Troy originally learnt the ins and outs of the sport from local man Trevor Duggen, and he’s been playing ever since.

Many wins over the years at regional tournaments and town competitions contribute to Troy’s list of achievements, but none quite as compelling as a national victory.

A win at the local Wednesday night poker competition at the Young Services Club earned him a ticket to compete in Sydney’s Pro Open Tournament.

The tournament - run once a month - was held at Wollongong on the weekend of January 30-31.

Here Troy came up against nearly 800 competitors.

“I got a bit nervous, it’s a bit of a step up from regional tournaments,” he said.

While he had no success in Saturday’s round, Sunday was a different story.

Out of around 380 competitors from around the state, Troy managed to come out on top. 

And we aren’t just talking a pretty trophy and prize money - Troy won a $7000 trip to Las Vegas where he is to compete in the World Series of Poker (WSOP).

“[It was] exciting, the feeling of winning a big tournament...it’s the biggest tournament I’ve competed in,” Troy said.

The expectant father has decided against the opportunity, and instead plans to use the funds for their child.

While the trip to Vegas isn’t an option at the moment, Troy’s sights are set on the February tournament.