A remote Aussie pub 160 kilometres west of Charters Towers in North Queensland has grabbed attention from people all over Australia, thanks to one social media post.
Oasis Exchange Hotel publican Priscilla Meli did not expect the huge response to her Facebook post announcing their ‘pay it forward’ donation scheme to help truckies doing it tough.
After thousands of responses to the post, the pub began to receive calls from all over Australia from ordinary Australians just wanting to help.
Oasis Exchange is a popular stop for truckies, and outside of tourist season they are the roadhouse’s main source of income.
Understanding the importance of their work, the pub offers truckies free showers and free tea and coffee, along with ten per cent off their meals, to keep them going.
Ms Meli had noticed a lot of drivers doing it tough, and after a conversation with one driver was inspired to do some research and set up the program.
Anyone who can afford to is welcome to donate a meal or a drink, which is then put on a board for someone in need to use.
“We made this board so that any driver a bit pinched for cash could get a beer and a good feed and when they are in a better spot, they can pay it forward and throw something on the board for someone else,” she said.
Ms Meli found it heartwarming that Australians from all walks of life – from ex truckies to pensioners – were willing to call up and make a donation, as a way to thank truckies for keeping Australia going.
Oasis Exchange includes a restaurant, café, general store, pub, motel, hotel rooms and caravan park.
The hotel will be featured on the Today show on Wednesday 28th February at 7:30am.
