But the Brumbies great will go from hero to villain when he returns to Canberra as the enemy this year for the first time his in decorated career.

Smith, the most capped Brumbies player in the club's history and a 10-times best and fairest winner, has joined the Queensland Reds for what will almost certainly be the final two years of his Australian career.

The champion flanker played 142 games for the Brumbies and won two Super Rugby championships between 2000 and 2010 and then a cameo in 2013.

So what should he expect when he returns to the capital to play against the Brumbies on April 8.

"Well the statue's gone now," said former teammate and Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham.

"There's a lot of respect both within our playing group and in the general public, so he'll be welcomed back even if he's playing for the Reds.

"I've got no doubt that when he comes back down to Canberra, there will be the ultimate respect. He's one of Australian rugby's greatest players and is still at a very high standard."

Smith, 36, has spent the past seven years playing for clubs in France, Japan, and England, but has signed a two-year deal to play with the Reds.

The Brumbies were keen to try to lure Smith back to Canberra this year to replace David Pocock, who is taking a sabbatical from Australian rugby. But Smith and his family have opted to settle in Brisbane.

Former Brumbies captain Stephen Moore will join Smith at the Reds in a move that will add an extra edge to the derbies between the teams this season.

Moore started his career in Brisbane 14 years ago, but spent the past eight years trying to help the Brumbies end a Super Rugby title drought.

It is hoped the arrival of Moore and Smith will help the Reds become a championship force, linking with stars Quade Cooper, James Slipper, Scott Higginbotham and Samu Kerevi.

But Reds coach Nick Stiles believes their impact off the field as mentors will be just as influential as the role they play on it.

"George has settled in really well, and anyone that knows him knows what a professional he is," Stiles said.

"Wherever he goes, he goes to a successful program. Even though he's been here a week or so he's already working with younger players and back-rowers.

"Having that stuff come from a player can be so much more powerful than when it comes from a coach.

"George is a quality individual and leaves an impression wherever he goes. He's exceptionally proud of the massive achievements he had down in Canberra ... guys like George and [Moore] aren't team hoppers.

"They go to an organisation for a reason and fans respect that, no one can begrudge that."