South Australia will turn orange this week as landmarks across the state light up in support of the volunteers who respond when communities need help most.
To mark Wear Orange Wednesday, the national day of recognition for State Emergency Service volunteers, several of the state’s most recognisable structures will glow orange on Wednesday 20 May 2026. Adelaide Oval, Parliament House and the Port Adelaide Lighthouse are among the landmarks taking part, creating a bright public tribute to the more than 1,800 South Australians who volunteer with the SES.
The annual day of recognition encourages Australians to wear orange, decorate their homes and workplaces, share messages of thanks, and acknowledge the people who give their time to help during floods, storms, heatwaves and other emergencies.
SES Acting Chief Officer Kristy Phelps said the dedication shown by SES volunteers was something all South Australians should be proud of.
“In 2026, our volunteers have already responded to almost 4,000 requests for assistance and provided thousands of hours of support and advice to communities impacted by floods, storms, and heatwaves,” Ms Phelps said.
“Being an SES volunteer often means time away from family and work, and we should never take their commitment, or their importance to our communities, for granted.”
“Wear Orange Wednesday is a great opportunity for people right across the state to show their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of SES volunteers.”
South Australians are being encouraged to get involved on Wednesday 20 May by wearing orange, baking or cooking something orange, decorating their home or workplace, thanking an SES volunteer in person, or posting a message of support on social media using #ThankYouSES.
With an SES presence in more than 70 local areas across South Australia, the volunteer service provides 24-hour emergency assistance and rescue across the state. Its work spans major weather events, storm damage, flood response, heatwave support, road crash rescue, searches and other emergency situations where community assistance is needed.
The SES has been supporting South Australian communities for more than 50 years, with its origins dating back to the early 1960s as the SA Civil Defence. Since then, thousands of South Australians have volunteered their time, skills and energy to help others in moments of crisis.
Ms Phelps said the SES is also encouraging more South Australians to consider volunteering, with a wide range of roles available.
“The SES is always looking for new volunteers, and there is no expectation to attend every call-out or training session,” said Ms Phelps.
“All volunteers receive nationally accredited training at no cost, and volunteering is a great way to learn new skills, make friends and give back to the community. Not every role involves getting on a truck — there are many ways people can support their local communities through the SES,” she said.
“Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to visit the SES website or contact our Volunteer Recruitment Team on 8130 0350.”
