St Xavier’s claims champion status at STEM Challenge

AS reported last week, young, bright and curious minds from across the region were buzzing with excitement at the 2026 National Science and Engineering Challenge, held at The Crossing Theatre in Narrabri.

This week’s edition features photos of the talented and enthusiastic St Xavier’s Primary School students, who travelled from Gunnedah to be part of the popular annual event, which aims to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.

St Xavier’s Primary School students George O’Keefe and Angus Snape.

A group of year 5 and 6 St Xavier’s Primary School students claimed champion status, with the young innovators showing amazing teamwork and critical thinking skills.

The three-day challenge offers students hands-on competitive science and engineering activities.

Teams tackle a range of engineering and science problems designed to test problem-solving skills.

As well as being bucketloads of fun, the STEM Challenge also has a competitive element and Narrabri High School’s strong track record endured, with the NHS winning first place on the third day, qualifying for the NSW State Finals in Newcastle.

On the first day, Gunnedah’s St Xavier’s Primary School’s year 5 and 6 group won the top spot and were crowned champion school and on the second day, the winners were Moree Public School students.

St Xavier’s Primary School students Annabelle Sims, Zoe Riordan and Maggie Gardner. Photos kindly supplied by school.

The National Science and Engineering Challenge is a nationwide STEM outreach program presented by the University of Newcastle in partnership with communities, Rotary clubs, universities and sponsors.

In the North West, the initiative is delivered by the University of Newcastle and hosted by the Rotary Club of Narrabri, with local Rotarians rallying volunteers to assist school teams throughout the Challenge and importantly, Rotary fueled students and staff with the group’s signature barbecue.

The North West event was organised by team leader Olivia Clarkson and event assistant Lily Morrison, both from the University of Newcastle.

The passionate pair are part of a bigger crew, who travel to 852 towns, including Narrabri, managing 150 event days in 80 locations each year.