It meant he could catch up with former teammate and now Albury Thunder coach Adrian Purtell.

Burgess played alongside the Border export at English Super League side Bradford Bulls in 2012 - the first of Purtell's five seasons at the club, before joining brothers Luke, Sam and George at South Sydney the following year.

"I always knew he was from Albury and he's living back here now and he's got his business here," Burgess said.

"It's good to come down and see him and I'll probably go get some sushi later."

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Burgess and former Rabbitohs star Nathan Merritt were at Albury High School on Friday as part of the Souths Cares program, which aims to support disadvantaged youth and their families.

"I'm not playing, but I flew down with the boys and I think everyone is excited to get back playing and also come to a new place," Burgess added.