Townsend has only been playing rugby union for two years, and the potential representative season last year was disrupted due to COVID-19.

So she's pretty keen to get out there as part of a Blue Bulls women's side with a title to defend.

For Townsend herself, it's a near-miracle return to form after serious injury to the ligaments in her knee along with a broken femur just a couple of seasons ago.

It's taken a lot of hard work to get back into footy, let alone contact rugby union, so selection for central west is a real testament to her determination.

Central West are the defending champions, but it's a very different side to the one that claimed the championship - without conceding a point - in 2019.

Townsend is one of a number of new faces, the squad also boasts Paulini Lawanikula from the Platypi as well as Erica Stevenson and Cailin Westcott from Parkes.

There are also plenty of experienced players on the side, and Townsend says the team's training sessions in Cowra, Orange and Dubbo have been great.

"I think we have a group of girls who are just going to rip in and get the job done," Townsend said in the lead up.

"I think I am most excited to challenge myself, at a higher level."

The Blue Bullettes must win their first game on Saturday afternoon if they are to advance to the Tomson Cup decider on Sunday morning.

Due to the fact they are defending champions the side gets a free pass from the first round while Central Coast, Hunter, Central North and Mid North Coast do battle.

Skipper Melissa Waterford, one of eight players from Bathurst Bulldogs, has faith in her squad.

"The last time we played was the first time Central West had won outright which was really exciting and we've managed to retain a few of those girls, so it will be good to have that experience because there are a lot of new girls coming through into this year's team," she said.

The Blue Bullettes' opening game will be at 4.20pm Saturday.