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Inala Leads Brisbane in Feral Cat Numbers

Inala has recorded more feral cats than any other Brisbane suburb, with more than three times as many trapped there compared with its nearest neighbour.

Cat Complaints on the Rise

Brisbane City Council data shows 804 feral cats were trapped across the city in the past financial year, with Inala alone accounting for 135. The figure placed the suburb far ahead of Richlands, which recorded 46.

Complaints to council included 579 about feral cats and 91 about wandering domestic pets. Council officers also issued 58 infringements to owners whose cats were found roaming.

A Community Concern

Inala’s ranking highlights a broader challenge for families and pet owners in the southwest. The suburb also featured in council’s list of top areas for wandering cats, alongside Acacia Ridge and Bracken Ridge. Officials said most owners were responsible, but unrestrained or feral cats could damage local wildlife and disrupt households.

They stressed that cats must be microchipped before 12 weeks of age or when rehomed, but the RSPCA reported that about 70 per cent of animals arriving at its Brisbane facility were not chipped.

Local Laws and Leash Walking

Brisbane City Council confirmed that residents, including those in Inala, are allowed to walk their cats on a leash, a rule that has long been in place. Cats must still be contained on their owner’s property to stop roaming and protect neighbours and wildlife.

*Photo Credit: Photo by Ahmet Yüksek/Pexels*

The clarification followed a petition calling for cats to have the same walking rights as dogs. That proposal also sought designated areas for leashed cats, plus microchipping and education programs to support responsible ownership.

Impact on Wildlife

The Invasive Species Council has identified feral cats as the single biggest threat to Australia’s mammals, responsible for more extinctions than any other invasive animal. For Inala and surrounding suburbs such as Darra, Runcorn, and Willawong, the concern extends beyond neighbourhood complaints to protecting native species.

Council representatives said cats were part of many families and that responsible ownership was vital to keep pets safe while protecting Brisbane’s outdoor lifestyle.

Published 02-September-2025

IGA Local Grocer Forest Lake Celebrated with Community Awards

Photo Credit: MargieNightingaleMP/Facebook

IGA Local Grocer Forest Lake has been recognised by the community it serves, winning multiple honours at the 2025 Inala Electorate Small Business Awards.

A Community’s Choice

Forest Lake residents have placed their trust and votes behind their local grocer, with IGA Local Grocer Forest Lake taking home three awards at this year’s Inala Electorate Small Business Awards.

The family-run store was named Small Business of the Year, while also receiving first place in the Community Support category and second place in Retail and Sales. The awards were determined by community nominations followed by an online voting process.

Photo Credit: MargieNightingaleMP/Facebook

Owners Harshi and Vijay expressed their gratitude to customers, saying they are thankful for the ongoing support that has helped the store become a cornerstone of Forest Lake.

More Than Just a Supermarket

Located at 120 Woogaroo Street, Forest Lake, the IGA Local Grocer serves as more than a place to shop for groceries. The store offers a wide range of services, including takeaway meals, a gold lotto counter, dry cleaning, ATM facilities, and newspapers. Customers also have access to fresh flowers, ready meals, and weekly specials through the IGA catalogue.

With extended trading hours from early morning through the evening, the store has built its reputation on being a convenient and welcoming stop for locals. Many residents have noted the friendly service and family atmosphere as reasons they continue to return.

Community Roots in Forest Lake

Forest Lake, a suburb located just over 20 kilometres southwest of Brisbane’s CBD, is known for its strong community identity. The suburb was one of Brisbane’s first master-planned communities and is home to more than 22,000 residents.

At the heart of this setting, businesses such as IGA Local Grocer play a role not only in providing essential goods but also in shaping the social fabric of the area.

Continuing the Story

Winning three awards does not mark the end of the journey for the Forest Lake grocer. For its owners, the recognition is motivation to keep refining what the store offers and to keep investing in the relationships that sustain it. It is the kind of small business story that reminds locals why supporting independent shops matters: the transactions may be simple, but the impact on community life is lasting.

