Forest Lake Archives - Forest Lake News

New Site Needed for Forest Lake Men’s Shed After Lease Non-Renewal

The Forest Lake Men’s Shed, a cherished community hub for local men, is urgently seeking a new home as their current lease, which expires on 31 January 2026, will not be renewed.

The group, currently based at a site leased from Arethusa College at 25 High St, has received confirmation from the college’s Head Office that the lease will not be extended beyond the set date.

For the past 18 months, they have been in discussions with BCCl about relocating to the Ellen Grove Park precinct.

Forest Lake Men's Shed needs new home — *Photo Credit: Forest Lake Men’s Shed*

The Importance of the Men’s Shed in Forest Lake

The Forest Lake Men’s Shed provides a welcoming and secure environment for men to engage in meaningful activities or simply socialise. Many members find solace here, addressing issues such as loneliness, depression, and isolation, particularly after personal hardships or retirement.

The organisation’s dedication to promoting “mate-ship” has fostered a strong sense of belonging among its diverse members. Through a variety of activities, from community projects to personal hobbies, the Shed enhances health, productivity, and mental well-being.

Proposed Site in Ellen Grove

The group has identified land within the Ellen Grove Park precinct, behind the carpark between Waterford Road and Coriander Street, as a suitable new site.

While the city officials have designated this land for sport and recreation, the Men’s Shed argues that its activities align with recreational purposes. Additionally, the proposal includes plans to introduce a Women’s Shed, extending the benefits to a broader community base.

Forest Lake Men's Shed — *Photo Credit: Forest Lake Men’s Shed/Facebook*

Community Reaction and Support

Local residents have voiced their support for the Men’s Shed, highlighting its vital role in the Forest Lake community. Social media discussions have reflected frustration over the sale of the current site, with many believing it was always intended to serve as a community centre.

A petition advocating for a new site has already gathered over 570 signatures, demonstrating strong community backing for the relocation effort.

Next Steps and Future Implications

The Forest Lake Men’s Shed is urging supporters to sign their ePetition, which will remain open until 30 April 2025, to encourage city officials to secure a new site. With time running out before the current lease expires, securing an alternative location is crucial to ensure the continuity of this valuable community resource.

SIGN PETITION HERE

Published 21-Jan-2025

Delays in CCTV Rollout Raise Community Safety Concerns in Forest Lake

A promise to improve safety in Forest Lake and other previously identified areas of Brisbane has come under scrutiny as the local community calls out delays in CCTV rollouts.

Background: A Safety Commitment in Question

The CCTV rollout, proposed in the lead-up to the March 2024 local leadership selection, included plans for cameras in 26 wards, targeting areas with high crime rates. The Forest Lake bus stop, in particular, has seen an uptick in serious incidents.

Despite the commitment, residents have been told the rollout may not occur for years, with officials stating that the cameras will be installed “this term” without specific timelines.

Forest Lake’s Ongoing Safety Issues

Recent violent incidents, including attacks near the bus stop underscore the need for improved surveillance at Forest Lake. Local safety advocates argue that installing mobile cameras would deter such crimes and enhance the sense of security for residents. Forest Lake is one of several locations highlighted by community members as increasingly unsafe, particularly for women.

Katie Dall, a community organiser and self-defence advocate, has voiced concerns about the lack of progress. She believes the cameras could serve as a deterrent and provide critical evidence for law enforcement. Ms Dall points out that even daylight hours no longer guarantee safety in some Brisbane suburbs, further stressing the urgency of action.

Forest Lake bus stop
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Community and Expert Responses

The delay in the CCTV rollout has drawn criticism from community members, who argue that the initiative is vital for improving safety in vulnerable areas like Forest Lake. Some claim that the project was expected to begin in early 2025 but has yet to show progress. This has led to concerns about public trust and whether the timeline will meet the immediate needs of residents.

Council representatives, however, have clarified that the timeline was not finalised but reaffirmed the commitment to completing the installations within the current term. They also highlighted other recent investments in public safety, including permanent cameras at locations such as Musgrave Park and Tinchi Tamba Wetlands.

Broader Safety Investments

Brisbanel manages a network of over 3,700 cameras as part of its CitySafe program. Recent additions to the network include permanent cameras in high-traffic areas to monitor and deter anti-social behaviour. Council has allocated $1.8 million this financial year to enhance its surveillance infrastructure.

