31,710 reasons to say thank you this WOW Day

This 23 May is Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW) Day, a national day of thanks for the many Victoria State Emergency Services (VICSES) volunteers who support their local communities during flood, storm, landslide, road rescue, search and rescue, and more.

VICSES volunteers responded to more than 31,000 requests for assistance last year, equalling a total of 302,623 operational hours.

Held during National Volunteer Week, WOW Day encourages Australians to dress in orange as a show of thanks for this invaluable contribution.

VICSES CEO, Stephen Griffin, said the national campaign is an important day of appreciation for our volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time and skills to helping their communities during their times of greatest need.

“Every day our volunteers are prepared to drop everything and put on their orange overalls to respond to requests for assistance from their local communities,” Mr Griffin said.

“Wearing orange on 23 May at your workplace, school or wherever you may be, will show appreciation for our volunteers, along with the families and employers that make this support possible.”

Landmarks in Melbourne will be ‘flooded’ in orange in celebration of WOW Day, including AAMI Park, the MCG, Bolte Bridge and the Melbourne Star. Events and morning teas will also be held throughout the state.

To share a message of thanks to VICSES volunteers this WOW Day on facebook or twitter use the hashtag #thankyouSES and #WOWday.