By Angus Kenelly

Beau Robinson’s rugby journey has taken him all around the world but after retiring from professional rugby at the end of 2017, he’s ended up exactly where it started.

Robinson has returned to Dubbo in Central West NSW and will coach Dubbo Roos’ first grade side in 2018.

“I’m really enjoying the weather and the lifestyle in Dubbo. It’s really good to be back”

Robinson’s side were beaten by defending premiers Forbes 31-7 in round one on Saturday, but the former Super Rugby champion is confident of his side’s chances this year, following the recruitment of former Randwick captain Mark Baldwin.

“I first came across Mark when we both played NRC for the NSW Country Eagles. I was really impressed with his work ethic and his eagerness to learn. He was always asking questions and wanting to improve as a player.”

Robinson says there is no specific leadership group at the club but has definitely noticed Baldwin’s qualities as a leader.

“He’s played at a higher level than most of the other blokes and is pretty determined to lead from the front. All the boys listen to him and he is good at passing on his knowledge.”

After earning a living from rugby for more than a decade, Robinson said he’s excited about the opportunity to give back to the game at a grassroots level.

“I’d love to see rugby everywhere in Australia be strong again, not just in Dubbo. Unfortunately rugby is not where it was,” he said.

“It is not my role to improve rugby in Australia, but I will do all I can for Dubbo.”

“This starts with the Dubbo Roos which is exciting and that’s why I am stoked with the opportunity we have here. It is great to watch what we’re building.”

Robinson said he’s thoroughly enjoyed his brief coaching experience so far but admitted he’s still getting used to his new role in the bush.

“For the past 10 years, I have been fortunate enough to train with blokes full time so you don’t have to worry about work commitments and things like that.

“I knew it was not going to be Super Rugby level, I’ve had to adapt my standards, expectations and drills accordingly but the quality is really good.

Despite their slow start to the season, the former flanker is confident Roos will be in the mix this season.

“We haven’t done a great deal of individual work this preseason we’ve mainly focused on putting attacking and defensive systems into place.”

Dubbo travel to Cowra to face an Eagles side also looking for their first win of the season on Saturday.

Central West 1st Grade Round 1: Forbes 31-7 Dubbo; Orange Emus 33-10 Orange City; Bathurst 47-7 Cowra.