Students from 13 primary schools across the state have participated in the 2025 South Australian chapter of the Kids in Space Showcase event, held at Riverdale Primary School on 24 June.
An initiative of The Andy Thomas Space Foundation, supported by The Australian Space Agency, and delivery partner Makers Empire, the national program challenges students to use design thinking to solve a space-related challenge.
Students in this year’s challenge were asked to put STEM knowledge into action to help astronauts live and work in space or solve a problem on Earth using space technologies.
The winning SA entry, presented by Year 5/6 students Jayme, Jed, Brooke, and Carliah from Riverdale Primary School, was a ‘Plant Grower’ machine for space missions to help astronauts have a more readily available supply of healthy and delicious food.
The machine – using water, steam, coffee ground fertiliser, and white vinegar – incorporated both humidity and different coloured LED lights to assist plant growth.
Defence SA’s Executive Director Defence and Industry, Ian Spencer, who was on the judging panel, said: “The Riverdale students sought to solve a real-world problem in a novel way; they demonstrated a high degree of evidence related to the space industry and connecting with experts in the field.
“Overall, it was a terrific day. It was so exciting to see young people with such enthusiasm for space, engaged in teamwork. Many of them presented like professionals.
“The projects were complex and well thought through. This initiative highlights the remarkable talent and enthusiasm within the next generation.
“We thank the Andy Thomas Space Foundation for its vital role in nurturing curiosity and driving interest in space and science.
“We’re in safe hands.”
Students from the following SA schools participated in the showcase event on 24 June:
- Coomandook Area School, Coomandook
- IQRA College, O’Halloran Hill
- John Hartley School, Smithfield Plains
- Kaurna Plains School, Elizabeth
- Manoora Primary School, Manoora
- Palmer Primary School, Palmer
- Riverdale Primary School, Salisbury Plains
- Snowtown Primary School, Snowtown
- St Columba College, Andrews Farm
- St James School, Jamestown
- St Peter’s Woodlands Grammar School, Glenelg
- Sunrise Christian School, Naracoorte
- Westport Primary School, Semaphore Park.
The Riverdale Primary School team is now set to compete in the national final at the Australian Space Discovery Centre at Lot Fourteen in November.
Learn more about the 2025 Kids in Space Program.
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Photo: Darcey Watson, Executive Officer, The Andy Thomas Space Foundation, joins Defence SA Executive Director (Defence and Industry), Ian Spencer in congratulating Riverdale Primary School students Jayme, Jed, Brooke, and Carliah on winning the Kids in Space state final.
