THE community is being encouraged to show their wonder of the local VICSES unit this Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW).

The national day of thanks, held during National Volunteer Week, celebrates the contributions of over 5000 Victorian SES volunteers who dedicate their time, 24/7, to serving their communities.

In the 12 months from May 2024 to May 2025, VICSES Hume region volunteers have received more than 3400 requests for assistance (RFAs), reflecting the increasing demand for emergency services across Victoria.

In 2025 alone the region’s volunteers have responded to more than 1300 RFAs, with more than 370 RFAs managed by units in Wangaratta, Yarrawonga, Benalla, Rutherglen and Chiltern.

Wangaratta VICSES unit controller Jess Zuber encouraged the community to don a piece of orange in their everyday apparel on the day to show their appreciation to local volunteers.

VICSES acting chief officer operations, Alistair Drayton, echoed the sentiment.

"WOW Day is a moment to reflect on the exceptional efforts of our volunteers who respond in times of need, often during the worst days of people’s lives," he said.

"On behalf of the organisation and the communities we serve, thank you to each and every one of our volunteers for your commitment, courage, and community spirit.

“WOW Day gives us a chance to pause and say a heartfelt thank you."

This year's WOW Day coincides with VICSES’ 50th anniversary, marking five decades of volunteer service since 1975.

You can support WOW Day by wearing orange, posting thanks on social media with #ThankYouSES, holding orange-themed events, displaying posters, or, best of all, by joining the service themselves.