The 35 year old Melbourne Storm star is hanging up his boots after more than 300 club games, 30 international tests and 31 State of Origin appearances for Queensland.

As he thanked his family for inspiring and supporting him throughout his career, he saved his final words for the game itself.

"Lastly, I'd just like to thank the game of rugby league," he said. "It gave me heroes when I was a boy and a chance to become one myself.

"It's given me opportunity, security, friendship and values. For this I'm forever in debt. Thank you."

But he fought hardest to keep his emotions in check when he paid tribute to coach Craig Bellamy's influence on him and his career.

"Thanks for believing in me," the Nambour-born fullback said, his voice breaking. "Your support and guidance and care has been really instrumental throughout my career.

"You taught me the harder you work, the luckier you get and I have no doubt my career would not have been as successful or consistent if you didn't instil that work ethic in me."

And he also hailed the impact of team-mates Cameron Smith and Cooper Cronk on his life.

"Not only have you guys helped create opportunities for me on the field," he said. "But when your peers drive themselves to be the best, and they continually succeed, that's infectious.

"This is why you two have had the greatest influence on my career."

The former trackwork jockey is now looking to work with his racehorses when this season ends and the curtain falls on his epic 15 year career.