Irwin has been selected in the Australian squad that will compete in Austria from November 7 to November 16.

It is the first time the burgeoning gymnast has been picked for a national team.

The under-18 competition is set to be a vital stepping stone for Irwin and the rest of the Australian team, as they look to continue their development in a quest for future positions on Olympic and Commonwealth Games teams.

Irwin’s selection comes off the back of an impressive year in Australia, where he claimed the under-15 All Around Level 9 Championship at national gymnastics titles in Melbourne in May.

WestVic Academy of Sport executive Rob Ward said he envisaged Irwin would continue his impressive rise up the gymnastic ranks.

“He’s a role model athlete for his dedication, drive and personability,” he said.

“We have no doubt this will be the first of many Australian teams Hudson is selected in, provided he keeps improving and stays injury-free”.

Irwin’s mother Leonie said it was a credit to her son, who knew what he wanted to do and worked hard to achieve it.

“We’re very proud and very excited,” she said.

“He’s moved down to Melbourne this year and his big dream has always been to wear the green and gold.

“To think he’s achieved that goal so early is remarkable.

“He’s always been a goal-setter and he works really hard to achieve them.

“His ultimate dream was to represent Australia.”

Irwin is the youngest member of the team set to travel to Austria, and his mother said it would be a great experience for him.

“It will give him a valuable experience for him that will hold him in good stead for hopefully representing the country in Commonwealth Games and even maybe Olympic games,” she said.