14 September 2026
Power and Water is inspiring the next generation of Territory engineers, scientists and innovators through its Community Partnerships Program.
As part of the program, Power and Water awarded Nakara Primary School a grant to help deliver the internationally recognised FIRST LEGO League program, which encourages students to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through hands-on robotics, coding and real-world problem solving.
Over the next six months, students will work in teams to design, build and program LEGO-based robots while developing valuable skills in collaboration, communication, creativity and critical thinking.
The program kicked off recently with a two-day STEM workshop at Nakara Primary School, bringing together 96 students from six Darwin schools. The workshops were delivered by experienced educator and long-time FIRST LEGO League coach, mentor and referee, Mic Lowne from Melbourne, who shared his expertise with students, teachers and volunteers.
A dedicated coaches and mentors’ workshop also took place, with 14 teachers participating in person and online from Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs, helping strengthen STEM capability across the Territory.
Power and Water Senior Manager Corporate Affairs, Jane de Gault, said investing in initiatives like FIRST LEGO League helps create opportunities for young Territorians while supporting the Territory’s future workforce.
‘Our Community Partnerships Program supports projects and initiatives that shape the future of the Territory, care for and support Territorians, and help communities thrive,’ she said.
‘This particular project also complements the many initiatives we run or support to spark an interest in STEM careers and encourage young people to explore rewarding career pathways that contribute to the Territory's future.
‘Through initiatives such as our That’s My Water! schools program and our new That’s My Career! program, we’re helping to build a pipeline of future engineers, scientists, innovators and problem-solvers.’
Nakara Primary School STEM Coordinator Jonno Brunton welcomed the support.
‘The support from Power and Water has helped take FIRST LEGO League in the Territory to the next level,’ he said.
‘Our students are confidently choosing gears that work well together, making drop-in attachments to save them time during the robot game and using more sophisticated code. It’s exciting to see so many young Territorians developing the skills that will help shape our future.’
The FIRST LEGO League program will culminate in the Regional Final in October, where students will have the opportunity to showcase the skills they have developed throughout the year.
Power and Water’s 2027 Community Partnership Program opens in October. Visit Community partnerships | Power and Water Corporation for more information.
Media contact: 0401 117 599 / media@powerwater.com.au
Caption: Students from Nakara Primary School take part in the LEGO event.
