Rebels sign Edinburgh lock

Toolis will join the Rebels after playing for Edinburgh in the Pro12 competition since 2013, which included an appearance in the 2015 European Challenge Cup Final.

Toolis, along with twin brother Ben, was a member of the Australian Rugby Union's National Academy where he played in the Pacific Nations Cup.

Rebels coach Tony McGahan said his experience in a set piece dominated Northern Nemisphere will be a welcome addition to the team.

"Alex is an athletic and skilled lock who will bring strong set piece experience to the Rebels and a hungry attitude to succeed in the world’s toughest rugby competition," McGahan said.

The two-metre, 117kg lock also been on-loan to London Irish in 2014.

Toolis said he was looking forward to testing his skills against the world's best.

"Playing in Europe was a great experience and helped develop my game but I'm excited by the opportunity to return home and test myself against the world's best players," Toolis said.

Toolis will play for the Melbourne Rising in the upcoming 2016 National Rugby Championship (NRC).