As the Kangaroos prepare for their most important encounter of the Farrer League season – a sudden-death final against rivals Northern Jets at Maher Oval today – Parmenter realises his moment in the spotlight in another sporting arena is fast approaching.

Before joining the Kangaroos almost two months ago, Parmenter had forged a reputation as one of Australia’s brightest handball prospects.

The 26-year-old, who has already represented his country on 50 occasions, is again on the verge of earning national selection.

He will travel to Sydney in late September for a series of gruelling training camps, where he hopes to cement his spot in the Australian team to compete at the 2009 Handball World Championships in Croatia.

“You never like to say you’re a walk-up start but I’m definitely hopeful and confident of making the national team,” Parmenter said yesterday.

“Obviously it’s tough to do the same training load over here in Australia as some of the guys who are based overseas.

“But you just do as best you can to maintain a decent level and hopefully still make the cut.”

Overseas, Parmenter is a recognisable handball star after making a significant impact during a two-year stint in Denmark, where the sport is rated alongside soccer.

Today, with Temora’s premiership aspirations squarely on the line, he will play a crucial role in the team’s forward-line structure.

“It’s going to be a huge challenge for both teams,” he said. “It’s always exciting to play finals footy, especially an elimination final where you are fighting for your survival.

“It’s always good to be playing at this time of year, but even more so when coming up against your biggest rivals in a do-or-die match.”

Parmenter, who grew up in Wagga before relocating to the Gold Coast as a teenager, arrived at the Kangaroos by pure chance.

His parents, Brian and Jo, recently purchased the Beckom Hotel and after returning from Europe midway through the year, he decided he wanted to be closer to his family.

Temora was quick to approach Parmenter – a lively crumbing forward who can play tall – about committing for the rest of the season.

Despite playing only six games, he has emerged a quality addition.

Parmenter has produced several eye-catching performances, including a four-goal haul against the Jets the last time the two teams met in round 14.

The Kangaroos will be hoping he repeats the dose in the first semi-final at Maher Oval this afternoon.