NNEST Brings Community Hope Back for the Former Noojee Primary School

NNEST is continuing positive discussions with the Victorian School Building Authority about the possible community use of the former Noojee Primary School site.

NNEST has formally expressed interest in establishing a community and nature-based field hub at the site.

The Victorian School Building Authority has been constructive and supportive throughout the early discussions. Access arrangements are now being progressed so NNEST can begin coordinating preliminary inspections of the buildings and grounds.

These inspections will help us better understand:

• The condition of the site
• What repairs or upgrades may be required
• Whether the proposed use is practical, compliant, and financially achievable

Initial areas to be reviewed include:

• General building condition
• Electrical systems
• Septic system
• Accessibility
• Concrete repairs
• Planning requirements
• Bushfire considerations

A number of local businesses, tradespeople, and community members have already offered professional advice, practical assistance, or in-kind support. Their contribution is enormously valuable to a volunteer-led organisation and will help NNEST build a realistic understanding of what may be required before any long-term decisions are made.

NNEST would also welcome hearing from qualified tradespeople, professionals, or community members who may be willing to assist as this work progresses.

NNEST is also interested in speaking with organisations, businesses, and service providers that can see value in the project and would like to discuss how becoming a project partner may benefit both their work and the wider community.

More than a general-purpose venue

The vision is not simply to create another general-purpose venue.

NNEST is exploring a working community and nature-based field hub where people can gather, learn, share practical skills and knowledge, build local resilience, and connect with the surrounding landscape.

Possible future activities may include:

• Practical workshops
• Nature education
• Citizen science
• Traditional and emerging skills
• Food resilience projects
• Emergency preparedness
• Nature-based wellbeing activities
• Seasonal events connecting the community with regional growers, makers, and producers

The site may also provide opportunities for partnerships with:

• Schools
• Training providers
• Local businesses
• Community organisations
• Visiting practitioners

Still early days

There is still a considerable amount of work to be done. No final agreement has been reached, and any future use of the site will depend on inspections, planning and compliance advice, funding, insurance, and State Government approval.

However, the opportunity represents an encouraging step towards bringing a valued community site back into use.

Anyone interested in supporting the project, assisting with assessments, or discussing a potential partnership is encouraged to contact NNEST.

We will continue to share updates as the project progresses.