After three years at the helm, Porter yesterday said the time was right for change and backed Magpie officials

to explore all options in a bid to re-establish itself as a force.

“Honestly, I think it’s time for a different voice at the club,” Porter said.

“We have gone from Henners (Jon Henry) to Lappo (Jason Lappin) to myself and I think it would be a good thing for the club to have a look to see what’s out there.

“It’s a good job to step into with the kids we have blooded this year.

“Hopefully we can do some damage in the run home.”

Porter, 28, plans to stay at Wangaratta as a player next season.

The courageous defender took the club to sixth and fifth in his first two years in charge, but has been on a roller-coaster ride this season with the Magpies never really

recovering from blowing a

nine-goal half-time lead against Albury in round 1 at the Norm Minns Oval.

Porter, who captained Wangaratta’s 2007 and 2008 premiership teams, said he believed the future was bright with the club blooding six members of last year’s third-grade premiership team.

“I have enjoyed it,” he said.

“It’s been a good experience and I think it has taught me a lot especially with my teaching career.

“It’s always been a year to year thing with me and this is my third so I think it’s time for a change.

“I have a young family as well so it will be good just to concentrate on playing next year.”