But they also moved more than 170 animals on January 3, including 49 cows, two bulls, 100 goats and 'Archie' the eagle.

The huge operation, done "calmly and effectively" is what stands out to general manager Terry Jose when he reflects on 2020 as part of National Corrections Day.

"This day acknowledges the variety of work we do within the correctional system to keep Victorians safe," he said.

"It also recognises the roles we play, working with our community partners to support successful reintegration of prisoners back into the community."

Prison officer Susan Corbett wasn't on duty when the centre was evacuated, but helped escort prisoners back from Dhurringile 13 days later.

"That's one of the best aspects to this role - no matter what we face, we come together as one team," she said.

"We're not visible to most of the community, so the day acknowledges our roles ... [it] recognises the people behind the scenes who work on the frontline."

Programs manager Sheryl Mitsch said it was an honour to work in the industry.

"Prior to 2020, I would never have imagined I'd be discussing with offenders the importance of understanding the impacts of a pandemic on the community outside of prison walls," she said.

"The pandemic has shown how important it is to ease any anxieties prisoners have experienced, concerned with the impact COVID-19 has had.

"When face-to-face visits were cancelled, we adapted pretty quickly to using Zoom conference calls for prisoners and their families."

Ms Corbett said it was difficult for the prisoners, not being able to work on community projects as usual.

"This centre has a major focus on rehabilitation and transition programs," she said.

"All corners of the community have been impacted by COVID-19, and the corrections system is no different."

The Beechworth Correctional Centre was commissioned in 2005, after the 144-year-old prison closed.

Approximately 104 staff work across the open-campus-style facility, consisting of 22 units, 14 self-catering units and 25 two-man portable accommodation units.

IN OTHER NEWS:

Friday marked the fourth annual National Corrections Day; it began with Corrective Services NSW in 2017 before it was adopted nationally.

"Corrections is a tough environment and our staff perform difficult work, so we appreciate their commitment to make a real difference," Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Peter Severin said.