Middleton informed the league last week of his intentions to step aside from the role he has held for the past two country championships campaigns.

The Bungaree premiership coach has been part of the coaching panel for all four of the league’s triumphs since its return from interleague hiatus in 2012.

Middleton said he has agreed to a position with the Demons in season 2016, which means he is not free to commit fully to the interleauge position.

“I really enjoyed it, but I’ve been involved with it for four years now so it’s probably time somebody else took it to the next level,” he said.

Middleton said he felt last season was perhaps the best of the interleague campaigns he has been involved in, with the Highlanders fielding a strong side in a thumping win over Horsham District.

And he admitted he would be keen to return to the helm if the opportunity ever presented itself down the track.

“If I had the time again and they wanted me again, I’d definitely put my hand up,” he said.

Central Highlands administrator Diane Ryan told The Courier she expected a replacement for Middleton to be named this week.

Ryan said the league is yet to decide upon a venue for next year’s showdown with Geelong and District, which will be hosted by the Central Highlands.

Middleton’s exit means the Central Highlands and Ballarat leagues are both without coaches for the 2016 titles. Ballarat is looking for a replacement for Shane Skontra, who has taken on a job with Maryborough in the Bendigo competition.