Communities across NSW are encouraged to wear orange next week to show their appreciation for NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) volunteers.
Wear Orange Wednesday, otherwise known as WOW Day, is celebrated on Wednesday 17 May, which falls during National Volunteer Week (15-23 May 2023).
Minister for Emergency Services, Jihad Dib, said WOW Day gives the wider community the opportunity to acknowledge those who give up their time to serve others.
“We all know, love and respect the work of our SES volunteers, through storms and floods they are always there. Selflessly looking out for all of us and doing so without asking for thanks or praise,” Mr Dib said.
“Wearing orange this Wednesday 17 May is one small way to show your support for our amazing volunteers.”
NSW SES Commissioner Carlene York APM echoed Mr Dib’s call to show appreciation for volunteers.
“We want to make sure our volunteers know their work doesn’t go unnoticed. They take time away from their families, their employers and their livelihoods to support their community during times of need,” Commissioner York said.
“WOW Day is a time to reflect on the remarkable work our volunteers do in their own communities, and across the whole of NSW.
“While NSW SES will be celebrating in our own special way, our partner SES agencies across Australia will also be honouring their members. We would also like to extend our appreciation to those SES members who deployed to support us in our time of need last year, and to everyone across the nation who serves their community.”
