The Kids Research Institute Australia is returning to Kalgoorlie on 20 and 21 May 2026, to host its second STEM Festival and set off a chain-reaction of fun, with two idea-fuelled days of activities planned for local children and families.
This year’s festival highlights home-grown innovation, with visiting researchers from The Kids set to offer an inside look at local research unfolding throughout the Goldfields.
The festival offers a unique opportunity to delve into the exciting world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), where kids can explore interactive displays, meet researchers, engage in educational and fun activities, and see STEM in action.
Approximately 600 school students are booked into multiple sessions across two days, and the local community is invited to come and enjoy the festival on both afternoons from 3:30pm – 5:30pm, with free food, music and STEM activities for families.
Activities include:
- Bacteriophage Hunters - Children will be introduced to bacteriophages or phages, learn where they’re sourced from natural environments, and how they’re matched to target harmful bacteria in people as an alternative to antibiotics to fight infections.
- Hand Washing and Infection Control - This eye-opening activity raises awareness of how germs can remain on your hands after ineffective washing, using UV-sensitive lotion and ultraviolet light to reinforce the critical role of good hand-hygiene.
- Antibody Detectives - An introduction to how the immune system responds to infection and vaccinations., Students will analyse simulated blood samples to find antibodies, and determine whether the individual may be protected, require a booster vaccination, or hais yet to be vaccinated.
Dr Hannah Thomas, a postdoctoral researcher in the Healthy Skin and Acute Rheumatic Fever (ARF) Prevention team, said it wa’s incredibly exciting to be heading to Kalgoorlie for the STEM Festival.
“I’m really looking forward to connecting with local families, students, and educators to share ideas, learn from each other, and explore what STEM can look like in everyday life,“ Dr Thomas said.
“This event creates space for curiosity and encourages kids to consider all the exciting possibilities that can come with a career in STEM.”
This year’s festival is made possible thanks to the generous support of Lynas Rare Earths, Curtin University, Engineers Australia and CFC Group Foundation.
With Gold Industry Group and the Museum of the Goldfields returning to take part, and new exhibitors Goldfields STEM, Goldfields Robotics Club, and the Chamber of Minerals and Energy, the Kalgoorlie STEM festival is a great opportunity to connect students to local career opportunities in STEM.
The Kids STEM Festivals fulfill The Kids’ goal to connect regional communities in Western Australia with its research and to inspire a passion for STEM in young children in regional communities.
About the STEM Festival
The Kids Research Institute Australia's STEM Festival brings real-life science to the community, inspiring a passion for STEM through hands-on workshops and activities. By connecting students with our researchers and local organisations, we aim to:
- Inspire the next generation to pursue STEM careers
- Foster community engagement for future research
- Showcase local science opportunities
- Celebrate Indigenous Australian scientific knowledge
Event details
Day 1 - Community STEM Festival
Date: Wednesday, 20 May
Time: 3:30pm – 5:30pm
Location: Graduates Hall, Curtin University
Cost: Free
Day 2 - Community STEM Festival
Date: Thursday, 21 May
Time: 3:30 - 5:30pm
Location: Graduates Hall, Curtin University
Cost: Free
First published Friday 1 May 2026.
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