Published 19-Aug-2025

Parkinson Couple Lost Just Days Apart Following Johnson Road Collision

Photo Credit: Facebook / Durack-Inala Bowls Club Inc.

A heartbreaking tragedy has left the Parkinson community mourning the loss of a devoted couple whose nearly six-decade marriage came to a devastating end following a multi-vehicle collision on Johnson Road in July.

Margret and James ‘Jimmy’ Fagan, who had been married for almost 60 years, both lost their lives following the crash that occurred on 16 July when their white Kia Seltos collided with a white Renault van and an MG ZST travelling in the opposite direction.

The couple were both transported to Princess Alexandra Hospital in serious condition. Jimmy passed away on the night of the accident, whilst Margret fought bravely for 11 days before succumbing to her injuries on 1 August, surrounded by her family.

Their daughter Julie shared that her parents had been teenage sweethearts who married in Paisley, Scotland, in 1968 when Margret was 18 and Jimmy was 17. The young family made the courageous decision to migrate to Australia in 1972, bringing their two daughters to start a new life.

Julie described her parents as hardworking individuals who provided a stable foundation for their family. She recalled Jimmy as a respected figure who was looked up to by his siblings as the eldest of five, whilst Margret was the heart of the household, later taking on part-time work where she formed lasting friendships.

A particularly treasured family memory was a trip to Fiji organised seven years ago to celebrate the couple’s 50th wedding anniversary, where they renewed their vows in a special ceremony.

The couple leaves behind four daughters, three granddaughters, and two great-granddaughters, all of whom are struggling with the enormous loss.

Beyond their family, the Fagans were active members of the local sporting community, participating in the Lions Football Club, Algester Sports Club, and the Durack-Inala Bowls Club. Their involvement in these organisations demonstrated their commitment to community engagement and social connection.

Durack-Inala Bowls Club president Phillip noted how deeply the loss had affected club members. The club observed a period of mourning with arm bands worn by members and flags flying at half-mast the weekend following the accident, with similar honours planned for the couple’s funeral service.

The funeral service was held yesterday at Centenary Memorial Gardens, where hundreds of family members and friends gathered to pay their final respects to the beloved couple.

This tragedy contributes to concerning road safety statistics across Queensland. In 2024, 302 people were killed on Queensland roads, making it the worst year on Queensland roads since 2009, according to the Queensland Government. The source data from the original incident indicates that as of early August 2025, Queensland had recorded 178 crash fatalities, representing an increase from the previous year and above the five-year average.

Police investigations into the multi-vehicle collision continue, with two other people having sustained injuries in the crash. Authorities are appealing for anyone with CCTV footage or dashcam vision of the incident to contact Policelink to assist with their inquiries.

The loss of Margret and Jimmy Fagan serves as a sobering reminder of the precious nature of life and the devastating impact road crashes have on families and communities. Their legacy of love, hard work, and community spirit will be remembered by all who knew them.

Published 16-August-2025

Two Puppies Stolen from Calamvale Property in Brazen Early Morning Theft

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

A Calamvale family faced every pet owner’s nightmare this week when two women broke into their Perkins Street home and attempted to steal four Staffordshire Bull Terrier cross puppies.

The incident occurred around 6am on Monday morning when the pair entered the residence and tried to take all four puppies, which were just four weeks old. In a desperate struggle to protect the vulnerable animals, a resident of the home managed to wrestle two of the puppies back from the thieves.

However, the women successfully fled the scene with the remaining two puppies, driving away in a vehicle before police could arrive.

The theft has prompted an urgent appeal from Queensland Police, who are now investigating the case and calling for the safe return of the stolen animals. Police have confirmed they are seeking information about the whereabouts of the two four-week-old Staffy cross puppies.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the puppies’ location to come forward, emphasising that the young animals can be safely returned to any police station or handed in to a veterinary clinic without questions asked.

The incident highlights ongoing concerns about pet theft in Brisbane’s southern suburbs. Four-week-old puppies are particularly vulnerable as they are still dependent on their mother and require specialised care for proper development.

Community members with any information about this theft are encouraged to contact Policelink online or by calling 131 444. Police stress that even small details could prove crucial in reuniting these puppies with their family.

