Mark Robb was inspired by the Tiger’s second preliminary final win on Saturday, giving them their first appearance in grand final since 1982.

On Monday, Mark headed out to the ‘Stump Man’ just outside Ararat on the Pyrenees Highway. 

The stump, which resembles a person with their arms in the air, now sports a painted Richmond guernsey and a miniature Grand Final trophy with yellow and black ribbons in its arms. 

“I must have driven past this stump thousands of times as I work in St Arnaud and Avoca,” he said.

“I had been waiting to paint it in Ararat team colours but we didn’t make it to the final but the Tigers were able to come through.”

Mark added a number 12 to the stump in honour of David Astbury.

“David did come from Tatyoon but we can claim him as he played junior footy in Ararat,” Mark said. 

Mark’s daughter Mia helped decorate the stump.

“I’m excited for the grand final,” she said.

“I’ve been a Tiger supporter since I was born. My dad didn’t give me much choice.”

Ararat student Paddy gathered with a number of young Tigers fans at the Stump on Wednesday morning and had a message for David Astbury.

“Good luck, Dave. It’s obviously a big day,” he said.

“We’re all behind you here in Ararat.”