Jackson, a hard-working back-rower from the Canterbury Bulldogs, is making his second appearance as a Country representative this weekend and said he was  looking forward to playing at Dubbo again.

“I played a bit of footy here, I was mainly in Mudgee and Gulgong but I’ve got fond memories of playing at Apex Park as it was known then, so I’m pretty keen to get out there and play,” he said.

Jackson was in the midst of signing autographs during the meet-and-greet with the Dubbo community on Thursday when he spoke to the Daily Liberal, while fellow central west junior Jack Wighton, originally from Orange, was one of the most popular Country players.

Jackson said events like the meet-and-greet were great for the public as they didn’t normally get the chance to mix with the stars, while it was also a good team bonding session for the Country boys.

“I think it’s great to bring games where people don’t get to see a heap of footy, you can just see everyone is excited and there’s a good buzz,” Jackson said.

“They appreciate it and I think they’ll get a good crowd on Sunday, so it’s great.”