AUSTRALIAN Test star Michael De Vere is hoping the events of Saturday, November 22, 2003 will prove a good omen as he prepares to embark on a new career with the Giants.

It was the day of the third Ashes Test between Great Britain and Australia at the McAlpine Stadium.

The 27-year-old goalkicking centre had already helped the Kangaroos build up a 2-0 series lead as his country retained the Ashes.

But his finest hour was to come at the stadium where he will be plying his trade for the next two years.

De Vere was on hand to score a late try as Australia claimed an 18-12 triumph.

It was a sweet moment for the Brisbane Broncos star, who is now hoping the try will be a sign of things to come.

"I immediately loved the McAlpine, and scoring a try in the third Test was a fantastic feeling," reflected De Vere, who will remain sidelined for six months following knee surgery, but will make a full recovery.

"I'm hoping it's a good omen and that the try will be the first of many in the next few years.

"The stadium is certainly a great arena and the playing surface is fantastic.

"It was something at the back of my mind when I decided I wanted to come and play in England.

"In a way it gave the Giants a bit of a head start, because I knew from day one that if I came to Huddersfield I would be joining a club that boasts fantastic facilities.

"But when I started talking to the club it soon became clear there was a lot more to the Giants than the McAlpine Stadium.

"It wasn't long before I realised I was dealing with the most professional of the clubs who were interested in me.

"The more I spoke with the club, the more I knew this was the place for me.

"OK, I know they are not yet one of the very top Super League clubs.

"But it's obvious they are putting things in place, both on and off the field, to break into that top bracket.

"For me to be a part of that process is really exciting.

"I wanted to come to England because it offered me a new and fresh challenge, and that's exactly what I'll get at the Giants. This is fantastic."

De Vere will arrive in England on January 3 with his wife Olivia and two daughters Rhiannon (2½) and Yasmin (1).

He admits that makes the move even more daunting, even though it is being made with his family's full backing.

"Olivia also sees this as an exciting move and a great experience," he added.

"Another reason for coming here now is that it won't affect my children's education.

"That was another very important thing to consider."