Thank a Hero Now

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Thank you for running in when others run out

Help us recognise the everyday Australian heroes who keep our communities safe. If a first responder has made a difference in your life, take a moment to say thanks — it only takes a minute, but the impact can last a lifetime. Together, let’s build a culture of appreciation and make saying thank you a habit.

Thank a Hero Now
thank you for running in when others run out •

We’re beginning right here in Sydney, NSW

Let’s shine a light on the people who protect us every day

NSW Police Force

NSW Ambulance

NSW Fire and Rescue

A platform to show gratitude to NSW’s
first responders

Have you ever been helped by a paramedic, police officer,
or firefighter? These everyday heroes dedicate their lives to keeping us safe, often without hearing the thanks they deserve.

Now, you can share your gratitude and let them know how much their service means to you. A simple “thank you” can boost their wellbeing, strengthen our community, and inspire others to appreciate their sacrifices.

Thank a Hero Now

Meet some of those in the community who said thank you!

“We are beyond grateful to the NSW Fire and Rescue team, especially Captain Joe Thompson, for your quick response during our recent emergency. Your bravery and dedication have made a world of difference to our family, and we can’t thank you enough”
Tom B. 
Tom B. 03/07/2025
“Such a fun and rewarding team building morning. The team at Our Big Kitchen are doing such a good work. So happy to be able to contribute in a small way by making some meals.”
Faisal.S24/07/2025
“Thank you OBK for all that your amazing team accomplishes. A worthwhile team building experience or a great way to get a group of friends together. Give the gift of love through food to our fellow brothers and sisters in need.”
Margz.L26/07/2025
“My daughter and I had a great time working together. The guidance was structured and we loved seeing the food we helped make.”
Jane05/08/2025
“It’s been an absolute pleasure working at OBK. Truely a happy place where every effort feels meaningful, knowing it helps feed someone in need. A big thanks for the opportunity and support throughout. I hope to return soon and continue being part of this wonderful mission.”
John.D09/08/2025
“It was a huge success! The team really enjoyed it so much and all our competitiveness came out. But especially I think they really felt that it was such an amazing charity to support and hope that the food they made brought a little sustenance and a bit of joy to the people it went to.”
Shamani.S14/08/2025
“The whole team at OBK not only have huge hearts for the greater community and those in need but also for the people that walk in the doors to volunteer and help. We had the BEST time cooking and getting to know the team at OBK...will definitely be back.”
Gemma.G14/08/2025
“Volunteering here with my company was one of the best team-building experiences I’ve ever had. The atmosphere was warm, organised, and full of purpose. Knowing that our efforts directly helped feed those in need made the day truely meaningful.”
Dafna.G19/08/2025
“We had a great team event at OBK which was such a rewarding experience. Thank you to the team for hosting us and I highly recommend OBK for a team building event to bring your team together.”
Matt.P23/08/2025
“Thank you for an incredible birthday party this morning. Every kid loved it and we had so much fun and positive feedback. The party was so entertaining from beginning to end and the cake was so yummy. We hope to be back again!”
Jess26/09/2025

Why say thank you?

Gratitude Strengthens Communities

Saying thanks builds connection between first responders and the people they serve. It improves mental wellbeing for both the thanker and the thanked. Studies show gratitude increases resilience, motivation, and happiness.

OBK Supports First Responders

We work closely with NSW Ambulance, NSW Police, and NSW Fire & Rescue, providing meals and team-building activities. This platform is another way we give back to those who give so much.

First Responders Deserve Recognition

They risk their lives daily to protect ours. They often miss family moments to keep us safe. A small act of gratitude can make a big difference in their day.

How it works?

Share Your Story

Fill out a quick form. Upload a message, drawing, 
or video. Choose to keep it private or share publicly.

We Deliver Your Thanks

We locate the first responder(s) involved. Your message is personally delivered.

Brighten a Hero’s Day

Your words remind them their work matters. 
A culture of gratitude makes our community stronger.

Say thank you today!

Just 1 minute of your time = A lifetime of appreciation.

Name
Email
Date and time of incident (approximate)
Location of incident
Please include suburb and any landmarks, if known
What happened?
Briefly describe the situation and how the officer/s helped you
Help us find the right person
Any details that might help us identify the team or responder involved (vehicle number, organisation name, etc)
Your message of thanks
This message stays within the service and kept private
Your PUBLIC message of thanks
It takes many different NSW Ambulance staff members to mount a response to a call for help from the community. Please consider including a note of thanks for our emergency medical call takers, dispatchers, and secondary triage clinicians.
Upload an image, video or drawing
Add a photo, card, video message, or artwork if you'd like

Say Thank You!

thank you for running in when others run out •

*The Thank You initiative is run by Our Big Kitchen (OBK), a community kitchen in Bondi that inspires individuals to prepare and distribute more than 250,000 meals for thousands of people in Sydney.

Contact

(02) 8084 2729

36 Flood Street Bondi NSW 2026 Sydney, Australia

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