The Calamvale community has rallied around the affected family, with local residents expressing shock that such a brazen theft could occur in broad daylight in their neighbourhood.

Published 12-August-2025

Breadtop Brings Fresh Flavours to Inala Plaza with New Bakery

Inala Plaza shoppers now have a new place to pick up fresh buns and pastries, with Breadtop opening its latest bakery inside the busy shopping centre.

A Fresh Option for the Community

The bakery began trading on Friday, 8 August 2025, beside the Aldi entry, adding to Inala Plaza’s mix of food outlets. Operated by franchisee Melody Lin, the store was chosen for its high foot traffic and lack of another Breadtop nearby. Known for its self-serve concept, Breadtop offers sweet and savoury items including pork floss buns, pineapple buns and custard marble buns.

Management says the Inala Plaza store matches the variety and freshness of other locations. The company expects its blend of Asian and Western-style baking to appeal to the community’s diverse tastes.

Grand Opening Promotion

To celebrate the launch, Breadtop Inala Plaza offered a one-day promotion on opening day, a free freshly baked egg tart with any purchase of $20 or more. The offer applied only to in-store customers and was available throughout the day.

The bakery’s regular hours are Monday to Wednesday and Friday to Saturday from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm, Thursday from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, and Sunday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

A Growing Australian Success Story

Breadtop began in Box Hill, Victoria, in 2002 and has since expanded to more than 70 locations across Australia, as well as a store in Auckland, New Zealand. The company has invested in large-scale production facilities in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, each certified under the HACCP food safety program.

Over the years, Breadtop has introduced seasonal products, collaborated with popular characters, and developed an e-commerce platform and loyalty program. The Inala Plaza store is the latest addition to its Queensland network, which began with its first Brisbane location in 2009.

Local Impact

Centre management at Inala Plaza has welcomed the bakery, describing it as a good fit with the existing mix of international food outlets. With its variety of fresh baked goods, the store aims to attract both regular shoppers and those visiting the centre for the first time.

By bringing a well-known national brand to the suburb, Breadtop hopes to provide more choice for locals while contributing to the shopping centre’s role as a community hub.

Published 12-August-2025

Forest Lake Local Honoured with 2025 Algester Queensland Day Award

Photo Credit: Charlotte Fung/Instagram

Forest Lake’s Charlotte Fung has been recognised with a 2025 Algester Queensland Day Award for her extensive charitable and community work in Queensland.

Award Recognition

Charlotte Fung, a music teacher at Calamvale Special School and long-time community volunteer, received the 2025 Algester Queensland Day Award in acknowledgment of her years of service supporting children who are sick, disadvantaged, or living with disabilities. The award presentation took place earlier this year, recognising her sustained fundraising efforts and local engagement.

Background in Charity Work

Fung has raised more than $10,000 for Variety – the Children’s Charity of Queensland and continues to plan additional events to increase this figure. She has used her position as a Miss World Australia beauty with a purpose state finalist to advocate for children’s needs and direct funds to support relevant programs.

Community Initiatives and Events

Her fundraising activities have included raffles, high teas, charity yoga sessions, and sausage sizzles, along with direct involvement in Variety’s camps and programs. These initiatives have helped children build friendships, develop skills, and connect with mentors. Fung is also preparing to host a Variety Show at Calamvale Community College on 1 March 2025 at 6:30 p.m., with a goal of raising over $20,000.

*Photo Credit: Charlotte Fung/Instagram*

Broader Community Engagement

Beyond her charity work, Fung has served as a Youth Member in the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament, contributing to youth engagement and representation. Her volunteer work has been supported by local residents and community groups, helping expand awareness of the challenges faced by children in need.

Future Plans

Fung intends to continue her fundraising and advocacy, focusing on increasing support for programs that assist children facing disadvantage. She will also compete later this year in the Miss World Australia national event, where her community work will form a key part of her campaign.

Published 11-Aug-2025

Forest Lake’s Braydon Giles Recognised as Leading Australian Educator

Photo Credit: Braydon Giles/LinkedIn

Braydon Giles, head of middle school at St John’s Anglican College in Forest Lake, has been recognised among Australia’s Most Influential Educators for 2025.

