Today, a lifelong supporter at Kanandah was still digesting his lunch when Bunnies’ icon Greg Inglis walked through the door.

Inglis took some time to chat with Tom and his wife heather – who is also a Souths fan – before telling The Mudgee Guardian what experiences like that mean to him.

“It’s fascinating when you come to places like these and hospitals to see the joy that us athletes can bring,” Inglis said.

“It was good to come in here and put a smile on his face.”

Deasy broke out the Souths merchandise to be signed by Inglis, but was already wearing his Rabbitohs hat, polo and socks.

“In his room he had some grand final pictures,” he said.

“He’s been a massive supporter for a number of years now and it’s great to see. We’re very lucky as a club to have the supporters we do.”

It’s been over 20 years since the Queensland legend visited Mudgee as he was last at the Mid-Western region to play in an under 11s touch competition.

Inglis wasn’t listed on the official team sheet heading into Saturday’s clash with the Dragons but he’s leaving the door open for a potential appearance.

“I’m still pushing for a spot,” he said.

“We obviously brought myself and Angus [Crichton] along but we’ll wait and see until after warm up.

“I would like to get a few minutes under my belt but if it doesn’t happen it doesn’t.”

Regardless of GI’s playing status, South Sydney has plenty of firepower in the backline as Dane Gagai is set to make his club debut.