"I'm really enjoying the experience and learning under Jobe,"Heppell said at Tullamarine on Tuesday prior to training.
"The experience of standing in as captain last year I think was fantastic for my development and having the badge of vice-captain is very exciting.
"A bit of time off has done him[Watson] the world of good,he's come back in brilliant spirits and training really well.
"He's driving the group as hard as ever and he's been fantastic."