The Australian Red Cross will tonight light up 50 landmarks across Australia in celebration of 110 years of humanitarian work.

From sunset to sunrise, landmarks including the Government House in Sydney, Victoria Bridge, and the MCG, will light up red as a tribute to the people the Australian Red Cross has supported through crises and a thank you to everyone who has contributed to its work.

In the past year alone, the Australian Red Cross has mobilised 16,000 members and volunteers. The organisation has provided support to 324,000 people during and after disasters, trained 53,000 people in first aid, helped 19,700 through Migration Support Programs, and provided 215,000 hours of support to older or vulnerable people in the last 12 months.

CEO of Australian Red Cross, Andrew Colvin, said: “Since the outbreak of World War 1 in 1914, Australian Red Cross has played a pivotal role in supporting Australians. From major disasters such as Cyclone Tracy and Ash Wednesday, to critical community work such as delivering warm meals and helping refugees start a new life – Australian Red Cross is there for everyone, always.”

Colvin also acknowledged the significant contribution of volunteers and members, many of whom have been with the Australian Red Cross for over 60 years. “We couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers and members... They’re the backbone of our organisation and it’s only fitting that we acknowledge their immense contribution during our 110th celebration,” he said.

The Australian Red Cross is also celebrating the milestone with national, state, territory, and branch-based events and is encouraging the community to wear red on 13th of August in support of the tribute.