Alana Thomas, former Australian rugby union player and Australian Wallaroo development coach, kicked off her rugby union carer in Forbes with the Platypi and was twice named our Sportsperson of the Year.

A little more than 10 years later she's returning as guest speaker, looking forward to sharing her experiences representing NSW and Australia as well as her current role as coach.

The volunteers of the Forbes Sportsperson of the Year Association are delighted with the quality of the nominations they have received for this year's awards.

Honours announced on the night include the Junior and Senior Sportsperson, All Rounder, Coach/Trainer, Referee/Umpire/Official, Administrator, Team and of course the Forbes Sportsperson of the Year and Runner Up.

READ MORE: Tom Drane named our Sportperson of the Year

The overall winner of the Central West Credit Union Monthly Achievers Award will also be announced along with the President’s Award, Phillip Adams Encouragement Award, Merit Awards, School and Special Sports Awards and the Forbes Netball Association Terry Wade Award.

"The calibre of the nominations received for all the awards was of a very high standard making the job of the independent judging panel extremely difficult," secretary Anita Morrison said in a media release.

The Annual Presentation Dinner is on Saturday March 16 at the Forbes Sport & Recreation Club from 6.30pm. 

Tickets at Hello World Travel. Adults $35 and children (12 years & under) $25 which includes a two course meal. For catering, all tickets need to be purchased by 5pm Friday March 8.