Whitehaven have snapped up another Aussie import as they look to mount a serious challenge in next year’s Betfred Championship.

Lachlan Walmsley, 22, has signed on the dotted line for Gary Charlton’s side on a one-year-deal and the head coach is excited about what the youngster can bring to the side.

Walmsley can play a variety of positions but fullback is his preferred position. He has come through the Newcastle Knights and South Sydney systems where he has played at a high level in the Under 20 competitions.

Charlton said: ““He’s a really exciting player, he has pace to burn and knows where the try line is.

“He seems to have good awareness and good skills. What I’ve seen of him really excites me and I can’t wait to see him in action.

“He is a great a great fit for our squad and an exciting addition.”

The youngster has Scottish heritage and is targeting a place in the Scotland World Cup squad.

Walmsley added: “I’m really looking forward to coming over and playing a different kind of footy. I know a little bit about the Championship and I want to give it a shot.

“I’d love to get in the Scotland squad for next year’s Rugby League World Cup so I’ll be giving it a good go.”

Haven chairman Tom Todd believes the signing is another positive step or the club.

He said: “More good news for the fans. Another Australian is joining our squad in the shape of Lachlan Walmsley and the depth of talent grows bigger and better each week.

“Lachlan is what ‘in the day’ we would call a utility back or utility three-quarter. He can play wing, fullback, centre and, if needed, half back.

“The footage I saw showed he had pace and an eye for the gap and was good at following up in general as the team went forward.

“At only 22 he has played in the Newcastle Knights system and also played for South Sydney in the New South Wales Cup.

“Once again credit to Mark Stamper and the football committee for all their efforts and the Vice Presidents for their on-going financial support. I seem to be saying this every week and though it may sound repetitive I will continue to thank all the good work being done by various individuals at the club.”

The club also thanked Bryce Poisel from Play Lockr in Australia for all his help in getting this signing through.

The Chairman also thanked everyone involved in the Rock the Recre’ festival held on the Recreation Ground last Saturday. He said, “A thanks also goes out to all the individuals who organised and supported the ‘festival’ on Saturday gone, it was a huge success and thanks to all the young people who turned up and behaved impeccably - you were a credit to the town - thank you.”