With several Murray league clubs including Tocumwal and Finley circling for his signature as coach, the Pigeons elevated O’Brien last week.

They are still in the market for another assistant.

Yarrawonga coach Craig Ednie said O’Brien was the perfect fit for the role after being an assistant coach with Goulburn Valley club Shepparton Bears several years ago.

“‘Jezza’ has a good knowledge of the opposition and will do most of his work between Sundays and Thursdays to allow him to concentrate on playing,” Ednie said.

“A few clubs have been on to him but he committed to us soon after the grand final and I think he’ll do a good job.”

Former assistant coach Leigh Ramsdale recently stepped down from an assistant’s position to take over as coach of Picola and District club Rennie.

Matt Grinter will coach the Pigeons’ reserve grade team.

Ednie will undergo shoulder surgery within the next week and is expected to have his arm in a sling for six to eight weeks.

Meanwhile, Barooga is hopeful of signing former Essendon and North Melbourne small man Shane Harvey.

Harvey, the brother of Brent, has been dominating for North Heidelberg in recent seasons after his AFL career netted him 14 senior matches.