Jeff left the police force in 2005 after 20 years of service, two of which were spent in Gresford.

“My wife Sammy and I moved to Port Macquarie for five years before a short stint near her family in Queensland last year,” Jeff said.

“But we missed the hills of home and were contemplating a move back here when this position was advertised.

“Eleven of my 20 years in the police force were spent in the Hunter Valley and I just love it here.

“We have just found a rental property here in Dungog we can move into very soon and that will give us time to look around and find something more permanent.

“Sammy is a special needs teachers aid so she will be looking for work around the area.”

Jeff was the Westport Club bowls organiser for 18 months prior his move to Queensland.

“I am planning to expand bowls tournaments here at the club which in turn will bring people to the club,” Jeff said.

“(Club president Spencer Shelton) and I are talking about having more functions which hopefully will bring more members and people to the club.

“Attracting more bowlers to the club is a high priority as I am a keen bowler and try to get on the green as much as possible.

“I am also a level 1 coach and umpire and am hoping to get into the number 2 pennants team.”

Jeff said plans are afoot for refurbishment of the club and he will be applying for grants to assist financially.

“High on the list is a disabled ramp at the front of the club and the toilets to be disabled-friendly.”