Chalmers, who has been coach of the Bandits since 2012, has joined Albury Council and will be in charge of the day-to-day operations of the sports stadium and athletics track, which is undergoing a $1.1 million facelift due for completion early next year.

His appointment is part of a change of responsibilities in the council’s leisure facilities area.

Team leader Michael Stanton will relocate from the sports stadium to the council’s offices to oversee other pending major upgrades of pools and Lavington Oval.

The council will soon appoint a consultant to carry out a feasibility study of pools in Albury with pressure already being applied to construct a major indoor pool.

A sports administration centre and grandstand upgrade are also on the drawing board at Lavington Oval.

Mr Chalmers, who also played 250-plus matches for the Bandits, has joined the council from a regional co-ordinator role with the Australian Sports Commission.

“I am thrilled to be joining Albury Council and to be managing a venue which has been my second home for the past 30 years,” he said.

“My first priorities will be on setting some direction for the year ahead along with building relationships with the staff, key stakeholders and user groups and ensuring we assist in the smooth running of the Australian Country Cup in January and other planned events.

“I am excited to be bringing my experience and passion for the leisure and recreation space to the team and hopefully building my career further in the organisation.”

Mr Chalmers will also be involved in the introduction of the upfront charge for junior basketballers and netballers at the stadium.

The pay-as-you-go ticket system was set to be replaced on July 1.