Special 'WOW' to shine light on SES volunteers

Premier Dominic Perrottet said lighting up the Opera House is a way of showing the State’s gratitude to all SES volunteers who have worked tirelessly to help others during this year’s storm and flood events.

“The Sydney Opera House is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, so to see it illuminated orange will be a great moment of recognition for those who thoroughly deserve it,” Mr Perrottet said.

“Our SES volunteers have worked non-stop during the unprecedented flooding and this is a small way we can give back and say thank you for those efforts.”

Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience and Minister for Flood Recovery Steph Cooke said SES volunteers have had a tough period of severe weather and deserve this special recognition.

“SES volunteers give up their time to help their community, often at great risk to themselves. They showed remarkable courage and commitment during the flooding, and I am so proud of their efforts,” Ms Cooke said.

Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones said SES volunteers are among more than 4.9 million volunteers across NSW being celebrated during National Volunteer Week.

“The recent efforts of SES volunteers showed just how important volunteer spirit is to this great State and, as we celebrate National Volunteer Week, I want to thank each and every volunteer for the wonderful work they do for their community,” Mrs Maclaren-Jones said.

Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin said the Sydney Opera House will be lit at 6.30pm and will glow orange until midnight.

“The lighting up of the Opera House will not only show our appreciation for SES volunteers, but will also shine a light on their hard work and dedication,” Mr Franklin said.

SES Commissioner Carlene York welcomed the special recognition and urged communities across the State to get out and show support for their local SES members during National Volunteer Week.

“Our members from across NSW stepped up to help in the Northern Rivers during the flooding. Every single unit has been involved in helping our flood-affected communities and it’s fantastic we can make the annual WOW Day extra special for our more than 10,000 volunteers,” Commissioner York said.