Vulnerable families in Forest Lake and Inala are receiving critical support through a multi-million dollar funding effort led by two major local community hubs.
Banking on the Community
Heritage Bank’s Forest Lake Branch recently marked a significant milestone in its ongoing partnership with Forest Lake One Community (FLOC). Since the branch began operations in 2005, it has handed out more than $1.5 million in grants to groups within its local boundary. This area covers suburbs including Doolandella, Durack, Richlands, and Willawong. The branch operates as a joint venture, and Branch Manager Sanjh Prasad noted that the location was specifically created to return profits to the people who live there.
Every two months, the branch and FLOC select local non-profits to receive financial aid. In early October, more than $5,000 was shared among three key groups. One of these recipients was the Brisbane South Toy Library in Richlands. Operating on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, the library functions much like a traditional book library but for toys. It allows children aged six months to 12 years to borrow from a collection of hundreds of items. The service aims to reduce plastic waste and lower expenses for parents, while also creating a friendly space for families to gather.
Comfort for those in Need
Another portion of the recent grant went to Pillowcases for Oncology. This volunteer group sews and donates pillows to children who are undergoing or recovering from cancer treatments. The goal is to provide physical comfort to young patients while they are in the hospital. Dan Baldwin from FLOC mentioned that this charity was personally significant to him, and he felt proud to back an initiative that helps so many families during difficult times.
The third recipient was the National Seniors Australia Forest Lake Branch. This group supports residents over the age of 50 by offering access to financial advice and opportunities for social connection. The funding helps them continue providing these essential services to their members.
A Long History of Giving
In the neighbouring suburb of Inala, the Blue Fin Fishing Club has also made substantial contributions. Over the last 13 years, the club has donated $2.85 million to the area. General Manager Peter Purins stated that the club has always operated as a not-for-profit organisation since it began in 1956. He explained that all money earned by the venue is either used to upgrade facilities for members or donated directly to the community.
The club raises a large portion of these funds through its Tuesday night meal service. Five dollars from every main meal sold on those nights is set aside for local causes. Mr Purins noted that this initiative generates a considerable amount of money. Current beneficiaries of this weekly fundraising effort include the Brisbane South First Aid Volunteers, Wandarrah Preschool & Community Centre, the Lions Club of Inala, and Paws for Hope & Understanding.
Feeding the future
Beyond cash donations, the fishing club runs specific programs to help children. It currently funds breakfast clubs at nine local schools, with plans to expand to a tenth school soon. This ensures students and staff have a healthy start to the day. The club also supports the Salvation Army by donating around 60 hams each Christmas to ensure struggling families can enjoy a festive meal. Mr Purins remarked that it is up to the charitable organisations to use the resources where they are needed most, which makes a real difference in people’s lives.
Looking ahead, the Blue Fin Fishing Club is preparing for its 70th anniversary in January 2026. The club plans to host a week of promotions and a major dinner to celebrate the occasion. The event will also honour long-standing members, some of whom have belonged to the club for up to 60 years.
Published Date 26-November-2025
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