The hard-working backrower was part of the Platypi's run to last year’s memorable Blowes Clothing Cup triumph over Orange Emus at Endeavour Oval but, being a league boy at heart, always planned on returning to the 13-a-side code in 2018.

He’s now on the cusp of back-to-back grand finals.

McMillan has been tremendous on Forbes’ potent left edge, providing the muscle to complement the finesse of Farren Lamb, the skill of Ethan Gaffney and the sheer speed of Jarred Tyack.

Forbes travels to Dubbo on Sunday to take on Wellington in the Group 11 preliminary final at Apex Oval and McMillan says he’s loving being back in the black and white as the club guns for its second grand final appearance in three seasons.

“I’ve played a few years with the Platypi on and off, but I thought I’d come back again. I’m 31 this year so I’m getting a bit long in the tooth and thought I’d have another good run with the Magpies,” he said.

“It’s a great club, the Platypi. I really enjoyed it last year and enjoying this season too.

“For us playing every game and not having a week off has really helped over the last four weeks or so. We’re playing some pretty good footy and we’re heading into Sunday with a full head of steam.”

McMillan said the Magpies’ recent run of red-hot form stems from their defence, which has conceded just six tries in the last month.

For perspective, Sunday’s opponents, the Cowboys, have leaked 14 tries in the same period while minor premiers and the first team through to this year’s grand final, Dubbo CYMS, have conceded seven.

“We’re feeling confident, it’s been really solid,” McMillan said of the Magpies defence.

“Hayden (Bolam) came in and strengthened us up and once everyone else was back we’ve dominated sides with our defence.”

As one of the more well-rounded attacking units in Group 11, though, Wellington will thoroughly test Forbes’ defensive resolve.

“They’re an ad-lib team and quick on the edges. We’ve got to have faith on the inside man,” he added.

“Training has been great, though, we’re just fine tuning a few things. I think we’ve had a few of the teams ahead of us looking over their shoulder so hopefully we can do the job on Sunday.”

The Magpies under 18s await the winner of the Wellington and Dubbo CYMS preliminary final.