Club president Joe Ashton described the signing of Grogan, 35, as a 'major coup.'

The Makos didn't field a side in this year's competition but Mr Ashton said the club will be definite starters in 2009.

Mr Ashton confirmed that Hallidays Point is still negotiating with two other ex-NRL players, utility backs Milton Thaiday and Owen Craige.

"I was secretary of the Forster-Tuncurry Hawks back in 1994 when we needed a coach and we signed John Harvey,'' Mr Ashton said.

"He attracted players to the club. I think Brett will have a similar impact with us.''

Mr Ashton said Grogan, who is employed with the NSW Police Force, will continue to live in Newcastle.

A centre, Grogan played with the Newcastle Knights until from 1996 to 1998 although injury forced him to miss the club's premiership win in 1997. He had a season in England with Gateshead.

In more recent seasons Grogan has played with Maitland and Raymond Terrace in the Newcastle competition.

While Grogan hasn't played competition football for two seasons, Mr Ashton said he has kept fit playing in sevens tournaments.

Meanwhile the club's annual meeting will be held on Sunday October 26 at the Hallidays Point Senior Citizens Centre starting at 2pm.