The transition
About the association
The Noojee & District Community Development Association grew out of the Shaping the Future of Noojee project — a four-year, community-led effort to give the district a lasting, coordinated voice.
How we got here
2022–2023 — Shaping the Future of Noojee commences. Baw Baw Shire Council completed a contextual analysis of the district, and Innovation Working Groups were formed to carry community ideas forward.
2024–2025 — the Local Development Strategy concludes. The project transitioned to ongoing governance arrangements with the establishment of a project Governance Group.
2025–2026 — the Healthy Forest Pilot Plan is announced. Noojee was selected as a pilot site, with the Governance Group involved in initial and ongoing discussions around its development.
April 2026 — the association is established. Community consultations and planning led to the formation of an incorporated entity to coordinate ongoing Innovation Working Group projects and Healthy Forests Pilot Plan engagement and co-design.
December 2026 — Shaping the Future of Noojee concludes. The Governance Group completes the transition of its ongoing functions to the Noojee & District Community Development Association.
Meet the inaugural committee
Glenn Fenton, Chairperson
Glenn has owned Nationwide Trees in Piedmont for 24 years. He has been actively involved in community committees, including as Chair of the Mt Baw Baw Tourist Road Disaster Community Recovery Committee, Co-chair of Specialised Agriculture Industry Development, and Co-chair of the Governance Group for the Forestry Transition Project.
Heather Gillespie, Vice-Chairperson & Treasurer
Heather is the owner and operator behind Ridge Road Blooms, Noojee. Heather has lived and raised a family in Noojee for 39 years, and has been an active member of the community throughout this time.
Sharnee Moore, Secretary
Sharnee has lived in Piedmont for 3 years. She brings over 20 years of public sector policy and evaluation experience, focused on building a strong child and family service sector. Sharnee has held leadership roles in a variety of community organisations.
Cath Fairbairn, Assistant Treasurer
Cath has resided in Noojee for the past 8 years. Her background spans ownership of three small businesses and management roles in the disability sector. She works locally and is an active community member.