Sails of Sydney Opera House glow orange in recognition of NSW SES volunteers  

The sails of the Sydney Opera House glowed orange last night in recognition of NSW SES volunteers who are among more than 4.9 million volunteers across NSW being celebrated during this week’s National Volunteer Week.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said lighting up the Opera House was 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.

Premier Perrottet noted “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. 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.”

NSW 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 advising “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.

Minister for Families and Communities and Minister for Disability Services Natasha Maclaren-Jones added “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.”

Minister for the Arts Ben Franklin advised that lighting up of the Opera House not only shows an appreciation for SES volunteers, but also shines a light on their hard work and dedication.

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.