While these measures have improved safety in some areas, critics argue that mobile cameras offer the flexibility to address emerging hotspots. Community members and experts alike continue to call for clarity and urgency regarding the CCTV rollout, particularly in high-risk locations such as Forest Lake.

Published 15-January-2025

Forest Lake Dog Owners Warned About Dewormer Resistance in Hookworms

Photo Credit: University of Queensland

Forest Lake, with the second-highest number of registered dogs in Brisbane, is facing a growing concern as a new study reveals widespread resistance to common deworming medication among hookworms.

A recent University of Queensland study, conducted in partnership with the University of Sydney, has found that 70% of hookworm samples across Australia show genetic mutations linked to resistance to benzimidazole-based dewormers.

These medications are one of the primary treatments for hookworm infections in dogs. This alarming discovery means that a common and effective treatment for these parasites might be losing its power, putting local dogs at risk.

The Dangers of Hookworms

Hookworms are nasty parasites that live in dogs’ intestines and feed on their blood. They can cause serious health problems like anaemia, diarrhoea, and weight loss. Puppies are particularly vulnerable, as a hookworm infection can be fatal. Worryingly, these parasites can also infect humans, causing a skin condition called cutaneous larva migrans (CLM), which leads to an itchy and uncomfortable rash.

Resistance on the Rise

*Photo Credit: Internal Journal of Parasitology*

Dr Swaid Abdullah, a veterinary expert from the University of Queensland, explained that the research team used advanced testing methods to examine hookworm samples from over 100 animals in Australia and New Zealand.

The results showed that resistance to benzimidazole dewormers was spreading, even affecting the northern hookworm, a species previously considered unaffected. Dr Abdullah stressed that the effectiveness of these drugs should be above 95%, but the study found it was falling below this level.

Overuse of Dewormers a Key Factor

Dr Abdullah believes that the widespread practice of “blind treatment” or deworming medication to dogs without testing for hookworms first is a major reason for the growing resistance. He compared it to the overuse of antibiotics, which has led to antibiotic resistance in many bacteria. Instead, he recommends a more targeted approach, similar to how doctors prescribe antibiotics only when necessary.

Protecting Your Pets and Family

The best way to protect your dog from hookworms is to have them tested twice a year and only treat them if they have an infection. Dr Abdullah also emphasised the importance of responsible pet ownership in preventing the spread of hookworms. Dog owners should always immediately pick up their faeces and dispose of them properly, even in their own yards. This simple action can help stop hookworms from infecting other dogs and humans.

Published Date 06-Jan-2025

Street Spotlight: Tropical Dr, Forest Lake

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Tropical Drive in Forest Lake tells a compelling story of transformation and community roots. From its modest beginnings in 1936, when University Road was sparsely populated and didn’t yet connect Grovely Terrace to Glen Holm Street, the area has evolved into a well-established residential pocket.

Today, with 65% of properties owner-occupied and an average residency of nearly 9 years, the street demonstrates strong neighbourhood stability. Historical sales data, such as 15 Tropical Drive trading for $367,000 in February 2006, offers fascinating insights into the area’s growth. Below, an aerial image from 1936 captures a glimpse of the street’s origins, while the fact that 37% of residents have called Tropical Drive home for over a decade speaks to its enduring appeal as a family-friendly destination.

Tropical Dr, Forest Lake Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 35
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 65%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 8 years and 10 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 37%

Tropical Dr, Forest Lake – As It Looked in 1936

Tropical Dr, Forest Lake in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON TROPICAL DR, FOREST LAKE

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
39 Tropical Dr, Forest Lake	NA	Oct 2024
2 Tropical Dr, Forest Lake	$940,000	Jul 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON TROPICAL DR FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
15 Tropical Dr, Forest Lake	$367,000	Feb 2006
5 Tropical Dr, Forest Lake	$185,000	Feb 2006
13 Tropical Dr, Forest Lake	$357,500	Apr 2006

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Forest Lake in 2024 was $730,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Forest Lake in 2020 was $386,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN FOREST LAKE SINCE 2020 : $344,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Forest Lake in 2024 was $865,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Forest Lake in 2020 was $501,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN FOREST LAKE SINCE 2020 : $364,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Forest Lake in 2024 was $1,125,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Forest Lake in 2020 was $628,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN FOREST LAKE SINCE 2020 : $497,000

If you know Tropical Dr, Forest Lake well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Blue-Green Algae Turns Forest Lake Toxic, Threatening Wildlife

An outbreak of blue-green algae at Forest Lake has turned the water green, emitted a strong stench, and led to concerns about wildlife deaths and potential health risks for the local community.

