Baw Baw Shire Council is thrilled to welcome a $173,000 Victorian Government grant to help bring a new annual truffle festival to Noojee in 2026.
The three-week festival will run during the truffle harvest time in July and August, and preparations are already underway.
The funding is part of the Forestry Transition Program's Community Development Fund and will be delivered over three years. Noojee is one of 11 Victorian towns and communities receiving support as they transition their local economy and create new job opportunities in sustainable industries.
Baw Baw Shire Mayor Councillor Kate Wilson said the new festival would be a tourism boost for our local community and businesses.
"This festival will showcase the locally grown black truffle with food and produce workshops taking place as well as farm gate tours, truffle hunts with dogs, cooking demonstrations and artisan market stalls," Cr Wilson said.
"The Festival will provide an opportunity for our community and visitors to experience this locally produced gourmet product. The Truffle Growers Group is collaborating with surrounding hospitality venues to create a range of truffle-inspired dishes that will cater to all budgets.
"We thank the Victorian Government for their support to help us showcase the region's rich variety of local produce to the whole of Victoria.
"This project is one of many we have been supporting our community to lead and deliver as they continue to transition away from native timber harvesting."
The Noojee Truffle Growers Group is also working closely with Council to bring the festival to life and will provide $75,000 in-kind support for the event.
Exact dates and locations will be released to the community over the coming months.
