The coronavirus pandemic shook up our way of life more than ever before, and plunged many families into turmoil. Uncertainty and downward spirals became the norm of the day, with unemployment spiking steeply and the economy ground to a standstill.

But despite all of this there were some people who hitched up their boots and kept on working - quietly and unassumingly in most communities, but enacting profound change. Now is the time to celebrate those people, who will be recognised for this year's Australian of the Year as nominees.

ACM, the publisher of this masthead, is a partner in the awards, and The Examiner is proud to be able to shout from the rooftops and celebrate the achievements of these individuals and families.

Tasmania is well represented in the nominations, with our own Dr George Razay sitting alongside people like the Riewoldt's, who were responsible for establishing a foundation in the memory of their daughter.

Dr Razay is a well-known Launceston physician, who is changing the way the world's doctors diagnose dementia.

His research, published in academic medical journals, has helped to revolutionise the way health professionals understand a debilitating disease like dementia.

While Dr Razay's work is undeniable, and his contribution to Tasmania and Australia is remarkable, one of the best things about the Australian of the Year awards is how they recognise grassroots heroes - like Northern Tasmanian Derek Benson.

Mr Benson is a finalist in the Senior Australian of the Year and is being recognised for his volunteering commitment.

That commitment, to helping his community, even in retirement, is something that should be celebrated loudly, because it has such a tangible impact on those he works with and those he helps.

Congratulations to all of our Tasmanian nominees - we are proud of your achievements and want to celebrate.

Because we can all do with a bit of brightness in our lives right now. The world would be a much duller place without all of you.