Community Alarm over Lake’s Condition

Residents of Forest Lake have expressed growing frustration and disappointment over the worsening state of the lake since mid-2024, when increasing algae levels caused the cancellation of the annual Dragon Boat race.

Many locals, have linked the poor water quality to the frequent deaths of wildlife in the area, describing the lake as “disgusting.” One resident noted the unbearable odour and expressed disappointment at the declining appeal of the once-popular spot for relaxation.

The blue-green algae infestation, caused by high levels of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, thrives in still water under warm, sunny conditions. This toxic bacteria can pose serious risks to humans and animals, including skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, and muscle cramps.

Wildlife is equally vulnerable, with fish and native species becoming ill or dying from prolonged exposure.

A Recurring Environmental Challenge

This is not the first time Forest Lake has faced an algae crisis. In 2019, a similar outbreak turned the lake’s water swamp-green and caused odours detectable up to 150 metres away. The ongoing issue highlights deeper ecological problems linked to urban stormwater runoff, which often carries fertilisers and other pollutants into the lake.

Response and Efforts to Restore the Lake

Council is addressing the situation with a collaborative, multi-pronged strategy. Teams from various branches, including Public Space Operations and the Natural Environment and Sustainability Branch, are working together on solutions. A spokesperson explained that recent above-average rainfall and warm weather have exacerbated the problem, creating ideal conditions for the algae bloom while complicating mitigation efforts.

Key actions include scientific analysis of water quality data and consultations with external organisations to trial potential treatment methods. Mid-December has been marked for further water testing. Proposed long-term measures include installing aeration hardware to improve water circulation and dissolved oxygen levels, thereby preventing stagnation and reducing the likelihood of future blooms.

Council has also engaged with the Queensland State Government to align its actions with state guidelines and explore additional treatment options. Community members are encouraged to reduce fertiliser use in their gardens to minimise nutrient runoff into the lake.

Published 14-Dec-2024

Doolandella and Inala Residents Among Five Charged in Major Drug Lab Bust

Queensland Police have uncovered an alleged commercial-scale methamphetamine laboratory in Logan, charging five people including residents from Doolandella and Inala in connection with the operation.

Read: Forest Lake Residents Step Up Efforts to Save Endangered Black Swan Cygnets

Major drug operation uncovered

During a raid on Tuesday, 22 October, detectives from the Drug and Serious Crime Group executed a search warrant at a Park Ridge property as part of Operation Whiskey Vivid. The operation, conducted jointly by Queensland Police Service (QPS) and Australian Border Force (ABF), revealed what police allege to be a sophisticated drug manufacturing facility.

Police report seizing approximately two kilograms of crystallised methylamphetamine (‘ice’) and five litres of methylamphetamine oil from the property. The raid also uncovered three firearms, including a semi-automatic rifle and two handguns, along with a substantial amount of cash.

Doolandella and Inala residents implicated

Among those charged are a 42-year-old man from Doolandella and a 32-year-old man from Inala. Both face multiple charges including producing dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs, and possession of property suspected of being used in connection with drug offences.

clandestine drug laboratory — Photo Credit: Youtube/QueenslandPolice

Three other individuals have also been charged: a Park Ridge couple, both aged 31, and a 32-year-old man from South Ripley.

A second raid at a Rocklea business premises yielded additional evidence, including cash, a cash counting machine, and ammunition. Police allege the group was coordinating the production and distribution of illegal drugs both within Queensland and interstate.

Detective Inspector Bradley Phelps from the Drug and Serious Crime Group emphasises the potential impact of the operation. “A clandestine lab of this scale can produce significant quantities of methylamphetamine which has the potential to cause untold community harm,” he says.

