Tate is returning from Western Australia to take up employment in Ballarat.

He left the Selkirk Roosters after 55 senior games at the end of 2014 to further his podiatry studies in Perth, and continued his football career with Claremont in the WAFL.

The 24-year-old played his 25^th and last game for Claremont on Saturday – he had 18 disposals and was named in the Tigers’ best - and is scheduled to arrive in Ballarat on May 7.

Roosters coach Marc Greig is uncertain exactly when Tate will make his first appearance.

North Ballarat has a bye this week and plays Footscray on Sunday, May 8 and Richmond the following week.

Greig said having put in a full pre-season and played five home and away games with Claremont, Tate was match fit and ready to go.

He said he was considering putting Tate straight into the team as soon as he was available. “He’s a Rooster. He’s been a leader (here).”

Greig said he had been delighted to get a call from Tate asking whether there were any spots still available.

He said it had been in case of opportunities like this that North Ballarat had kept a few positions open.

Greig said Tate would be a great asset, adding a mature body and on-field leadership to his young, injury-riddled  team.

Tate said he had not been able to find full-time work in Perth. “The opportunity to work full-time, doing what I want to do in my hometown was a pull too strong.”