Daniel Collinson: Wests batsman takes a break from work and explains what he's up to and where he's been

December's bite is bad news for Collinson, given that he works as a lawn-care specialist. But conversely, he didn't have to worry about a boss breathing down his neck.

The West Tamworth batsman started the business, We'll Cut Ya Grass, with his younger brother Jamie almost a year ago.

With a life partner and four children to care for, he has a lot riding on it being successful.

"It's good. It's keeping me busy," he said of the work.

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Collinson started the business upon returning to Tamworth after a stint living in Raymond Terrace.

The chance to be his own boss was a major motiving factor behind starting the operation.

When he was in Raymond Terrace, Collison played two seasons of first grade with Tenambit Morpeth in the Maitland competition.

"The first season was a bit shaky, but then I started getting used to it a little bit more in the second year," he said.

Better consistency is what he's striving for this season, "because the last couple of years I haven't been really consistent".

In West Tamworth's drought-breaking win over undefeated Bective East in a Twenty20 clash last round, Collinson clubbed 66.

"It's just changing the whole spirit now," the 33-year-old said of Wests' first victory of the season. "We actually know how to win."

On Saturday, Wests play South Tamworth at Riverside 2. Souths are coming off a win over City United.

"It's gonna be a decent challenge," Collinson said.

Growing up, the former Oxley High student dreamed of becoming a rugby league professional.

At age 16, he unsuccessfully trialled with the Sydney Roosters.

"There were just real big dudes there, and I was just a little fella," he said of the experience.

Collinson said the Knights also had "a look" at him. "But I didn't have the best game in the world."

He went on to play reserve grade for North Tamworth.

Ex-Blues enforcer Matt Parsons, who coached the Bears in 2007 and 2008, gave the halfback/five-eighth a shot in first grade when a spot became available through injury.

Collinson said he had "a couple of games" in the top grade, then returned to reserve grade.

His rugby league career ended in 2013 when he did his ACL playing for Quirindi in the now-defunct second division.

Collinson said life had taught him not to "take anything for granted".

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