Dolphins' Kaufusi returns home for a Bundy rumble

Dolphins forward Felise Kaufusi returns to his old stomping ground in Bundaberg to play Canterbury. (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)

Bundaberg is famous for its rum and producing Dolphins hitman Felise Kaufusi, which is why the 31-year-old veteran forward can't wait to get back to the city of his youth and strut his stuff.

It will be a Bundy rumble with Canterbury on Sunday for Kaufusi when he plays at Salter Oval, the scene of so many of his favourite memories as a Bundaberg Brothers junior. 

"Bundaberg is where I grew up and played all my junior footy," Kaufusi said.

"I have got a lot of family there and it is home to me. To have a Dolphins NRL game at my home ground is pretty special. 

"I am thinking half of the crowd will be family or extended (family). I'm still getting hit up (for tickets) from some long lost cousins."

Kaufusi won two grand finals with Melbourne and has featured in some big games at Salter Oval too.

"I've played plenty, when I was running around with no shoes back in the day," he said.

"(Grand final) day starts at 7am and builds into the A-grade grand final at 3pm. I've played plenty of finals in club footy and at school so Salter Oval is special for myself."

Kaufusi said the Dolphins' finals destiny is in their own hands. They are on 22 competition points in 12th and must win at least five of their final six games to be any chance of making the top eight.

The veteran has missed seven games with suspension this season for high shots and has learnt his lessons. A regular in recent seasons for Queensland, he missed out on being part of the winning Maroons squad this year.

"I love the Origin arena. It was disappointing (to miss out) but I did it to myself," he said.

"I got suspended and it is so hard without playing footy to put your best foot forward. I only have myself to blame, but I'm so happy with how it all played out.

"I will control my nerves (on Sunday). I have been in trouble this year for being too aggressive, too hot-headed. I'll just be looking to do my job. I love playing aggressive, but obviously within the rules."

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