News

Communities across NSW will be adding a splash of orange to their outfits today to show their appreciation for NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) volunteers.

Wear Orange Wednesday, otherwise known as WOW Day, is being celebrated across the country today (Wednesday 17 May), as part of National Volunteer Week.

NSW SES volunteers across the state will be acknowledged and thanked by their communities, as the service reflects on a record-breaking year for volunteer efforts. During 2022, NSW SES volunteers responded to more than 80,000 requests for assistance, performed more than 3,800 flood rescues and saved more than 67,000 animals.

Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said it’s important to acknowledge the hard work of volunteers.

“We have more than 10,000 SES volunteers who work so tirelessly for their communities, and they do so without asking for thanks or praise,” Mr Dib said.

“Today, I will be wearing orange to show my support for this wonderful group of volunteers.”

NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM said today is a special day for the NSW SES.

“Today we are taking a moment to reflect on the remarkable work of our volunteers across the state,” Commissioner York said.

“Over the past 12 months we have seen our volunteers deploy across the state, helping people evacuate their flooded homes and dropping supplies to isolated communities. We have seen our volunteers respond to intense flooding in their own community, while also maintaining an important presence at road accidents, bush searches and providing first aid to the community.

“While our volunteers don’t do what they do for recognition or a pat on the back, it’s certainly important that we recognise them for all they do for our wider community.”

To learn more about WOW Day and how you can get involved, visit www.wowday.com.au/