Searle, who has had an un-official attachment to the Coutas over several years, mentored the A-Grade side last season - helping it to its first finals appearance in more than 20 years.
She replaces Katrina Daws, who stepped down as coach after two seasons in the job.
Searle is a Victorian Institute of Sport Hall of Fame member , boasting an impressive record on and off the court. The former national assistant coach has also coached the Melbourne Kestrals, West Coast Fever, Adelaide Thunderbirds. She was also previously mentor with the Brunei national team.
“We are honoured to have Jane as Head Coach at Queenscliff and look forward to next season,” the club posted on its Facebook page.
Assisting Searle in the role will be Queenscliffe local Laura Clarke, who returns to the Coutas having played over many years as a junior.
Laura’s mum Sylvia was a founding member of the club.
“They say if you want something done you ask a buddy person and with two young children, a career as a paramedic and a husband who has put up his hand to be the QFNC Reserves coach, Laura certainly has her hands full,” the club said.
The club’s talent stocks have been boosted in the off-season with the signing of state level player, and former Queenscliff junior Laura Cayzer and talented teenagers Madison Foot and Sienna Bruhn - sister of Geelong footballer Tanner Bruhn.
Cayzer was a member of the Geelong Cougars Victorian Netball League Club and more recently played at GFL club St Mary’s.