The top-order batsman has returned from a one-year stint in charge of Colac, replacing Paul Vogels in the South West Cricket Association outfit's hot seat.

Harkness will invest heavily in club culture and Timboon-based talent as he plots a rise up the division one ladder.

"Club culture is the most important thing. We've got a good bunch of blokes there," he told The Standard.

"We had a bit of a dip last season and that happens with all clubs at some point.

"We'll hopefully be climbing up the ladder a bit but we want the guys to be enjoying their cricket. Winning premierships is great and I'd love one but the most important thing is that the club is in a good place."

Harkness said an on-field captain was yet to be appointed.

He was delighted to return to play alongside long-term friends.

He revealed a "recruiting crew" were working hard to draw Timboon people back to cricket as the club aimed to field two sides.

"They're talking to as many local people as possible at the moment," Harkness said.

"I couldn't give you an exact number but things are looking better (with player numbers).

"We want to be more sustainable with two teams on the park and we're putting some work into juniors as well." The schoolteacher said "building pressure with the ball" was a key philosophy in his one-day gameplan.

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