On 13 November 2020, a limited number of the community will be welcomed to the Wiradjuri Dreaming Centre to attend the presentation of the 2020 awards and celebrate with traditional performances, arts, craft and activities.

This year's theme; Always Was, Always Will Be will celebrate the rich history, amazing culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Forbes community.

"We are so fortunate to be able to still celebrate this amazing event this year," said Forbes Shire Council Mayor, Phyllis Miller OAM.

"COVID-19 has cancelled many events across the country but we feel we can manage this one safely here in Forbes.

"The event will go ahead, although strict restrictions will be in place to ensure everyone's safety and the numbers will be reduced to comply with health regulations.

"Forbes has not had a case reported since the beginning of the pandemic and I commend everyone for playing their part in keeping the virus out of our community."

Schools will hold their own NAIDOC events this year rather than attending the community gathering.

"We strongly believe NAIDOC should be celebrated by everyone and is important for our children to learn about our rich indigenous history and culture," Mayor Miller said.

"The Wiradjuri culture is the longest, continuous culture in the world, which is amazing.

"It is also important we award our outstanding citizens for all that they have achieved over the last year and encourage others to go above and beyond in the community.

"I really love to hear the incredible achievements of our award nominees and I encourage everyone to nominate someone who does fit the bill."

The Forbes NAIDOC Week 2020 Awards are now open for nominations, the awards recognise the achievements and outstanding contributions Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make to the Forbes community.

Following are the Award categories:

Indigenous Person of the Year (18 years and over)

Indigenous Youth of the Year (Under 18 years)

Indigenous Sports Person of the Year

Indigenous Creative Person of the Year

Indigenous Community Member of the Year (Volunteer)

Award nomination forms can be found on Councils website: www.forbes.nsw.gov.au.

Nominations close 5pm October 30.