Read: Eastern Brown Snake Sends Shivers Through Forest Lake Community

The Synthetic Drug Operations Unit has been deployed to safely process and dismantle the laboratory. All five suspects are scheduled to appear before Beenleigh Magistrates Court, as investigations continue.

Police encourage anyone with information about drug production or distribution to contact Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au or via 1800 333 000.

Published 29-October-2024

Forest Lake Residents Step Up Efforts to Save Endangered Black Swan Cygnets

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The black swan population at Forest Lake is facing a serious decline, with cygnets dying within days of hatching due to a combination of predators and human interference.

Swan Deaths Cause Concern in the Community

In late May 2024, Forest Lake’s well-known black swan pair welcomed six cygnets, but by 8 June, one had already gone missing. This is not an isolated incident, as local residents have witnessed the swan population’s decline for over a decade.

Local Roddy Mackenzie has been observing the swans for many years and noted that in 2023, all but one cygnet died shortly after hatching. The RSPCA euthanised the surviving cygnet in September 2023 after it suffered severe injuries caused by a predator.

Previous years have shown similar trends. In March 2023, five cygnets born at the lake died within just 10 days. Adding to the tragedy, in April 2023, an adult swan had to be euthanised due to injuries from a fishing hook and line.

Forest Lake Black Swans — *Photo Credit: MargieNightingaleForInala/Facebook*

Human Interference Adds to Struggles

Human interference is also contributing to the challenges the black swans face. On 9 June 2024, a group of children attempted to take one of the cygnets from the lake, but local residents stopped them. The cygnet was returned to the water, but this incident has raised alarms within the community, prompting residents to increase their vigilance.

Forest Lake locals have taken to social media to spread awareness about the swans’ dangers and remind others of the importance of protecting the local wildlife. Residents have been working together to monitor the cygnets, hoping to prevent further incidents.

Efforts to Protect the Black Swans

In response to the ongoing concerns, the Forest Lake Swan Protection Group has been formed. The group, led by local resident Margie Nightingale MP, aims to gather data and collaborate with wildlife experts to help preserve the swan population. The group is exploring ideas such as tagging the swans, installing trail cameras, and increasing community awareness to better protect the birds.

The RSPCA has also issued guidelines to help safeguard the swans at Forest Lake. They recommend that residents avoid feeding the swans, which can harm their natural instincts and make them more vulnerable to predators. Litter, especially discarded fishing gear, has been identified as another major threat to the birds, with the RSPCA urging people to dispose of rubbish to prevent further harm properly.

Forest Lake residents remain hopeful that their efforts will lead to a better survival rate for future cygnets. With a combination of community action and expert guidance, locals are determined to reverse the trend of declining swan numbers.

The Swan Protection Group encourages locals to report any suspicious activity and remain vigilant as the swans and their young continue to face ongoing threats.

Phone Ms Nightingale at 07 3737 2100 if you want to become part of this community effort.

Published 15-Oct-2024

Eastern Brown Snake Sends Shivers Through Forest Lake Community

Photo Credit: Australian Museum

A sizeable eastern brown snake slithering through a resident’s backyard has caused concern in the Forest Lake community, prompting renewed warnings from snake experts as the weather warms up.

The discovery, made on Wednesday in the Creekwood Estate, was quickly shared on a local Facebook group, sparking a flurry of reactions from residents. The homeowner, who luckily spotted the snake before any children or pets were harmed, urged neighbours to be extra cautious when venturing outdoors.

With snake sightings on the rise across South East Queensland, the incident serves as a timely reminder of the importance of snake safety, particularly during the warmer months when these creatures become more active. Experts are reporting a surge in call-outs, with one snake catcher revealing he had attended over 600 incidents across the Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay regions in the past month alone.

Queenslanders are urged to be proactive to stay safe this snake season. It’s crucial to maintain a tidy yard by keeping grass short and removing potential hiding spots for snakes. Supervising children and pets is vital, mainly when playing in areas that attract snakes, such as long grass or sheds.

Homeowners should secure their property by sealing gaps under doors and consider installing snake-proof fencing if they live in an area prone to snake activity. If they encounter a snake, they should keep a safe distance and contact a professional snake catcher. Never attempt to handle or harm the snake yourself, as this increases the risk of being bitten.

The recent incident in Forest Lake has highlighted the need for residents to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid potentially dangerous encounters with snakes. By following expert advice and remaining vigilant, residents can help ensure their own and their loved ones’ safety.

