National Water Week

Each year, a National Water Week theme is selected to engage and inspire the community, bringing water to the forefront of our minds as we focus on all involved with this precious resource.

National Water Week 2026 | 19-25 October

In 2026, we’re inviting schools across Australia to explore how Water Connects Everything – not just in rivers and rain, but in the everyday things students do and use. From food and sport to gardens, energy, clothing, and the places we live, learn and play, water is part of it all. This theme encourages students to discover their local water story, including connections to Country and culture, and to turn that learning into practical ideas and actions at school and at home.

National Water Week Primary School Poster Competition

The National Water Week Primary School Poster Competition is an annual art competition open to Primary Schools across the country.

Thank you to all students, teachers and schools who participated in this year's competition. Council received a number of thoughtful and creative entries that reflected the 2026 theme, Water Connects Everything.

2026 Townsville Winners

First place: Matai London, Year 6 Holy Spirit School - $100 e-gift card

Second place: Charlotte Beale, Year 5 Cranbrook State School - $75 e-gift card

Third place: Clancy, Year  4 Hermit Park State School - $50 e-gift card

The winning local entries have been submitted to the Australian Water Association for national judging. National winners will be announced during National Water Week 2026.

Prizes

First place: $100 e-gift card

Second place: $75 e-gift card

Third place: $50 e-gift card

In addition, all participating schools will be entered into a single draw, with one school to win a $200 prize pack!

Winning local entries will then be submitted to the Australian Water Association (AWA) for national judging with national winners being announced during National Water Week.

Further information:

AWA Further Information and Judging Criteria

Water Education

In celebration of National Water Week, Townsville City Council encourages schools, TAFE and university groups, businesses and community organisations to book a free guided tour of the Douglas Discovery Hub. This tour offers a hands-on opportunity to explore the water cycle in action. Participants can discover the essential infrastructure that supports Townsville’s water systems, while learning how it integrates with and protects our natural environment.

In addition to tours, Council also provides classroom visits and curriculum-linked educational resources to support water literacy and environmental awareness across all age groups.

Find out more on our Douglas Water Discovery Hub Tour page.

Colouring In Worksheets

We’ve created a series of fun, educational water worksheets that are perfect for completing at home or school.

Resources