Recognition for Forest Lake School Leader

Giles has been named on The Educator’s Most Influential Educators 2025 list, which highlights 50 professionals whose work has significantly shaped the Australian education sector. Nominations were received from 10–25 March 2025, with the list published on 25 July 2025.

The annual list, supported by the Australian Boarding Schools Association, identifies educators who lead change through innovation, evidence-based practice and collaboration across institutions.

Career and Leadership Roles

Giles began his career in the Queensland Department of Education in 2012 before joining St John’s Anglican College, where he has held leadership roles in the middle years. He is currently Head of Middle School, overseeing programs for students in Years 7–9.

Since 2023, he has also served as vice president of Adolescent Success, an association focused on the education and development of young adolescents. Previously, he was treasurer of the Joint Council of Queensland Teachers’ Associations, representing teacher associations across the state.

Achievements and Recognition

In 2024, Giles received the Australian Council for Educational Leaders’ New Voice in School Leadership Scholarship, recognising his emerging influence. His work has been published in education journals and magazines, and he has presented at national and international conferences.

His leadership at St John’s emphasises holistic growth for students, combining innovative approaches with strategies aimed at supporting academic, personal and social development.

Broader Context in Australian Education

The 2025 Most Influential Educators list comes amid workforce shortages and growing calls for reform in the education sector. Data from the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership shows that over a third of teachers are unsure about staying in the profession until retirement, with workload and wellbeing among the leading concerns.

Educators recognised on this year’s list have been noted for introducing new models of learning, integrating technology, advocating for student agency and promoting equity of access across diverse school communities.

Community Response

St John’s Anglican College publicly congratulated Giles on the recognition, with numerous community members and colleagues sharing messages of support. Parents, staff and students described the acknowledgement as well deserved, citing his positive impact on student learning and wellbeing.

Published 11-Aug-2025

Pallara State School Records Biggest Enrolment Growth in Brisbane

While more than half of Brisbane’s state primary schools have seen enrolment declines in the past three years, Pallara State School is bucking the trend, and in a big way.

Read: Future High School Planning Progresses in Pallara

The south-western suburb school has grown by 48 per cent since 2021, reaching 1,283 students in 2024. Forecasts show enrolments could hit 1,600 by 2027, making it one of the fastest-growing public primary schools in the state.

The growth reflects the dramatic population surge in Pallara–Willawong, where resident numbers have jumped by more than 50 per cent since the 2021 Census to around 15,710 people as of May this year, according to AreaSearch data.

The school’s rapid expansion stands in contrast to more than 100 Brisbane state primaries that have shrunk since 2021. Among the biggest declines were Hendra, Jindalee, Bulimba and Grand Avenue in Forest Lake, each losing between 16 and 50 per cent of students.

Pallara State School — Photo credit: FS Riccobon/Google Maps

In areas like Ironside and Aspley, strict enrolment catchment rules have capped intake. Elsewhere, families are increasingly turning to home-schooling or enrolling their children in private schools as early as Year 5.

The rising student numbers in Pallara have triggered planning for a new state high school to relieve future pressure on the local system. In a statement last month, local MP Leanne Enoch said the Department of Education was now conducting a land scan across the broader area to identify potential sites.

“We know from the growth at Pallara State School that a future high school will be required in the area to relieve the expected enrolment growth,” she said.

Education researchers say parents are becoming more deliberate about schooling choices, with many prioritising schools that match their children’s learning styles, academic goals, or social needs. That’s played out in suburbs like Kenmore, Moorooka and Hamilton, which have also recorded sharp enrolment increases.

Meanwhile, enrolment dips in traditionally popular suburbs like Graceville, Ascot and Bulimba suggest that some families are shifting students to private schools before high school entry.

Read: Community Petitions Push for Infrastructure Upgrades in Pallara

While overall demand for state schooling remains high — with nearly two-thirds of Queensland students enrolled in the public system — the enrolment reshuffle highlights the challenges of catering to a growing and increasingly mobile population.

