Schneider, who is ineligible to compete in this weekend’s NSW Country Championships following a change in the rules regarding his ties with Myrtleford, is expected to be prominent along with defending champion Travis Sharpe, Xavier Palamarczuk, Kelvin Peart, Vaughan Saunders, Josh Hayes and Anthony Whitehead.

Xavier Palamarczuk is a five-time winner of the title.

Schneider won at Bandiana in 1993 and is playing off scratch in a field described as the best in 20 years.

“It’s a great field,” club spokesman Syd Taylor said.

“I can’t remember better in my time.

“We couldn’t believe it when Nathan entered and there are a lot of really good chances.”

The action starts at 10.30am at the Bandiana Army Golf Club, on Donegan Road.