A stint in the club's academy program after impressing Brumbies recruiters while at school in Queensland seemingly had the former Gungahlin Eagle on the cusp of a Super Rugby debut.

But before long he was boarding a flight to Perth for a new beginning with the Western Force, who by then were lost to the premier domestic competition.

Fines was a revelation in successful Asia and Pacific Showcase tournaments and last year's National Rugby Championship title en route to the Nathan Sharpe Medal, the Force's highest individual accolade.

Then the Brumbies came calling again, and the scrumhalf had a new lease on his Super Rugby dream in the capital.

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Fines become Brumby No. 229 when he entered the fray in the 79^th minute of the club's Super Rugby AU opener against the Melbourne Rebels last weekend.

"It was a bit of a shock to be honest, it's something I have wanted to do for a long time. Just to get the win and having rugby back was a good moment for me," Fines said.

"It's a very different time, but no matter what, I'm just happy to get my opportunity and to get my first cap with the Brumbies.

"There were obviously a few nerves, but it's probably more excitement than nerves. I was excited to get my opportunity. It was a special moment and it's a big buzz.

"After having this feeling, I don't want it to stop. I'll just keep putting in at training and see what happens when the next team gets announced."

The Brumbies have a bye in round two before their season resumes against the NSW Waratahs at Sydney Olympic Park on July 18.

Brumbies coach Dan McKellar has no shortage of options at scrumhalf with Joe Powell, Ryan Lonergan, and Australian schoolboy Lachlan Albert on the books.

Powell is off-contract at the end of this year and faces an uncertain future while White is poised to return to the Brumbies having re-signed with the club last year.

White's early exit from English club Exeter could open the door for an early comeback to create even more competition for spots - something Fines has thrived on this season.

"You talk about a family club, they've taken me under their wing as soon as I got here. The opportunity to get out there was something I was pretty comfortable in doing," Fines said.

"I can obviously thank Joey, he's a great halfback and he has taught me a lot over the past couple of months.

"Even though it's a competitive battle, there is a good friendship between all us nines, so it keeps us competing with each other.

"You always want that competitive environment, and at the end of the day it makes us better and it makes the team better. The boys will enjoy the week off and then get back to it in Tahs week."