WOW Day, which is on Wednesday 20 May, celebrates the dedication of SES volunteers across the country and recognises the vital role they play in keeping communities safe.
NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Moruya Unit Commander Emily Chapman, joined in 2023, driven by a passion for helping others and giving back to her community.
A proud First Nations woman and mother of three, Emily balances her leadership role within the NSW SES alongside a career in Diversity and Inclusion in the Banking and Finance industry.
"Being part of the NSW SES means supporting people on what can be one of the hardest days of their lives," Emily said.
"Knowing you've made a real difference for someone in your community is incredibly rewarding."
For Emily, that commitment to service is now inspiring the next generation, with her 17 year old son Archie recently joining the Moruya Unit.
Now in Year 12, Archie decided to volunteer after seeing firsthand the impact SES members have during emergencies and natural disasters.
"He saw joining the SES as a great opportunity to build skills and experience that will support his future, while also giving back to the community," Emily said.
"It's been incredible to watch him step into the role."
For Emily, volunteering is about more than responding to emergencies. It's about leading by example.
"Knowing my sons are watching pushes me to lead in a way that shows what it really means to step up for others and be part of a community," she said.
"More than anything, I hope they see that community isn't just something you belong to, it's something you can and should contribute to."
Emily said one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering with the NSW SES is the strong sense of connection among members.
"You become part of an orange family that always has each other's backs," she said.
"You build skills you never expected and form friendships that last a lifetime."
This WOW Day, the NSW SES celebrates volunteers like Emily and Archie, who embody the spirit of service, leadership and community resilience.
