The 22 year old Australian, who has been linked with the club for several weeks, completed the formalities of a one year contract with an option for a second season late yesterday.

Nash, who flew back into England after a close season break on the Gold Coast last week, was one of the north east club's most potent attacking weapons in 2009, scoring 13 tries in 27 appearances.

That total included a treble in the Thunder's shock win over Fax in June, firing coach Matt Calland's desire to make the English passport holder the fourth Australian-born player on the club's books next season.

"Halifax is a bigger club than Gateshead, more professional, and I am looking forward to a couple of good years here," said Nash, who joined Gateshead in 2007 on the recommendation of former Castleford player Adrian Vowles.

"Last year was my first year in the Championship, but I have aspirations to play at the highest level I can and this is the best place for me to further my career.

"I played in the local comp on the Gold Coast, played against Adrian Vowles and he recommended me to Dave Woods up at Gateshead.

"All through juniors I played rugby union, and I only started playing league when I was 18.

"I've had some good coaches and I still feel I am improving and I hope I can keep that going."

Nash headed straight to training, where he was joined by fellow countryman and former Thunder teammate Luke Branighan, who flew into Manchester yesterday morning along with half back partner Ben Black.

"Luke was a big factor in me coming here too because he is a great player to play with," said Nash.

"I had a really good combination with him out on the left and hopefully we can continue that.

"I liked the style of play Halifax had last year. I like to run wide and off load the ball if I get the chance so it should suit my game."

2010 HALIFAX SQUAD
Frank Watene
Mark Roberts
Bob Beswick
Neil Cherryholme
Stephen Bannister
Rob Worrincy
Dave Wrench
Miles Greenwood
Lee Paterson
Shad Royston
James Haley
Jon Goddard
Ben Black
Sean Penkywicz
Mark Gleeson
Said Tamghart
David Larder
Makali Aizue
Stanley Gene
Dominic Maloney
Luke Branighan
Dylan Nash