Community insights inform Noojee forestry transition project

Noojee residents, business owners and community members have shared insights to support a thriving and economically sustainable future for the town.  

As part of the Victorian Forestry Plan’s Local Development Strategy program, Council is supporting the Shaping the Future of Noojee project which is working with communities in Noojee and the surrounding towns of Piedmont, Loch Valley, Toorongo, Vesper, Icy Creek and Tanjil Bren, to undertake long-term planning and identify opportunities for innovation and economic growth. 

Between October 2022 and February 2023, 110 interviews were conducted with residents, property owners, employees, volunteers, businesses, and government agencies to identify local strengths and explore opportunities and social benefits to the area. Some of the common themes include:  

• The Environment - Opportunities include ecotourism, an educational farm facility, environmental education facility, industry educational facility and environment management.
• Small Agricultural Industry Development  - The agricultural businesses in Noojee, whilst small-scale, are market leaders in their respective areas. Opportunities include exploring and expanding the industry in the region.
• Off-grid Renewable Energy - Noojee’s unique landscape and history makes it a possible locale for renewable energy innovation opportunities.      

The Noojee community and surrounding towns are invited to submit their thoughts on the data gathered so far via a short survey available on Council’s website. The survey will be open to local community members to complete until 11 April 2023. 

To learn more about the Shaping the Future of Noojee project and see the interview data summary, go to: https://www.bawbawshire.vic.gov.au/Noojee   

To get in touch with the Shaping the Future of Noojee project lead, please contact Krystal Barr via phone 03 5624 2578, or email krystal.barr@bawbawshire.vic.gov.au  

Quote attributable to Mayor Cr Annemarie McCabe 
“The Shaping the Future of Noojee project is all about collaborating with the Noojee community to gather a greater understanding of the town’s assets, challenges and opportunities from those who know it best.  

It was great that so many passionate residents, business owners and members of the community participated in the interviews and shared their thoughts on what they would like to see for the future of Noojee. We look forward to seeing how this exciting project progresses through to the next stages.”  

Image: Community event held in Noojee on 26 March, where the summarised interview data was shared with the community.