Queensland Police Service (QPS) headquarters was flooded with orange outfits this morning in celebration of our State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers.
Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW) is a nationally dedicated day which gives thanks the thousands of selfless SES volunteers stationed across the state and country.
WOW takes place annually on the Wednesday of National Volunteers Week (May 19 - May 25).
Police headquarters joined in the festivities with a volunteer stall, a visit from SES mascot Paddy Platypus, Macca the support dog, orange cookies and a 'Guess the Lollies in the Jar' competition.
Police officers and staff alike added a splash of orange to their outfits including shirts, ties, ribbons and other eye-catching accessories.
Since WOW last year, there have been 23,000 requests for SES assistance, 20,000 have been this year alone.
A third of these requests were for structural tasks relating to damaged and leaking properties where SES volunteers have temporarily repaired homes and prevented further damage.
When they are not helping our communities through disasters, our SES volunteers are training, operating chainsaws, performing search and rescues, and educating the community on how to safeguard their home when disaster strikes.
Acting Deputy Commissioner Chris Stream expressed his gratitude at the WOW celebrations this morning, thanking volunteers for their time and efforts.
"No matter what drives you to donate your time to helping your community, please know that it makes a huge difference to our community," Acting Deputy Commissioner Stream said.
"Today is more than just adding orange to an outfit- it's a heartfelt thank you to the SES volunteers who brave storms, floods, road crashes and other emergencies to keep our communities safe.
"Their dedication, often performed in challenging conditions, is nothing short of inspiring."
SES Chief Officer Mark Armstrong acknowledges the ongoing strong contribution of the SES volunteers, thanking the Queensland cohort of 5000 individuals who give their time to keep their community safe.
"Thank you to each and every single one of our volunteers who are dedicated to supporting Queenslanders through rain, hail or shine, around the clock, every day of the year," Chief Officer Armstrong said.
"We have teams of remarkable volunteers who, day-after-day, bring incredible dedication, knowledge and expertise to this organisation,"
Can you see yourself in orange? Volunteer with the SES. https://www.ses.qld.gov.au/join-us
How the rest of Queensland celebrated
Across Queensland, celebrations continued in every corner of the state.
Local government organisations, community groups and emergency services hosted barbeques, morning teas and dinners.
Schools got involved with orange-themed activities such as coloring competitions and writing Paddy postcards to SES volunteers.
Billboards and signage were present across the state to encourage Queenslanders to wear orange for the special occasion.
For assistance with a life-threatening situation phone Triple Zero (000) immediately.
For assistance with non-life-threatening situations - such as help with a damaged roof or storm damage - phone SES on 132 500.
Keep up to date with the latest weather advice at Queensland Warnings Summary (bom.gov.au).
