Orange is the new workwear colour for WOW Day

Bunbury residents are being encouraged to wear a splash of orange tomorrow (Wednesday 10 May) in an effort to show support for emergency service volunteers.

The annual WOW Day – Wear Orange Wednesday – is on again to recognise Western Australia’s State Emergency Service members.

Department of Fire and Emergency Services commissioner Wayne Gregson said wearing orange was a simple way to show support for volunteers.

“Across the State there are more than 2000 volunteers who give up their own time to respond to storms, cyclones, floods and search and rescue missions,” Mr Gregson said.

“They are integral to our emergency preparedness and response, including supporting our efforts during major bushfires.”

Within the last year WA’s dedicated SES volunteers have spent more than 17,500 hours responding to more than 570 incidents, according to DFES.

“They respond to incidents at all hours of the day and night, sometimes missing important family occasions in order to provide assistance,” Mr Gregson said.

“SES volunteers also commit to many hours of training, maintaining their skills and ensuring they are as prepared as possible for when an emergency occurs.

“I encourage everyone to wear something orange, hold a morning or afternoon tea or simply take a minute to show your appreciation for our SES volunteers.”

As part of National Volunteer Week, members from Bunbury SES, Bunbury Sea Rescue and Bunbury Bush Fire and Fire and Rescue brigades will be running a showcase at Bunbury City Library this week.

The Emergency Services Showcase runs until this Saturday with a guest speaker at 11am on each of the weekdays.