Water Management Educational Opportunities

In 2025, the University of Newcastle supported community education in sustainable water management through hands-on learning activities, research engagement and partnerships with schools, government and industry. These initiatives provided opportunities for local communities to develop practical knowledge of water conservation, water quality, aquatic ecosystems and the sustainable management of water resources.

H2KnOw STEM Day 2025

In September 2025, the University of Newcastle partnered with Central Coast Council, GHD, Rumbalara and the Central Coast Academy of STEM Excellence to deliver a free educational day called H2KnOw STEM Day. Held at the University's Ourimbah campus on 23 September, the event brought together students from seven Central Coast high schools for a day of hands-on learning about water management, environmental sustainability and careers in the water industry.

Students participated in five interactive activities designed to demonstrate the practical applications of science, engineering and environmental management in protecting water resources. Activities included designing reservoirs and pipelines, investigating aquatic ecosystems, constructing water filters, and exploring water infrastructure planning using virtual reality and drone technology. Students also examined the influence of weather conditions on water quality, gaining insights into the challenges involved in managing water resources sustainably.

As outlined in the 2025 H2KnOw program information, the University contributed a water-quality monitoring laboratory activity, providing students with practical experience in assessing water quality using laboratory techniques. Through collaboration with industry, government and education partners, the event connected classroom learning with real-world water management challenges, helping students develop an understanding of water security, environmental monitoring and the importance of sustainable water resource management. Further details are available in Central Coast Council's 2025 event report.

Connecting research, education and community resilience

The University's Centre for Integrated Resilience: Coasts, Water and Climate brings together expertise in environmental science, engineering and social science to address challenges affecting water security, coastal environments, climate resilience and ecosystem health.

Through collaboration with government, industry, First Nations communities and regional stakeholders, the Centre supports the exchange of research knowledge and the development of practical approaches to managing water-related environmental challenges.

These partnerships create opportunities to connect scientific research with community knowledge, supporting greater understanding of water management, environmental monitoring and the protection of aquatic ecosystems.

Through educational outreach and research partnerships, the University helps make water management knowledge more accessible to local communities and encourages informed approaches to protecting water resources.