Windsor was one of the Whites best last year, taking out the first grade player’s player award as well as being named the club’s best back and highest point scorer.

But with the playmaker having since moved on to take up a playing opportunity in Ireland, Queanbeyan has been left with a massive hole to fill leading into its John I Dent Campaign which kicks off next month.

Fahey however, says he has been buoyed by the performances of several potential candidates to fill Windsor’s shoes during the club’s pre-season campaign.

The Whites are coming off the back of a strong performance at last weekend’s Cowra 10s that saw the side knocked out at the semi-finals stage of the main, Cup competition.

Queanbeyan were eliminated from the tournament after going down 14-12 to Sydney side the Woodstock Wallys 14-12.

The club’s second XI also fared well, claiming the tournament’s Plate final for the second successive year.

“Sammy leaving is obviously a loss but it enables other players to step up as well and that was evident [at Cowra] on Saturday,” Fahey said. “Brendon Spears played well and one of our new recruits [NSW Country representative] Sam McNeil looked very sharp.”

Queanbeyan also looks set to benefit from the return of premiership winning fullback Jamie Marmont who spent last season playing in Canada.

“Jamie’s return is a big plus as well, he’s just a naturally gifted footballer,” Fahey said.

The Whites will take on Central West in a trial match in Cowra this Saturday before trials against Gungahlin on March 15 and Tuggeranong on March 22.

Queanbeyan will get its John I Dent Cup campaign underway on April 12 against Royals.