The well-known local photographer and journalist was nominated for creating the Facebook Page Liverpool Plains #frontstepsproject 2020.

"The project was established to unite us at time when - due to the initial COVID-19 outbreak in 2020 - we felt the first frightening wave of isolation and uncertainty," she explained.

"I was compelled to volunteer my photographic and journalistic skills to those who wanted to participate in the project and share their stories."

Sally did so, to highlight and celebrate the diverse and magnificent people, natural environment and businesses of the Liverpool Plains community to counteract the feelings of isolation from one another, our families and our communities.

"All I asked of the participants, was that they 'paid it forward', through their skills or some other kindness to another person or family to continue to keep our spirits high and our communities connected," she continued.

Some 750 images and almost 15,000 words later in the 'Liverpool Plains #frontsteps2020' project and her other volunteering roles with local organisations including 'Farming for Kids' and the 'Quirindi Canter Fun Run and Bike Ride', Sally was awarded the 'Citizen of the Year' award.

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"The award is not mine, it is for all those who joined in the project, all those who cheered and celebrated as well as all those who connected amid the Covid chaos," she said.

"I wanted to take a moment to say thank you to all those who participated in sharing their story and to those that cheered one another on by commenting on the Facebook posts - can you believe we connected over 170,000 people across the nation and the globe."

Sally said the acknowledgement by her community was overwhelming and that her heart continues to swell when hearing of friends and family reconnecting with one another and the region through the page.

"I've also been overwhelmed to hear how people participating have 'paid it forward' to others, sharing their skills, time, expertise or donating to help others. The project is so much more that words and images, the project is an entire movement of joy, inclusivity and celebration."

"It is always a gift to see, capture and share the beauty, fragility, honesty, strength, humour, tenacity and above all else... the sense of community in our amazing region," said the photographer.

The Facebook page is still online and continues to connect, with more and more people jumping on to read the stories.

Sally continued that while her wedding and event photography business 'Sally Alden Photography' had been impacted by Covid protocols, her family portrait business continued to thrive.

"I'm getting more bookings and enquires for the next few years as confidence - due to the lifting of Covid restrictions - sees wedding and event industry increase, and my family portrait business continues to flourish as people enjoy the experience of having their joy captured by my me," she said.

"Today has been a wonderful day and I'm especially grateful to live in the region and community I do."

Sally was one of seven Liverpool Plains Shire locals who received awards at the Australia Day Ceremony held at the Royal Theatre in Quirindi on Tuesday.

Young Citizen of the Year - Faith Green

For competing and excelling in Hockey, Softball and Rugby in 2020 and representing Tamworth, the North West and Scone in each of these sports.

Marie Maunder Community Service Award - Madge Martin

For her contribution of knitted rugs for the homeless and needy for many years. At the ripe age of 94, Madge has donated her rugs to Quirindi Country Women's Association and Oz Harvest to distribute around the State where needed.

Local Legend - Melissa Stubbs

For her endless amounts of energy, warmth and positive nature and caring and giving contribution towards teaching each student from her music school program, International School of Music, Quirindi.

Emergency Services Community Award - John Maunder

For her endless amounts of energy, warmth and positive nature and caring and giving contribution towards teaching each student from her music school program, International School of Music, Quirindi.

Sports Person of the Year - Molly Elford

For competing on international, national, state and local levels in Netball, Touch Football, and Athletics throughout 2020 including a trip to England to play netball for Australia to coaching for local sporting clubs.

Junior Sports Person of the Year - Lucas Percy

For competing on international, national, state and local levels in Netball, Touch Football, and Athletics throughout 2020 including a trip to England to play netball for Australia to coaching for local sporting clubs.