The Australian rower took this semester off from his university studies and is building up his bank balance, by loading trucks at the city's industrial estate.

He has just returned from competing in the World Rowing Championships in Poland and said it was good to be back on his old stomping ground.

"The bank balance is a bit empty from being overseas so I have had to find a job. Reality is setting in," Bertrand said.

"But its good to be back."

Bertrand represented Australia in the lightweight four at the championships.

His team finished 14th of 27 boats.

Betrand said the result was disappointing but the crew had potential.

"We are very young and if we stick together I think we will perform well.

"The championships was a great learning experience. I really enjoyed it."

Bertrand will return to his former club, Nestles, for a come-and-try day from 10am until 1pm this Sunday at the Dennington section of the Merri River.

He urged people to come along to try out the sport.

"Rowing's great. Wherever you go there is a rowing club and it is a great way to meet people.

"To me it has been a life-changing experience."

Bertrand's father, Tom, the president of the Nestles Rowing Club, said people of all abilities were urged to pick up an oar this Sunday.

He said the come-and-try day was normally held later in October "but we thought we'd bring it forward a month so if there was any natural talent out there they could compete if they wished this season".

The club plans a regatta for the South West Games at the end of November.