By James Bovington
Bramley Buffaloes’ former captain Lochlan McGill is enjoying this time down under, having swopped west Leeds for Tumut in New South Wales.
“I was captain at Bramley. We had a few good seasons. We got some finals, won a league, then an opportunity came up to go to Australia through Jordan Anderson. Along with my friend, Castleford’s Toby Mallinson, I jumped at the chance,” explained McGill, who plays half back and hooker.
“It took a while to sort out visas and when I arrived, I did some sightseeing in Sydney. I’ve settled into the style of play and I’m grateful for this life opportunity which is helping me develop my rugby league career.”
Local tourist material describes Tumut as ‘a blossoming picturesque area near the Snowy Mountains whose 6,000 inhabitants enjoy an abundance of natural wonders’.
“It’s certainly got excellent weather,” says McGill. “And there’s lots of space – unlike at home the houses aren’t on top of each other.”
McGilll’s younger brother, 15-year-old Reuban, recently won his first boxing bout at the Bramley Villagers home show.
McGill saiid:”I was unhappy about missing his fight. I’ve seen the video and I’m proud of how well he handled himself. It’s great that my younger brother knows how to box and prove how tough he is. Just how every teen boy should be.”
As for McGill, plans are not definite. “I’ve a one-year visa and a one-year deal with the Tumut team The Blues. I’ll see how this season goes, and if I enjoy my rugby and my time in Australia, I’ll probably look to extend my stay.”
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