Description
The Irish National Foresters (INF) Friendly Society is almost forgotten in the history of Victoria. Founded in Ireland in 1877, it commenced in Melbourne in 1886 and eventually expanded around Australia.
The INF provided a rallying point for Irish Australians. It supported a social network of Irish music, dancing, sports, educational activities, medical services, income benefits and support to members. The society also campaigned strongly for Irish Independence in Ireland as the INF saw itself still vitally connected to broader issues back home.
Originally the INF was non-denominational, however, it eventually aligned with the Catholic Church. Famous Victorian Catholic Archbishop, Daniel Mannix, was an honorary member and became the INF’s long term patron.
Like most Friendly Societies in Australia, they suffered a decline by the 1960’s with the nationalisation of healthcare and the assimilation of Irish culture into the broader Australian community. The INF eventually closed in the early 2000’s.
The INF is an example of a society that helped keep the Irish community together and assisted in the breaking down of some of the social barriers that existed for the Irish in their early years in Australia. A chapter in Australian history well worth remembering.
Specifications:
Publisher: Self-published
Year: 2025
Format: Paperback
Pages: 173pp
ISBN: 9780646719665
239 A'Beckett Street Melbourne, Victoria, 3000 
03 9326 9288 
office@historyvictoria.org.au 
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Janine Marshall Wood –
A fascinating read about the very little known Irish National Foresters Friendly Society in Victoria. I had never heard of them so every page of James Nicolas’s book held treasures for me, as I am sure it will for every reader who can get their hands on it. In addition to all that amazing information, obviously the result of thorough research, Nicolas has dug up many old photographs to illustrate the history.
Recommended to all who have Irish roots in Victoria, and also to any who are interested in discovering more about Victoria’s past.