WOW Day calls communities to recongise the dedication of more than 11,000 NSW SES volunteers who respond to floods, storms and other emergencies by wearing orange, with this year's celebrations focused on the growing youth presence within the Service.
This growth has been driven in part by a revitalised Youth Internship Program, reintroduced last year, which has already seen more than 31 school-aged participants transition into full-time volunteer roles across the state.
SES volunteers in the 15-24 age bracket saw the largest growth last year - increasing by 12% (1,420 volunteers) with more than 3,590 volunteers under 35.
The SES have introduced a range of initiatives to encourage volunteers to join, from setting up spontaneous volunteer programs to partnering with the The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award - Australia, as the SES looks at new pathways to meet the changing needs of communities.
Volunteer numbers remain strong across NSW, but the increasing intensity of natural disasters and changing nature of volunteering means organisations are adapting.
Following the Mid North Coast floods in May last year, more than 1,200 people joined the SES-supported "Mud Muster", helping neighbours with clean-up and early recovery. Many of these community volunteers have since expressed interest in ongoing service, with hundreds applying to become permanent SES members.
Last year, NSW SES members collectively contributed almost 900,000 volunteer hours supporting their communities having attended more than 61,000 incidents. This included more than 45,000 storm related jobs and more than 1,100 flood rescues.
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said it was pleasing to see young volunteers joining the state's emergency response.
"From devastating floods to the destructive impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, NSW SES volunteers have worked tirelessly to save lives and support communities," Minister Dib said.
"Today we recognise those who wear orange and the work they have done protecting communities across the state. Our SES volunteers don't seek praise, but they absolutely deserve it and wearing orange is a simple gesture that means a great deal."
The Minister joined the Auburn SES unit where local schools from the region were invited to see first-hand the work of volunteers and learn how they can participate.
"Volunteering in NSW is not standing still, it's adapting to meet the changing needs of our communities and with more than 30 per cent of SES volunteers under 35, it's clear the next generation is stepping forward," Minister Dib said.
"We're proud to support younger volunteers to build the skills, confidence and leadership that will shape the future of volunteer emergency services."
"The SES will always welcome more volunteers and continues to evolve to offer a greater variety of interesting roles. Whether you're interested in flood rescue, driving a high clearance vehicle, catering, communications, logistics or operating a drone, our emergency services provide a wide range of opportunities to participate."
NSW SES Commissioner Mike Wassing AFSM said WOW Day is an important opportunity to acknowledge the commitment and sacrifice of volunteers across the state, particularly younger members.
"Our members take time away from their families, their workplaces and their livelihoods to protect others. WOW Day is a chance to say thank you and to remind them that their work does not go unnoticed," Commissioner Wassing said.
"There's obviously a strong appetite among young people to serve their communities and I commend them for their selflessness and dedication."
"By investing in young people, we are strengthening community resilience into the future, ensuring the NSW SES remains ready to respond to increasingly complex emergencies."
Former Youth Intern Luke Turnbull, now a member of the NSW SES Shellharbour City Unit, said the program helped him bridge the gap between school and the workforce.
"I've gained a lot of skills which I attribute to the SES. It's been a helpful transition from full time school to an adult workforce environment," Mr Turnbull said.
"There's a whole lot to gain and not a lot to lose. I really enjoy coordinating with a team and have already assisted with storm response, sandbagging and roof damage after hailstorms."
Opportunities to volunteer with the NSW SES range from frontline operations and rescue to logistics, community engagement and vital behind the scenes support.
Commissioner Wassing said there is a place for everyone at the NSW SES.
"You don't need experience to join, just a willingness to learn and a commitment to helping your community. Whether you're interested in hands on emergency response, or supporting teams in other ways, there's a place for you at the NSW SES," he added.
"We'd love to see the whole state turn orange. It's a small gesture with a big message: our volunteers are valued, respected and appreciated."
