A FORMER Australian rugby player will lead the Bowral Blacks in 2016.

Gene Fairbanks has been announced as the club's head coach for the upcoming Illawarra Rugby Competition season.

It is Fairbanks' first coaching role, but the Bowral resident boasts an impressive playing resume.

Fairbanks played rugby union in Australia and Japan for more than 20 years.

The outside back represented the Queensland Reds, ACT Brumbies and the Western Force in the Super Rugby Competition.

He also had stints at Japanese clubs Honda and Kintetsu before he retired from the sport.

During his career, Fairbanks' represented the Australian Rugby Sevens team and toured with the Australian Wallabies and Australia A squads.

Fairbanks moved to the Highlands last year and started assisting the Blacks' coaching staff at training.

He has now taken over as head coach for the Bowral club in 2016.

Fairbanks said he looked forward to taking on more responsibility at the Blacks.

"I played professionally for many years and always thought that I'd like to coach," he said.

"We are back at training and have good numbers and players keen for the season.

"I aim to make it as fun as I can at the moment and create a good learning environment."

Fairbanks will be supported by first grade manager Tim Eccleston and forwards coach Dan Collins.

Pete Burt has been announced as the club's second grade head coach and he is also director of rugby.

Burt's assistant coaches will be Ben Hindmarsh and Nick Wansey while Craig Clothier is second grade manager.

The Bowral Blacks will return to the field for a pre-season trial game against Randwick on February 20 at Eridge Park.

Second grade will play at noon and the first grade clash will be held at 1.15pm.

February 20 will also mark the club's registration day at Eridge Park from 1-2.30pm.

For more information, email admin@bowralrugby.com.au