The pair replace Matt Howarth, who led the Roos to this year’s elimination final in his first season at the helm.

Brendan Lane will be an assistant coach.

Carey is the nephew of former North Melbourne great Wayne, and kicked 52 goals from 13 matches after crossing from North Wagga this season.

President Mont Waters said the duo would be ideal replacements after showing plenty of leadership qualities this season.

Waters has been replaced by Josh Molkentin as president after 15 years and will be vice-president next year.

“Dean has played at Tumbarumba for the past three years while Ben provided a strong target up forward in his first year,” Waters said.

“Both the boys showed a lot of leadership this year, especially when we were ravaged by injuries during the season.

“We need to recruit to fill a few holes that we had this year to get back on track.

“After winning back-to-back flags we lost six premiership players which was always going to be a challenge to cover – but the early signs are promising.”

Key forward Matt Molkentin has joined Farrer league club Marrar in a blow to the Roos’ chances of returning as a flag threat.

After a hectic off-season, the appointment of Carey and Spencer is the final piece in the Upper Murray league coaching jigsaw puzzle which saw four of the six clubs appoint new coaches.

Jack Neil (Federal) will launch his coaching career.

Aaron Lezius (Cudgewa) and Evan Nicholas (Corryong) are back for a second stint after coaching the Blues and Demons previously.