Tannang, a former umpire in the now defunct Nauru league, was invited along to an umpire training session and was an instant hit, finding himself appointed for Horsham and Nhill's under-17 clash in round five.

"I just got asked along to attend training with Wimmera Umpires Association, because I showed an interest and offered my services," Tannang said.

"I did the training with them and they appointed me for Horsham and Nhill under-17s."

Tannang said it was an eye-opening experience.

"It was very, very fast," he said.

"The two teams were very good, and I really enjoyed myself.

"The kids are great and they play hard, tough football, and we got the boos which is normal, but it was an absolute honour to umpire in Australia."

Tannang is in Australia with a squad of 17 Nauruan footballers who are living and playing football in the Wimmera until September when they will contest the AFL's International Cup.

He said Aussie rules was the number one sport on the island, and although there were no longer any official leagues after turmoil in the 2006 season when violence and brawls marred the finals series, islanders still watched AFL games on television every week.

Tannang said the trip had so far been a success.

"The whole project for the boys to play football in country Victoria is a real eye-opener for them, they have really enjoyed it," he said.

"I am really enjoying it now too, now that I am involved in the footy again, otherwise I would just be stuck in the house while the guys play."

Tannang said he would continue to train with Wimmera Umpires Association and would fill roles if needed.