Gippsland is getting a new winter food event in 2026, with the inaugural Noojee Truffle Festival set to transform the forests and farms around Noojee into a month-long celebration of fresh black truffles, regional produce and slow country travel.
Running from 10 July to 2 August, the festival invites visitors to explore the region through a self-guided series of truffle hunts, long lunches, forest walks and seasonal dining experiences built around locally grown French black truffles harvested at peak season.
Unlike traditional food festivals centred around one main site, the Noojee Truffle Festival has been designed as an extended regional trail. Visitors will be encouraged to move between truffle farms, cafés, pubs and nature experiences at their own pace, discovering different flavours and activities across the region.
At the centre of the festival are the truffles themselves, grown in the cool climate soils surrounding Noojee. Guests will have the opportunity to meet local growers, watch trained truffle dogs uncover hidden truffles beneath the earth and sample dishes that showcase the prized ingredient in both classic and creative ways.
Across the three-week program, visitors can expect chef-led dinners, tasting events, workshops, cooking demonstrations and farm experiences, alongside heritage and cultural activities woven throughout the district.
Beyond the food, the festival also shines a spotlight on the natural beauty of the area. Visitors can spend time exploring forest trails, scenic lookouts and cycling routes including the Rokeby to Neerim Rail Trail before settling into local pubs and accommodation by the fire.
For program details and updates, visit www.noojeetrufflefestival.com.au
