After nearly a year out of the AFL system, this season’s edition of Dreamtime at the ‘G represents some unique emotions for Essendon star Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti.

‘Walla’, who announced his initial retirement from the game just ahead of this mirroring fixture last season, told 7NEWS this week of his excitement at returning to the MCG for the annual Dreamtime clash on Saturday.

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Rd 10 | Walla runs down Dusty

Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti executes a brilliant run down tackle on Dustin Martin.

“I remember last year walking off, that was my last game in a way, but [I’m] coming back now and having the fans watch me play and enjoy having me back,” McDonald-Tipungwuti said.

McDonald-Tipungwuti officially signalled his intent to return to the Bombers back in November 2022, and has played four games to date this season.

2023 Dreamtime guernsey launch

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Dons fans will be excited by the prospect of the livewire forward continuing to slot into a new-look front six, which McDonald-Tipungwuti hopes can be a sight for the long-term.

“It’s been a while since I’ve played AFL football, but hopefully I can be consistent and play good footy,” McDonald-Tipungwuti said.

“[Hopefully] I can stay around for another two years.”