The former Sydney FC founding shareholder - who sold his stake in the sky blues in 2007 - will take the Mariners reins immediately after being voted into the post by the club's board.
 
“I would firstly like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Lyall for the unquantifiable contribution he has made to this club over the past five years," said Turnbull today.
 
“I am incredibly excited by the opportunity I have been given and I look forward to leading the club as it continues its journey to becoming the Centre of Excellence for Football in Australia.”
 
Turnbull’s love of football saw him finally hang up the boots as a player at the beginning of August, 47 years after first playing with North Bankstown as a seven year old.
 
After years of playing and administration in Sydney’s North West, after his role at Sydney FC Turnbull became the Mariners major shareholder in 2007 at a crucial time for the club.
 
“In the last few years I have grown to love the Central Coast, it’s people, its way of life and its love of sport," said Turnbull.

"The Mariners have always been a community club, and our commitment to football on the Central Coast has never been in question.

"We are continuing to invest heavily in grassroots sport, with the re-launch of our ambassador program, and the introduction of the EnergyAustralia Junior Football Membership in conjunction with Central Coast Football, providing free access to all Mariners home matches at Bluetongue Stadium for players aged 16 and under registered to a local club.
 
“This is an exciting time to be a Mariners Member or supporter.”
 
He added: “I believe wholeheartedly in this club, its players, coaches, staff, commercial partners and most importantly our Members and supporters, and I believe in the Hyundai A-League, and Football in Australia.
 
“It is my ambition to make the Mariners the benchmark for all other clubs to strive for, and the club of choice for all players.
 
“I look forward to getting to know many more of the club’s Members, and to working closely with Central Coast Football and all the stakeholders of the game on the Coast to make our great game even greater.”