​​Kids get creative about saving water for the future​

Over 1,200 students across Melbourne's south-east and the Mornington Peninsula have shared their ideas for a more water-wise future through the 2026 National Water Week poster competition.

This year's theme, Water Heroes: Make Every Drop Count, challenged students to think about how we can all use water wisely and protect this precious resource for future generations.

Across South East Water's service area, the competition received 357 entries from 57 schools and education providers.

From colourful illustrations of everyday water-saving actions to imaginative depictions of water heroes, this year's entries showcased the creativity and environmental awareness of local young people.

South East Water recently visited Harkaway Primary School to present the school with the 2026 School Award and recognise its outstanding participation in this year’s competition.

Alyssa Oakley from Harkaway Primary School said the competition helped students connect what they learnt in the classroom with real-world environmental issues.

"The competition helped bring classroom learning to life, giving students the opportunity to explore important environmental concepts in a fun way. 

“It really encouraged the students to think about how small actions can make a big difference," said Ms Oakley.

Four local students also received honours at the Victorian state competition:

• Lilian Cannam Kindergarten, South Melbourne: third in the Early Learning/Kindergarten Individual category

• ArtGu, Wantirna South: first in the Prep/Foundation category

• ArtGu, Wantirna South: joint third in the Years 3–4 category

• Waverley Christian College, Wantirna South: first in the Years 5–6 category.

South East Water General Manager Strategy and Stakeholder Karen Lau said the competition highlighted the important role young people can play in shaping conversations about water and the environment.

"Every year we're impressed by the thought and care students put into their entries.

"This year's posters showed a strong understanding of the value of water and the many ways we can all make every drop count. It's encouraging to see young people thinking about the future and sharing ideas that help protect one of our most precious resources."

View the full list of winners and placegetters.

Image caption:  South East Water Community and Stakeholder Adviser, Anita McKenzie alongside budding young artists who brought plenty of colour and creativity to this year’s competition.