battalion in Townsville as the Officer Commanding Kennedy Company. Coupled with my employment in the defence industry, I am connected to the Townsville and defence community. Townsville is my home base where I enjoy the weather, lifestyle and particularly diving.
For me, my family connections as veterans are at the forefront of my mind. Their experiences and transition after different wars are stark reminders of the reasons we need to support transitioning service personnel.
Why have you joined the team at The Oasis Townsville?
I was looking for a volunteer opportunity. The Oasis Townsville gives me an ideal means to fulfil my desire to give back to the community and as a veteran and one that has recently undertaken a transfer in service, The Oasis vision spoke to me. I believe in the Oasis and what it does for veterans and the community.
What are you most proud of in your life?
I am most proud of the decisions I've made to support others - decisions for my soldiers and decisions to support local kids while on deployment.
What’s the best fun you’ve had with family and/or friends?
I'll always treasure experiences with family on holidays in Victoria. I'll never get those times back. Mum would pack us all into the car, trek south over many days to spend the best times with grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Every summer in Victoria was excellent.