Lawrie McKinna is a leader whose journey spans professional football, elite coaching, business, and politics.
From playing professionally in Scotland to becoming the inaugural coach of the Central Coast Mariners, Lawrie helped shape one of Australia’s most recognised sporting clubs. He went on to lead teams to grand finals and later step into executive leadership roles across Australian football.
Today, as Mayor of the Central Coast, Lawrie brings that same leadership mindset into community, infrastructure, and regional development. Driven by values of teamwork, persistence, and real impact.

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Add, Follow or Contact Lawrie:
Website: https://www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/mayor-mckinna

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Timestamps
(00:00:00) Introduction - Lawrie McKinna's Journey

(00:01:49) Sponsor Shoutout

(00:03:57) Welcome Lawrie McKinna

(00:04:22) Growing up in Scotland and the Ten Pound Passage

(00:07:15) Starting Out - Lace Mills and Meeting Christine

(00:11:55) Professional Football Beginnings - Darville Juniors and Dundee United

(00:15:38) Signing with Kilmarnock FC

(00:20:14) Competitive Life in the Scottish Football League

(00:22:45) The Old Firm Rivalry - Rangers vs Celtic

(00:26:06) Moving to Australia - Melbourne and the NSL

(00:30:00) Life in Sydney - Blacktown City and Major Injuries

(00:34:03) Transitioning into Coaching and Sydney Olympic

(00:37:26) The Birth of the Central Coast Mariners

(00:41:55) Building the Mariners Culture and Identity

(00:47:20) Bringing Mark Bosnich Back to Australia

(00:52:20) Coaching in China - Chengdu Blades and Chongqing Lifan

(00:59:48) John Singleton and the 5-Year Menu Contract

(01:07:49) Stepping into Politics - Mayor of Gosford

(01:10:42) CEO of Newcastle Jets and Financial Sacrifice

(01:19:44) Team Central Coast and the Amalgamated Council - Mayor of the Central Coast

(01:26:26) The Reality of Local Government - Roads, Rates and Rubbish

(01:35:34) The Future of Gosford and Regional Development

(01:41:50) New Library & Connecting with the University of Newcastle

(01:47:35) Community Champions and Giving Back

(01:53:27) Sound Advice and Closing Remarks

(02:02:53) Outro and Sponsor Gratitude

Episode 70: #069 Lawrie McKinna