Although it was probably the strangest build-up to an individual 300-game milestone in AFL/VFL history, the end result was perfect for veteran Richmond star key forward Jack Riewoldt.

The triple Tiger premiership hero had to endure a hasty exit out of Victoria and to the Gold Coast on Thursday night for the Round 18 clash with Brisbane.

Then, on Friday evening, the team’s bus was significantly delayed enroute to Metricon Stadium, forcing the game to be pushed back 15 minutes.

But despite such a departure from the normal preparation for a match, Riewoldt rose to the occasion in superb style, producing a dynamic six goal-display that was the catalyst for Richmond’s rousing 20-point win.

“I had about three hours to get ready to come up here,” Riewoldt told Channel Seven in a post-match interview.

“The Club said make sure you get something to eat before you get on the plane, so I’m not going to lie, I ducked into the Macca’s (McDonald’s) at the airport to get something to eat. I had a chicken wrap from there, and then last night, about 1am, I was eating meatballs watching the Tour de France.

“So, not the perfect preparation — I haven’t had a lot of sleep . . .

“Obviously, it’s been a whirlwind last 24 hours, it’s been a whirlwind last five days to be honest, ever since the Collingwood game (in Round 17) finished.

“Brisbane are a great side, so to have the quick turnaround to come up here and play in Queensland is an unbelievable achievement and one that we’re really proud of.

“I’ve had the most amazing week. Just want to thank everyone that sent me a message. Most importantly, I just want to thank my teammates for doing a little bit of something for me tonight. I really appreciate it. It’s a big game for our season.

“So lucky to have some family here. My two brothers are up here, so is my uncle . . . I’ve got my Richmond family right around me. Got my family watching at home – Carly, the two girls, my parents. I know they’re all watching. They’re probably screaming in our lounge-room at the moment.

“So, hello everyone. Thank you, Tiger Army. As I said, I’ve had the best week, the best day. Couldn’t have written the script any better.”