A community-led response to a moment of real change
NNEST began through more than eighteen months of extended community conversations — in informal settings, not predetermined planning.
Noojee is a small West Gippsland town whose identity is shaped by the forest, the river, and its residents — multigenerational families and newcomers alike. Recent years have brought real change: native timber harvesting has ended, the primary school has closed, and visitor patterns are shifting.
NNEST (Noojee Environment, Nature, Sustainable Tourism) is a community-led, not-for-profit association activating the Noojee Library as a hub for wellbeing, learning, creativity, and nature connection. The former Primary School site is the future-expansion prospect.
How we're governed
The community sits at the centre and serves the community — not the other way around.
NNEST is incorporated under Victoria's Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012 and operates under Consumer Affairs Victoria's Model Rules.
Committee (elected 30 April 2026): President: Jess Barrett · Secretary: Cam Incoll · Treasurer: Linda Devenney · Founding members: Rebecca Baird, Michael Barrett, Frances Hoy.
Our partners & community network
NNEST works through a collaborative network of facilitators, local businesses and community members. Current relationships include Baw Baw Shire Council and DEECA (the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action).