Having finished his NRL and Super League career, Liam
Foran was looking for an opportunity to provide a stable
and positive lifestyle for his family, and his move to the
Upper Hunter has provided just that.
Having moved around for Rugby League most of his life, when it came time to
make that decision to plant the feet the decision was easy for Liam. “My family
had supported me throughout my life with my dreams and goals, so when it
came time to settle I wanted a nice place where we could have a great
lifestyle and work balance, and most importantly a place where the kids could
grow up in a great environment. So here we are.”
Not long after the move, Liam found himself a traineeship at Mt Arthur
Coal through Chandler Macleod which kickstarted his new career in the
mining industry.
“The traineeship was a great step into the mining industry and besides gaining
the skills on the big gear, it provided me with great insight into the industry
and a lot of knowledge I can take into my everyday life. Safety is paramount
when you are in this industry, there is no room for error and you have to be on
your game every minute of the shift as it’s not just you you’re looking out for,
you want to make sure everyone goes home safely.”
Still playing Rugby League in the Group 21 Competition, Liam steered the
Aberdeen Tigers to a premiership in 2017 and whilst they are widely
considered competition favorites he remains grounded about the fact.
“You don’t realise how many people around support Group 21. It’s a
topic of conversation throughout the crib huts. Its always good to hear
people’s different point of views, everyone’s got their own team and the
light-hearted banter is great and a good laugh.”
Asked if he thinks the tigers can go back to back premiers, Liam said, “It’s like
anything, if you’re willing to put the time and effort in, the rewards are there for
the taking. This competition is a bit disadvantaged with shiftwork, and most
sides won’t have their full complement of players until the end of the year. I
think we have a strong chance of being there, but I’m just having fun and if it
comes it comes. We’re just loving being in the area and the opportunity to
play some good footy, have a great career and fingers crossed, I can get a
permanent job. That’s my main goal.”