Former Australia coach Wayne Bennett has been appointed as the next coach of St George Illawarra, ruling out a move to St Helens.

Bennett, who has been in charge of Brisbane Broncos since their inception 20 years ago, had hinted at a move to Super League but instead will succeed Nathan Brown at the Dragons at the end of the season.

"They are one of the great clubs and brands of the NRL with a rich history and tradition," said Bennett, who has agreed a three-year deal.

Meanwhile, as part of a coaching merry-go-round, Canberra have announced that former Wigan and Leeds forward David Furner will be their head coach from 2009 after agreeing a three-year deal.

Furner, who returned to Australia in 2004 to become assistant coach at the Raiders, will replace Neil Henry at the end of October.

Henry is expected to be appointed by North Queensland Cowboys ahead of Ian Millward and in succession to former Leeds coach Graham Murray, who is being tipped to return to Super League.

Two Super League coaches, Daniel Anderson (St Helens) and Terry Matterson (Castleford), are among the front-runners to fill the Brisbane vacancy.

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