Published 7-August-2025

Future High School Planning Progresses in Pallara

Photo Credit: Pexels

A future high school is being planned in Pallara as authorities assess potential sites to address growing enrolment pressures in the area.

Background and Community Context

Pallara has experienced significant population growth in recent years, particularly around Pallara State School. In response to rising enrolments, the school has introduced measures such as a split campus model, which will repurpose the former site at 282 Ritchie Road for Prep and Year 1 students. This change follows a $10.5 million expansion completed earlier, featuring a large modular building with 66 units and 17 classrooms.

To accommodate future growth, a dedicated working group formed several years ago has been coordinating with the Department of Education and local school leaders to advocate for long-term infrastructure solutions, including the need for a new secondary school.

Site Identification and Enrolment Forecasts

The Department of Education has confirmed it is currently conducting a land scan in Pallara and surrounding areas to identify suitable locations for a future high school. This evaluation is part of the department’s new schools pipeline, with planning considerations targeting a school opening between 2030 and 2035. However, with continued growth in the region and enrolments at Pallara State School expected to reach 1,600 by 2027, community members are calling for an accelerated timeline.

The evaluation process is being carried out under commercial confidentiality. Community leaders are encouraging residents to show support for the project and request the release of the findings to ensure transparency.

Short-Term Measures Already in Place

To manage immediate enrolment pressures, the split campus proposal is being implemented. This initiative is part of a broader infrastructure strategy by Education Queensland to respond to an anticipated 11.6% increase in the state’s school-age population between 2021 and 2031. It also aligns with state efforts to expand or construct new schools across high-growth suburbs in South East Queensland.

Community Engagement and Support

Community participation has been central to recent efforts. Supporters of the future high school plan have also been circulating a petition, both online and through printed forms, to emphasise the need for urgent action.

A local working group has played a key role in bringing together stakeholders, including school principals and departmental staff, to push for a formal response to increasing demand.

Pallara future high school — *Photo Credit: LeeanneEnochMP*

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Next Steps

While a high school for Pallara is included in long-term infrastructure plans, local advocacy continues to focus on ensuring that land is identified and secured without delay. Updates are expected as the land scan progresses and more information becomes available from the department.

Published 4-Aug-2025

Multicultural Mass in Inala to Honour Migrants as ‘Missionaries of Hope’

Photo Credit: Multicultural Mass 2025

With an expected crowd of 1,200 people, ten choirs, and more than 20 cultural groups participating, the Queen of Vietnamese Martyrs Catholic Church in Inala is preparing to host the Archdiocese of Brisbane’s vibrant and large-scale annual Multicultural Mass.

Honouring a Special Theme

The special event will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, 24 August. This year’s gathering is held in recognition of the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, embracing a theme chosen by Pope Francis: “Migrants, Missionaries of Hope.”

An archdiocesan project officer, Liliana Ortiz, explained that the theme is a fitting reflection for the Jubilee Year. She said it acknowledges the resilience and hope with which migrants and refugees face challenges, and it recognises the joy, vitality, and faith they contribute to local parishes.

A Gathering of Nations

Brisbane apostolic administrator Archbishop Mark Coleridge will preside over the Mass, joined by priests who minister to diverse cultural communities across the archdiocese. Organisers from the Archdiocesan Ministries Inclusion team anticipate participation from 20 to 25 cultural communities and have confirmed that ten different choirs will contribute to the liturgy.

The Vietnamese Catholic Community will host the event at their Inala church for the second time. The Mass is described as a powerful expression of the Church’s unity and a reminder of the rich cultural fabric of the archdiocese, celebrating the unique gifts each community brings to its life and mission.

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A Celebration for the Community

Following the Mass, a joyful celebration will continue on the church grounds, featuring cultural performances that highlight the traditions of the communities present. Attendees will also share in a diverse array of food from around the world and enjoy a range of fun activities planned for children.

All are warmly encouraged to attend and wear their traditional or cultural dress as a visible and beautiful sign of a united and diverse community. Registrations for the event are now available online.

Published Date 31-July-2025