The prospect of a few hundred AFL fans spread around Sydney Showground brings GWS Giants' Harry Himmelberg back to his days of country footy.
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The eerie echoes of a near-empty stadium are somewhat similar to those wintry weekends in Wagga Wagga, where few brave parents and townsfolk stood scarce around the field.
The Giants received the final tick of approval from the NSW government to accomodate up to 350 spectators at Sydney Showground for this Sunday's clash with North Melbourne.
It seems so bizarre that the last time Greater Western Sydney played in front of fans, there was a crowd of nearly 100,000 people at the AFL grand final.
But for players like Himmelberg who grew up playing in the country, it's just another weekend of footy.
"I think there'll be a few less drunk reserves players yelling over the fence on Sunday," Himmelberg chuckled.
"But it is kind of similar in that there isn't a loud crowd noise, in round one it was quite eerie to be honest.
"It's great some of our supporters will be able to come and see the hard work we've been doing in the break to stay fit and stuff."
Canberra-based fans could get a chance to watch the Giants' return this weekend, with the club planning to host a mix of members and corporate supporters across numerous function rooms.
The Giants are yet to provide details on how the selection process will work, but are likely to use it as an opportunity to repay some of their most loyal members.
The approval was based on the NSW government's easing of restrictions regarding pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes that came into effect on June 1.
Giants chief executive David Matthews said the approval was a "positive first step" in allowing fans back through the gates.
Greater Western Sydney will host three matches at Sydney Showground in the first block of the AFL's reboot, with the next lot of fixtures to be released later this month.
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Club officials have opened discussions with the ACT government about the prospect of playing at Manuka Oval this season, but the move would depend on whether crowds can attend.
Himmelberg, who called the capital home during his NEAFL stint with Eastlake, is hopeful they'll be able to bring content to Canberra later in the season.
"With the way things are progressing, I'm fairly confident we'll be able to get games in Canberra," Himmelberg said.
"We love to play there and the atmosphere is awesome. We have such a massive fan base in Canberra, so to be able to play in front of them and make them feel like it's their club as well is awesome.
"Then of course, it's one of the best decks in the league. It's good to be able to play on such a well maintained ground, they get it perfect for us every time."