Published Date 09-October-2024

Fast-Tracked Developments in Forest Lake and Pallara to Boost Local Housing Options

Two major housing developments in Forest Lake and Pallara have been fast-tracked to help meet the community’s growing need for housing options.

As part of a broader initiative to address Queensland’s housing shortage, these projects aim to deliver terrace homes, small-lot homes, and apartments, with a commitment to ensuring 15 per cent of these homes remain affordable.

The development in Forest Lake will create about 25 homes per hectare, providing a diverse range of housing types to suit different needs. Meanwhile, in Pallara, the development will cover a 3.23-hectare site, with plans for similar housing types.

40, 41, 50, 55 & 60 Woodvale Crescent and 205A Woogaroo Street, Forest Lake
70 & 78 Kraft Road, Pallara

Pallara Housing Development — *Photo Credit: QLDGovt*

Accelerating Development to Meet Community Needs

The fast-tracked nature of these developments is part of a streamlined approval process to speed up the delivery of new homes. By reducing approval times to just 75 business days, these projects are expected to begin construction sooner, providing much-needed housing options for families and individuals.

The developments are located in areas well-connected to essential services such as schools, public transport, and employment opportunities, making them ideal locations for new housing.

GM TFP Pty Ltd is leading the development in Pallara, while Woodvale Crescent Pty Ltd manages the Forest Lake project. These projects are expected to significantly increase the supply of new homes, alleviating some of the pressure in the local housing market.

Forest Lake Housing options — Forest Lake
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Pallara Housing Options — Pallara
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Supporting Local Housing Growth

In parallel with these fast-tracked projects, the Community Housing Futures program provides additional support to housing providers, ensuring they can manage and grow their housing portfolios. This program provides access to grants, training, and expert advice, helping community housing providers to expand their role in delivering more social and affordable homes across Queensland.

Managed by key organisations, including the Community Housing Industry Association (Queensland), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Queensland, and Q Shelter, the program focuses on helping housing providers strengthen their ability to meet local housing needs. This is seen as a critical part of the effort to increase the availability of affordable housing in communities across Queensland, ensuring that housing providers can continue to grow and support residents in need.

The developments are focused on creating well-located homes that are close to key services and amenities, helping to improve the quality of life for residents. The combination of fast-tracked approvals and community-focused support programs aims to ensure that more Queenslanders have access to safe, affordable, and well-connected housing options in the near future.

Published 2-Oct-2024

Forest Lake Locals Breathe Easier as New CCTV Cameras Target Crime Spree

Decisive action has been taken to combat a recent crime wave in Forest Lake, with four new CitySafe CCTV cameras installed in the bus stop area at Forest Lake Village. His move comes after several incidents last month, including ten businesses targeted by thieves and vandals in a single night.

The cameras are part of the Suburban Safety Cameras programme, which aims to increase security and discourage antisocial behaviour. The Forest Lake location was chosen in consultation with the Queensland Police Service to ensure targeted surveillance.

The new cameras boast cutting-edge technology and provide 24/7 monitoring, feeding directly into the security room. This enables swift response to any incidents detected. The installation follows a similar move in Mt Coot-tha in July, where cameras were placed along popular walking trails after a series of worrying events.

*Photo Credit:* *CRCharlesStrunk/ Facebook*

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner acknowledged the community’s concerns, stating that while crime is a state government issue. He emphasised a zero-tolerance policy for such behaviour and reassured residents that every effort is being made to apprehend the culprits.

The Suburban Safety Cameras programme is set to deploy 26 mobile cameras across various wards and fixed cameras at eight strategic locations, including parks, reserves, and community areas. The next phase of installations is planned for Tinchi Tamba Wetlands in Boondall and Minnippi Parklands in Murarrie.

Queensland Police Acting Chief Superintendent Mark Thompson praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of CCTV footage in investigations. He emphasised its dual role in providing evidence and deterring potential offenders. The enhanced security measures in Forest Lake and other areas will contribute significantly to community safety.

The Council has allocated $1.85 million this financial year to expand and improve the CCTV network. The new cameras will augment the existing network of over 3,750 safety cameras strategically placed throughout the city.

Published Date 16-September-2024