Veterans’ photography to go on show

AUSTRALIAN veteran photography exhibition Point and Shoot is headed for Torquay, providing a glimpse into the lives of veterans.

On August 13 and 14, the walls of the Torquay Bowls Club will be lined with photographs taken by those who serve the nation.

The exhibition is about integrating veteran experiences into the community and sharing some of the moments captured.

Veteran, exhibition curator and Point Assist founder Mark Direen hoped that through the exhibition, people would gain a better understanding about veterans and defence military personnel.

“It’s very difficult when you haven’t served in those places to have an understanding or a grasp of what it takes to be there.

“There’s two great things that Point and Shoot does; one is it allows the veterans to contemplate and understand the experiences they’ve had, some of those experiences can be difficult.

“It also allows the general population and the public to get that unfiltered glimpse or understanding.”

Open to everybody, the exhibition tours nationally, with the best of veteran’s images and stories on display.

Mr Direen encouraged those attending to have an open mind when looking at the pictures.

For him, the highlight is interacting with the public as they make their way through.

“With Point and Shoot, I think it’s hugely important that I share the veterans’ story,” he said.

 

“When they share the story of that moment and the public starts to understand some of the difficulties, that can be hugely rewarding.”

Torquay RSL vice-president Darcy Dunstan hopes the community will see and understand the personal stories and emotions behind the images.

“The exhibition aims to foster a sense of connection and appreciation by sharing moments that veterans found significant in the line of duty.”

Mr Dunstan said he was looking forward to seeing the community engage with the exhibition and the conversations it will start.

“This exhibition in Torquay is excellent because it allows us to unite many communities in our region and enjoy the incredible stories told through art by our modern-day soldiers from different conflicts and peacekeeping operations.”

About 60 images will be on display at the Torquay event.

The exhibition is sponsored by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and is free to attend.

Drinks will also be held from 6pm until 9pm on both nights of the Torquay exhibition for attendees to enjoy while hearing real-life stories from veterans who have deployed overseas.

For more information, head to pointandshoot.online