Hazard, a Taree Red Rovers junior, was once included in Brad Fittler's Emerging Blues squad.

"It's no secret that he's had some dramas with his knee. Now he wants to have a season at home and with his family and friends,'' Old Bar secretary Jamie Moorehead said.

Moorehead said that Hazard still has his eyes on the NRL.

"He wants to have another crack, but we'll be happy to have him for next season,'' he added.

The Pirates have also signed a utility player, Jayden Newbold from Redcliffe under 20s. He captained the club's 20s last year. He is capable of playing in the halves or hooker.

"He's just looking for a change,'' Moorehead said.

Newbold has had a look around the area and is expected to move here next January.

The Pirates will meet this week to discuss the first grade coaching position, with Moorehead confident of making an announcement later this week or early next week.

However, prop Shannon Ellem, who has been the club's most consistent forward for the past two years, is moving back to Wingham, his junior club.

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Ellem was the assistant coach of first grade this year and captained the North Coast under 23s. He has been with the Pirates for two seasons.

"I have nothing but praise for Shannon, he's been great for us,'' Moorehead said.

Moorehead was the first grade coach this year but has indicated he won't be seeking the position for 2020.

Promising front rower Jarad Wooster will be trialing for Queensland club South Logan. Wooster had been named in the North Coast under 23 train-on squad for next year.

However, the majority of the 2019 roster will be available next year, including promising juniors Joel Minihan, Tanna Hinton and Joe Hinton.

Moorehead said some players from the winning under 18 side including hooker Daniel Cocksedge and prop Sam Wilkes will be staying in the area. Both played some first grade last season.