"Life After The Oasis"

Life After The Oasis: Where Townsville Veterans Can Find Support Now

The closure of The Oasis Townsville has left a significant gap in our local veteran community. For many, it wasn't just a building; it was a point of connection, a soft landing, and a place where you didn't have to explain yourself.

When a resource like that disappears, it’s easy to feel adrift. But while the building may be gone, the support network in Townsville is still here—it just looks a little different now.

If you’re a veteran navigating this transition, here is a guide on where to find support and how to maintain your momentum.

1. THE IMMEDIATE GAP: WHERE TO GO NOW

While we wait for new hubs to establish, several organisations remain active in the region:

• Open Arms (1800 011 046): Still the primary 24/7 support for veterans and families.

• Local RSL Sub-Branches: Thuringowa, Townsville, and North Queensland branches are still the backbone of grassroots support.

• Townsville Veterans Hub: Continuing to provide advocacy and connection.

• Mates4Mates: Providing physical and psychological rehabilitation services.

2. THE NEED FOR "VETERAN-AWARE" CARE

One of the biggest hurdles in seeking support is the "clinical gap." Many veterans hesitate to see a civilian counsellor because they don't want to spend the first three sessions explaining what a 'lid' is or why hyper-vigilance isn't just 'anxiety.'

At Finding The Warrior Within, I provide veteran-aware counselling and mentoring. I understand the transition from a high-stakes, structured environment to civilian life because I speak the language. You don't have to translate your experience for me.

3. PRACTICAL TOOLS OVER ENDLESS TALKING

Transition and post-service life often bring up issues with regulation—feeling 'red-lined,' reactive, or completely shut down.

My approach isn't about sitting on a couch and talking about your childhood for six months. It’s about:

• Nervous System Regulation: Practical breathwork and grounding tools to manage the 'fight or flight' response.

• Mentoring-Style Accountability: Setting clear goals for your health, relationships, and civilian career.

• Fast Access: I typically offer appointments within 7 days, because when you're ready to do the work, you shouldn't have to wait months on a clinical list.

4. HOW TO ACCESS SUPPORT

You have options in Townsville:

• Private-Pay: Fast, confidential, and no GP referral required.

• NDIS: If you have an NDIS plan (Self or Plan Managed), I provide capacity-building support under Improved Daily Living and Relationships.

• DVA Support: While I do not bill DVA directly, I work alongside DVA-funded psychologists to provide the practical, 'boots-on-the-ground' mentoring and regulation skills that clinical sessions sometimes miss.

MOVING FORWARD

The Oasis was a great asset, but the 'Warrior Within' doesn't depend on a physical location. It’s about the tools you carry and the community you keep.

If you’re feeling the impact of recent changes in the Townsville veteran space, or if you’re just ready to get your regulation back on track, let’s have a chat.

Brian Whitchurch

Counsellor & Mentor | Finding The Warrior Within

📞 0428 928 159

🌐 www.ftww.net.au

📍 Townsville & Telehealth Australia-wide