A new photographic exhibition showcasing the service and sacrifice of veterans serving in Afghanistan has launched today at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park.
Point & Shoot 2026; Australian Veteran Photography Exhibition features photographs taken by Australian veterans while serving in Afghanistan accompanied by a personal story, providing a unique and personal perspective on military service. Together, the images and narratives offer a rare insight into the experiences of Australians who have served their country.
The exhibition is part of the NSW Government's acknowledgement of the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Afghanistan, honouring the service and sacrifice of those who served in the broader Middle East Area of Operations. A special Star Ceremony will also take place on Sunday in the Hall of Memory at the Anzac Memorial, commencing at 10:30am.
Point & Shoot is the brainchild of Point Assist founder Mark Direen, a former Infantry and Special Forces soldier with over 25 years military service including 6 overseas deployments.
Mark's own experiences as a soldier were the impetus for this project. Operating in remote, high threat environments is both physically and mentally demanding. It was behind the lens of a camera, capturing both the ordinary and extraordinary experiences as a combat soldier that he found stillness and meaning. Looking back at a plethora of images post service, Mark then began to wonder, maybe others do this too and so the concept began.
Additionally, veterans living in New South Wales who have served from 1990 to the present day are also being invited to share their story. Veterans can help ensure the experiences, service and sacrifice of contemporary veterans are recognised and preserved for future generations.
More information is available here: www.anzacmemorial.nsw.gov.au/event/point-shoot-2026
Minister for Veterans David Harris said:
"As we mark the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Afghanistan, the Point & Shoot exhibition provides a powerful and deeply personal insight into the experiences of those who served.
"Through these photographs and stories, veterans share moments of service, sacrifice, camaraderie and humanity, helping all Australians better understand the realities of military service and ensuring these experiences are remembered for generations to come.
"It is crucial that we preserve the stories of our veterans and I encourage contemporary veterans across the state to share their own stories so that future generations can better understand the contributions and sacrifices of those who have served our nation."
Point Assist founder Mark Direen said:
"Point & Shoot aims to integrate the experiences of military service into the community. Most Australians will thankfully never know what it is like to fight a war, lose friends in combat, or make decisions where people's lives are at stake."
"Those of us who have lived these experiences have a responsibility, where we can, to share our stories honestly so something can be learned from them. Every veteran has a story worth telling. Point & Shoot encourages these stories to be shared."
