It is the second consecutive year he has made the squad.

Taylor said he was very proud to be selected in the team to travel to Queensland.

“I am looking forward to representing the Eagles and the city of Ararat for the second year,” he said.

“I have noticed some improvement in my goal kicking and fitness but I am also looking forward to getting more experience and playing against some different players I would not normally play against.”

A busy schedule of events accompanies the games for the team with Taylor excited to attend an interstate football match.

“I am looking forward to the warmer weather and getting up there,” he said.

“We are going to the Tigers and Suns footy game at Metricon Stadium which is something I am really looking forward to as well.”

Wimmera Regional Sports Assembly project coordinator Nick Baird said the team is confident of a strong performance.

“Last year we finished third and Vic Metro won it, so we are hoping to go a step further and get a win,” he said.

“We are hoping for a win but obviously the Metro area is quite strong, so it will be tough.”

Baird said he has seen a big increase in participation off the back of the Grampians Giants joining the all-abilities football competition.

“Just from the Giants, in the first year they had about 16 players and now they have grown to around 25 players which is great to see,” he said.

“It is a good way to have an outlet and its good to see them all play together and have some fun.

“And even with the championships, they have grown as well with all states represented during the championship carnival.”

Taylor plays for the Giants along with the Ararat Eagles but will miss the Eagles’ round 14 game.