The colour orange is synonymous with bright overalls donned by South Australia’s dedicated SES volunteers and today marks a special opportunity for the community to show appreciation for those who help keep our state safe.
WOW Day – Wear Orange Wednesday – is an annual initiative held during National Volunteer Week (NVW) which runs from Monday, 17 May, through to Sunday, 23 May.
Minister for Emergency Services, Vincent Tarzia, said SES volunteers will be celebrated across Australia today and encouraged South Australians to wear something orange.
“South Australia’s selfless SES volunteers drop everything at a moment’s notice to answer the call and protect the community during emergencies, rain, hail or shine,” Minister Tarzia said.
“The SES’ incredible work does not go unnoticed by the Marshall Liberal Government and I want to take this opportunity to thank each volunteer for their valuable service.
“I’m encouraging every South Australian to wear orange today to show their thanks – it’s the least we can do to demonstrate our appreciation.”
The Riverbank footbridge, Adelaide Festival Centre and Viterra grain silo at Port Lincoln will light up orange today in tribute to the approximately 1,600 SES volunteers who serve the community.
SES Chief Officer Chris Beattie said WOW Day is an important day of recognition and appreciation for volunteers.
“Our volunteers respond to call outs at all hours of the day and night, sometimes missing important family celebrations,” Mr Beattie said.
“They also commit many hundreds of hours to training, maintaining their skills so they are as prepared as possible when an emergency occurs.”
Share your appreciation for the SES on social media by taking a picture in orange and post using the hashtags #thankyouSES and #WOWDay.
Pets are welcome to join in the celebration.
