Australians are being encouraged today to wear orange to recognise the service of State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers, in an event known as Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day).

Iconic landmarks including Adelaide Oval, Parliament House, National Wine Centre, Michael Herbert Bridge at Glenelg North, Port Adelaide Lighthouse and Viterra silos in Port Lincoln will be lit up in orange on May 22 to mark the occasion.

Over the past year, SES volunteers from 67 Units across the state have responded to over 6,800 requests for help, rescuing people from mine shafts, road crashes and floods. More than 43,000 hours of training have been carried out to maintain and boost the agency’s capabilities, which extend to storm response, swift water rescue, vertical rescue, building disaster resilience, land search rescue and dog operations.

"Volunteers work tirelessly to support their communities year-round across the state, from the city to the remote outback. Today and every day, thank you to our volunteers in orange who are ready to respond to a wide range of emergencies and help South Australians in need," said South Australian Premier, Dan Cregan.

On WOW Day, people are invited to show their respect and gratitude to the SES by wearing something orange and sharing their photos on social media using the hashtag #ThankYouSES. Volunteers can be thanked in-person in Rundle Mall from midday, as part of an SES interactive display featuring a range of trucks and vehicles.

"Wear Orange Wednesday is an ideal opportunity for people to show their appreciation for our amazing volunteers. I’m incredibly thankful for all the hard work our dedicated volunteers do to ensure the community is prepared and protected before, during and after emergencies," added SA SES Chief Officer Chris Beattie.

Earlier this month, the State Government supported a dedicated Emergency Services Game at Adelaide Oval, providing 3,000 tickets to agencies, including the SES, along with promotion of career and volunteer opportunities available. Anyone interested in joining the SA SES can visit ses.sa.gov.au or call volunteer recruitment on 1300 364 587.