[Fork Handles]

From the heart of Australia's Red Centre, would-be Warlpiri tribal elder Liam Jurrah has been given the job to spark Melbourne's flailing attack.

The Demons' latest excitement machine, Jurrah has been pitchforked into Melbourne's forward line for an intriguing AFL debut against Essendon at Etihad Stadium on Friday night.

It's a far cry from the desert region of Yuendumu, 300km north-west of Alice Springs, from where the shy 20-year-old hails.

English is only Jurrah's third language and coach Dean Bailey said on Thursday he had to be given permission from the Warlpiri people before nominating for the pre-season draft, where he was selected by the Demons with pick No.1.

The lanky forward played four VFL games for Collingwood last year before returning home due to the illness of a close friend, but is determined to achieve his AFL dream.

'He is a training tribal elder,' said Bailey.

'There is pressure on Liam to perform. He's representing a very proud group of people and indigenous people in the middle of Australia.