Andrews, who returned to the club this season after a six-year stint in the North Central Football League with Charlton, will replace outgoing coach Andrew Tatchell.

Tatchell informed the Magpies' senior playing group of his intention to stand down before the club's reserves clash against Beaufort on Saturday.

The 31-year-old Tatchell, who lives in Maryborough, leaves after a one-year stint with the Magpies, which saw the senior side claim six wins, four more than it managed in 2009.

"I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity. I had quite a few offers back over this way, but I thought (Clunes) was a place I could really improve and that was outside of my area," Tatchell said.

"It's been fantastic, I've really enjoyed it. It's a very good football club and I'm leaving on very good terms."

Andrews played his junior football with the Magpies, and was part of the club's 1993 senior premiership as a youngster.

The 36-year-old said his interests were in being a playing coach.

"You go away and develop skills and you bring those skills with you. My window of coaching is going to close in the next couple of years so it was now or never for me," he said.

Andrews's goals for the future were simple and achievable.

"Gradual improvement and something that can be sustained," he said.

"And developing the skills of the players right through the footy club."

Andrews' previous coaching experience with Charlton saw the club clinch the senior premiership last season.

Clunes general manager Chris McLennan said the club was "extremely happy" with Tatchell's efforts at the helm this season and was excited by the prospect of Andrews leading the club forward.