Neighbourly Bonds Strengthen in Forest Lake Amid Busy Lifestyles

A Forest Lake family has built a strong bond with their next-door neighbours, offering a rare example of close community ties in an era of declining neighbourly interaction.

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Stronger Ties Forming in Forest Lake

When Peter and Kiera Chapman relocated with their three children to Forest Lake, they did not expect the relationships they would quickly form with their neighbours. Within a month of settling in, the family had become close with those next door—an experience they hadn’t shared in nearly a decade at their previous address.

National Trend of Social Disconnection

Recent research by Real Insurance and MyMavins highlights a wider trend across the country. About 65 per cent of Australians surveyed reported not meeting neighbours even after six months of living side by side. The findings also revealed that nearly three-quarters of Queenslanders believed people are less interested in forming relationships with neighbours now compared to 20 years ago.

Daily Support Between Households

In Forest Lake, the Chapmans’ children regularly spend time at the neighbour’s home after school. The neighbouring household, where Diane Greig cares for her two grandchildren, has become a regular part of their routine. The connection now feels like an extension of the family, with the children moving freely between both homes.

Time Pressures Limit Community Interaction

According to Mr Chapman, the increasing pressure of dual full-time work and rising living costs has left many families with limited time to interact with those around them. He said these factors have contributed to the wider decline in community connections and social availability.

Safety and Belonging Through Connection

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Despite the challenges, the Chapmans found that reaching out to neighbours helped them settle into Forest Lake more easily. Many residents in the area had been there for several years, contributing to a sense of local stability. Building that initial relationship has helped them feel safer and more supported in their new environment.

Published 12-June-2025