Queensland prop Steve Price knows better than most that rugby league is not about fairytales.

He missed the Bulldogs' 2004 premiership win with injury and was ruled out of Australia's World Cup final last year with a calf strain.

But with Queensland seeking a record fourth straight series win Price could choose to retire from representative football on high.

Instead the 35-year-old has shelved any such idea and is planning to continue in 2010 and become the oldest player to pull on a Queensland or NSW jumper.

He will become the third-oldest on Wednesday night at Etihad Stadium, behind Allan Langer and Artie Beetson, and pass them if he plays again next year.

"I didn't know that but I think the thing is that I'm still enjoying it like I'm 21," said Price.

"I think that's one of the reasons why I had no idea about the age thing. Because you don't play to be one of those people, you just keep trying your best."

Price has recently signed for another season at the Warriors and is determined to keep making himself available for the Maroons and Kangaroos.

"I've always said while I'm playing in the NRL I'd like to be available for rep footy so if I'm playing well enough, that's great."

Price and his front-row partner Petero Civoniceva have been the mainstays of the Queensland side for several seasons.

Civoniceva is one of just five Queensland players - along with Johnathan Thurston, Cameron Smith, Nate Myles and Dallas Johnson - not to miss a single game during the Maroons last three series wins.

He says he feels "honoured" to be part of the winning Origin side.

"It's great to be a part of this group and I think a big reward of that has been being a part of the whole process of the camps and the games," he said.

"If we get the result it will be fantastic to be a part of something like that but that's a long way away.

"This game, the first one, is really important. Being in Melbourne no side has an advantage."

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