Warialda is also back in first grade and there could be even more teams joining in the next fortnight.

“I’m very up-beat and excited about 2010,” he said.

“We’ll wait and see if we get Uralla and Bingara joining us but I don’t think it will affect the competition if they don’t.

“I think it will still be a very good season.”

Macrae was re-elected unopposed at Sunday’s annual general meeting at Glen Innes but there are changes to the management committee.

Former president Peter Brissett has stepped down as senior vice president.

Ivan Coleman from Tingha steps up from the junior vice role, which in turn has been filled by Boomerangs president Linden McGrady.

Richard Stallworthy (Armidale) remains treasurer but as yet a secretary has not been elected.

Gordon Creighton (Glen Innes) and Norm Williams (Guyra) are the other members of the management committee.

Many of the clubs have also seen changes in administration which adds even more new blood to the Group.

“Clubs have had quite a few changes in their own administration and there’s a few new faces,” Macrae said.

“That includes Warialda and the Moree Boomerangs have some young and enthusiastic people there with a positive attitude who are keen to work with the management of Group 19 going forward.”

A draw will be released in a few weeks, once Bingara and Uralla have indicated whether they are in or out.

Macrae said they cannot go back to Group 4 so it’s either play in Group 19 or not at all.

“That gate has been closed,” he said.

“The option of playing President’s Cup has been rescinded.

“They have to decide if they want to join us in the first grade competition.”

The competition will consist of a 17 or 18 week regular season and ensures that travel is kept to a minimum.