After six seasons, Josh Drummond will depart North Melbourne and return home to Queensland for family reasons.

A highly-regarded defender with Brisbane, Drummond turned to coaching at the end of 2012 when injury forced an early end to his playing career.

Initially signed as a development coach working with the club’s North Ballarat-affiliated players, he later moved into the AFL coaches box alongside Brad Scott.

Most recently, Drummond looked after the defenders and worked closely with the likes of Scott Thompson, Jamie Macmillan, Marley Williams, Robbie Tarrant and Luke McDonald, and was instrumental in Majak Daw’s transition to defence.

North GM football Cameron Joyce said Drummond has been an influential member of the club.

“Josh has been an integral part of our football department, a vital resource for the players and a great support to Brad Scott and his fellow coaches,” Joyce said.

“He has brought an invaluable amount of knowledge and experience to the club over the past six years.

“We sincerely thank Josh for his time at North, and wish him and his young family all the best for the future.”