After playing in the National Youth Competition for St George Illawarra, Buchanan went on to play 41 games for the Wests Tigers.

He then joined the Widnes Vikings (40 games) before heading to the Bedford Championship League, with 29 appearances for the Toronto Wolfpack next to his name.

Buchanan then signed for the Burleigh Bears in a star-studded outfit that included Cowra's own Jeff Lynch.

The Bears had premiership success, with Buchanan leading from the front and 2019 saw Buchanan average 119 running metres per game.

Cowra Magpies president Marc McLeish said the team is excited to have Buchanan join the ranks.

"We were lucky to have Jack be a guest at our under 18s presentation night and I was so impressed at how he got involved," McLeish said.

"He hung out with the players like he'd been here for years.

"I think we have signed a really good clubman as well as a great player. A rare combination these days."

The Magpies are yet to secure a first grade coach for 2021 however are in talks with a few options that should be finalised shortly after Christmas.

"Everything has been so slow through COVID and much of last year's squads are staying intact so there is not much on the market," McLeish said.

The Magpies have however appointed coaches for reserves, league tag and under 18s.

Josh Newling will return to the black and white as reserve grade coach.

McLeish said Newling is a "fantastic player and club man and has already proved to be a popular appointment, attracting many players to the club which will be a terrific boost to depth in the squad".

Rory Brien has agreed to resume his position with the under 18s after being at the helm for this year's COVID craziness.

McLeish said "Rory did a wonderful job this year and has formed a great bond our young players bring both his experience and knowledge to the table".

Stacey Ashe will lead the first all female league tag squad taking on a captain/coaches role with the ladies' team.

Ashe has been around since the very first year of the league tag team and she is both and experienced and talented player.

The Magpies are confident the time is right for a player coach.

"Stacey is the full package, smart on the field and a fierce competitor," McLeish said.

"She already has the support of the playing group and we are excited to support Stacey through this new role."