In a new development in Cootamundra's Australia Day program, organisers this year decided to recognise people who had been nominated during the year, even though they didn't make it to the final cut of three award winners.
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This resulted in another ten presentations being made, of certificates of appreciation, to all nominees.
Master of ceremonies Paul Braybrooks told the gathering that it had been decided that in 2020, along with the usual awards, certificates would be presented to all members of the community who had been nominated.
"It's time to pay tribute to all those wonderful members of the community who deserve the honour of winning one of our annual awards," Mr Braybrook said, introducing them in the following order:
"Betti Punnett has worked as a volunteer with a number of clubs and societies and has given untiring commitment to the advancement of Cootamundra.
"Chris Williams has given 28 years active service in Can Assist Cootamundra.
"A representative of the Cootamundra Soup Kitchen who provide nourishing meals support and hope for all those in the community who need it most.
"Eleanor Armstrong, dedicated to Red Cross, Can Assist and the Cootamundra Show Society.
"Geoff Larsen, who has 20 years of volunteering service for Cootamundra Show Society with countless hours of volunteer work in Rotary and Uniting Church.
"Gloria Schultz, massive contribution to drought relief to oversee deliveries in excess of a quarter of a million dollars in goods to drought-impacted community members across the State.
"Janette Harris, coaching children in golf for over 17 years
"Lisa Hines, selfless efforts for rehoming dogs and dedication and commitment to animal welfare.
"Steven Cootes dedicated to volunteering across many organisations including rugby league and touch association for over 25 years, junior league for 20 years, and 30 years as Santa bringing happiness to many at the Nursing Home.
"Ted O'Connor, a dedicated volunteer across so many organisations and an author."
Mr Braybrooks urged the community to think in terms of an Australia Day award when pondering how to give recognition to a deserving person.
"Now is a good time to just remind you that the nominations are open the whole year round and all you have to do is either download or go into council and collect a nominaiton form for next year.
So if you get a great brainwave and thought now that would be a great person to nominate, don't leave it, get the form and nominate!"
