Tim Lane

Tim Lane at Birdrock Bar and Grill

FORMER WALLABIES PLAYER AND INTERNATIONAL RUGBY UNION COACH.

Hi Tim, how long have you been in the Port Macquarie area, and what are you doing with yourself these days?
I’ve been living in Port Macquarie for nine years now. I own and operate the management rights at Ki-ea Apartments, looking after holiday rentals. Until recently, I was also managing Beachcomber Resort, which kept me busy for the past five years.

What drew you to the area originally?
After 14 years of coaching rugby overseas, I was ready for a new chapter and looking to invest in a business. Port had a great feel about it with a beautiful location, relaxed vibe and Ki-ea Apartments really appealed to me. I saw its potential and what it could offer to holidaymakers.

When you’re not working, how do you spend your spare time here on the Mid North Coast?
I play golf twice a week at Port Macquarie Golf Club, which is a fantastic country course. I also enjoy dining out with friends a couple of times a week. We’re really spoiled for choice with the amazing restaurants and bars around town.

Are you still involved in rugby union?
When I first moved here, I helped out with some of the local clubs and was involved with the Mid North Coast representative side during the Country Championships held in Port a few years back. I haven’t been hands-on in recent years, but I still like to watch the occasional game with mates.

What are your thoughts on the current Wallabies squad?
The Wallabies have been inconsistent over the last few years, and the upcoming three test series against the British & Irish Lions will be a huge challenge.
The Lions will come in well prepared with six or seven matches under their belt against our Super Rugby teams, whereas we’ve only had one warm up match – against Fiji, which we were lucky to win. We’ve struggled to find a consistent, game controlling number 10 and have been chopping and changing at halfback too. That lack of continuity hasn’t helped. Hopefully, our forward pack can match the Lions physically, and our outside backs, who are strong in both attack and defence, can really step up. It should be a great series.

Thanks Tim.