For him, yesterday was nothing more than finally being able to tell the rest of the world about it.

Dating as far back as May last year, when he re-signed with the ARU until the 2011 Rugby World Cup, the 29 year old had an inkling he wouldn't last that long.

He wanted more family time, the chance to spend more hours with his wife Louise and their three chidlren Wyatt, Ryker and Soleil.

Smith, 29, confirmed yesterday he was retiring from international rugby, effective immediately.

He will play this Super 14 season with the Brumbies but will not return next year.

It was prior to leaving on the Wallabies Spring Tour in October last year Smith knew his time was up.

He thoughout it would be poor timing to inform anybody before such an important tour where the Wallabies were looking for a Grand Slam.

It was "a few days" after he returned in early December, Smith first contacted the ARU.

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times