FAQs

The working group has identified that the proposed projects would provide the following benefits to the community; 

• A more vibrant community that attracts young families,
• Local employment opportunities,
• Increased investment in the region by visitors,
• Attracting visitors who will look after the environment,
• Improved infrastructure,
• Greater community cohesion,
• Establishing Noojee as a place of rest, relaxation and exploration.

The working group has identified several key challenges to address and overcome, they include:

• Insufficient accommodation available,
• Limited suitable land availability for new projects if the Noojee Primary School is deemed inappropriate or is not available for repurposing,
• Inclement weather and environmental risks (fire, flood and storm damage),
• Protecting the rustic “Noojeeness”,
• Identification and establishment of an appropriate management model e.g., a Community Committee of Management,
• Road maintenance and congestion,
• Poor phone and internet reception outside of the Noojee town centre.

The working group believes Noojee has the following competitive advantages when it comes to the development of a multi-purpose community hub and education centre in the region:

• Noojee is in a valley surrounded by forest with unique flora and fauna, including endangered and threatened species
• The Noojee Primary School (currently destaffed)
• Surrounding established tracks and trails
• Historical artifacts both in the town centre (The Noojee Railway Station Precinct) and throughout the forest
• Accessibility of the school and forest from the town centre and suitable bus parking locations
• Noojee’s proximity to Melbourne makes it an attractive day trip location
• The Noojee Recreation Reserve (next to the Noojee Primary School) is managed by DEECA who are willing to explore mechanisms for community management of Crown Land, enabling possible expansion of the Noojee Primary School site if warranted for activities
• There are several operational models e.g., permanent teaching staff, a facility booked for excursions with visiting students and teachers, and third-party facilitators such as The Gould League, who have also expressed interest in the site at Noojee.