Wear orange this Wednesday and support our local SES
Published on 18 May 2026
The Queensland SES is celebrating its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of service this week for Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day).
Communities across the country are set to be a shade of orange for WOW Day, shining a spotlight on the local heroes who roll up their sleeves in times of need.
Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group, Mayor Tony Williams, said it’s a chance to celebrate and thank the SES volunteers who support our community year‑round.
“Wear Orange Wednesday is a great chance for our community to stop and say thank you to our SES volunteers,” Mayor Williams said.
“They’re the ones out in the middle of the night, in tough conditions, helping keep our community safe.
“In the Rockhampton Region, we know all too well the challenges that come with severe weather and our SES volunteers are often the first to step up and lend a hand when people need it most.”
SES Local Controller, Jasper Humphries, said he’s proud to see the organisation recognising half a century of service to communities across the state.
“Celebrating 50 years of the Queensland SES is a proud moment for our organisation and our volunteers, past and present, who have worked tirelessly to support our communities through countless emergencies,” Mr Humphries said.
“Each year is different, but they are always busy and bring new experiences.
“This year is shaping up to be the same – with our local crews responding to more than 107 callouts over the past four months, and of course a busy start to the year with the flood prep and recovery in January.
“We’ve also seen members deployed across Queensland during severe weather events, and we’ve been supporting various community events, including RockyNats, Anzac Day and the Golden Mount Festival.”
Mr Humphries said WOW Day is a great time to find out more about volunteering.
“Rockhampton Regional SES is looking for committed volunteers who want to support their community when it matters most,” he said.
“If you’re ready to gain real‑world skills and help keep our community safe, we’d be proud to have you on our team. No experience needed - just commitment and a genuine desire to help.
“With SES groups in Rockhampton, Gracemere and Mount Morgan, there’s a group close to home for anyone keen to get involved.”
WOW DAY BBQ Breakfast event:
Wednesday, 20 May 2026 I 6.30am – 9.30am
Kershaw Gardens, Rockhampton