That's the hectic situation Cessnock Goannas coach Todd Edwards finds himself just a few weeks after the rugby league grand final where his team came up short against red hot favourites Western Suburbs.

"It has been really busy, I've been flat out," Edwards said of his time since season's end, which including a trip to Fiji with the Australian Universities representative side where he was assistant coach.

His goal is twofold - to replace the playing talent lost, and to get more consistency into his side for next season.

"We lost too many games we shouldn't have and in the end it told on us," he said.

"We came through three sudden death matches to get to the grand final.

"By the time the grand final came around we were needled up and really feeling the pinch.

"It was the story of the season for most teams ... we were all beating each other with Wests the standout."

The big changes next season will be to the pack - Brendan Hlad and Dan Metcalf both retiring and fellow prop Alex Mammone moving on too.

Also utility Paul Carter looks certain to sign with South Newcastle.

"We've lost some big bodies we'll need to replace and Paul Carter is done here too," Edwards said.

The good news is that the Goannas have signed an English prop Edwards has high hopes for - Liam McAvoy, who played last season with Newcastle Thunder in the English championship.

"He's a red head, white legs, typically English I suppose," Edwards laughed.

"But he has good leg speed, is 26, really aggressive, a good motor ... I've been watching him for a while and like him.

"All the scouting reports I've had on him say he's the sort of character you want at your club.

"The trouble is that part of the deal on getting him here was that the Knights will have first crack at him.

"So I guess that means we can't be sure just how much we'll see of him.

"That's how it is ... besides you don't want to stand in the way of someone wanting to play at the highest level they can."

Edwards is also looking to strengthen his halves where the club suffered injuries last season.

"We'll know a lot more in a few weeks. Right now we're in the middle of some serious negotiations.

"Still, we're in decent shape. Our under 19s had a strong season and five or six of those guys will be pushing for first grade next season, the reserves fell just short of the grand final and are putting pressure on also.

"It's a good situation because the competition for spots will be intense which is what any coach wants."

And after last season when it seemed like Edwards may not see out the season, how are things now off the field?

"They're good now, that's behind us," he said. "There's support there for what we're trying to do. Now just need to get a couple of these blokes signed."