Foresters Financial

The Ancient Order of Foresters or as it is known today Foresters Friendly Society, originated in England in the mid 1700's, the first recorded Foresters meeting being held in Leeds in 1834. The Ancient Order of Foresters established its first branch (Court) in Victoria in 1849. Foresters was set up as a non-profit organisation, the founding princip... les of the Society being to provide financial and social benefits as well as support to Members and their families in times of unemployment, sickness, death, disability and old age. Foresters played a particularly active role in the lives of Members and their families during the Depression and during and after both World Wars. Forester's membership growth was significant during and up to the mid 1849's when the Society had nearly one hundred branches (Courts) spread throughout Victoria with representation in all States of Australia. During this period Foresters raised funds for and built around 20 Foresters halls throughout the State that were used for meetings and community purposes. Halls in country areas were being used as refuges in times of trauma such as bushfires and floods.Read More