Gestier has decided on a fresh start and departs the Demons after three years to sign with Holbrook.

The 29-year-old will join a number of former Lavington teammates at the Brookers after deciding he wanted to free himself of any coaching duties and get back to enjoying his football.

Gestier is looking forward to reuniting with Holbrook coach Matt Sharp next year.

"It was more a no than yes to start with but it was the connection with the Lavi boys that changed my mind," Gestier said.

"I only had the one season at Lavi and did my knee but I had a lot to do with Matt. We formed a bond and I've always followed him and he's followed me. He gave me a call and gave me a lot to think about.

"Their approach was exactly what I was after, refreshing and no pressure. The ball is in my court a fair bit and they ticked a lot of boxes."

Gestier leaves Crossroads Oval as a premiership coach after leading the Demons to the 2018 flag.

He took them to a grand final in his first season, losing to Leeton-Whitton by six points, then went one better the next year.

This season, his third in charge, took its toll on Gestier as the Demons lost their last nine games to miss finals for the first time in 19 years.

Gestier battled injury and suspension and was burnt out by season's end. He announced his intention to step down in July and the Demons have since replaced him with Brett Sommerville.

Gestier, who kicked 63 goals in 37 games for Collingullie-GP, said he is looking forward to a fresh start.

"Just getting away and without a lot of the pressure that goes with coaching," he said.

"I'm looking forward to just getting back to enjoying my footy.

"I'll look back on my time at Gullie very fondly. I'm proud of the lads' efforts and what went on. Obviously this year was disappointing but as a whole, winning a premiership and just losing one I'll look back on pretty well."

Holbrook are looking to improve on this year's effort, where they made it to the second week of finals.

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