From the outset, my time at the Waratahs has been a terrific experience and a massive challenge.

I often liken it to mountain climbing. In the Australian rugby landscape, it comes close to Everest, with many tricks to the ascent. Making the top has always been dangerous but compelling. It was thrilling to be so close to winning the Super 12 in 2005, but the very next year you start from base camp again. So as we ploughed on with stage two of our 2008 climb, the announcement was made this week that I would not continue past this season.

I felt relief that NSWRU chief executive Jim L'Estrange and I could agree to move ahead and end all the speculation, which had started to impact on the team. I am not overly sentimental as it can be a numbing business. Managing disappointment is a major part and you get used to dealing with negatives. I've spent five great years at NSW and now I look forward to finishing off the season with a shot at the title. The response from family, friends and the rugby community has been extremely humbling. Brumbies coach Laurie Fisher sent me a great text message about his perception of my time at the Tahs. Words such as "strength of character" and "positive cultural change" are great traits and legacies, and in a world where it is easier not to communicate, Laurie's message was important.

Reds coach Phil Mooney, who I don't know really well, took the time to send me an email from South Africa. Again, it was appreciated. John Mitchell at the Force and I swapped four or five missed calls before having a good chat. John has been there before and came out the other side intact, so his words were naturally positive.

I reflected on the warming contact from all three coaches and it was in fact a highlight for me on what otherwise was a sad April Fool's day. John did make a telling reflection to me and it stuck. He discussed the fellowship of coaches and said they primarily enjoyed the support of their families and, in times of need, other coaches.

I've spent some busy nights replying to hundreds of pieces of correspondence. If people can be bothered to write, then I need to reply. There has been some peripheral interest from other sports - probably because a mate of mine, Dragons coach Nathan Brown, suffered on April Fool's day as well. Swans mentor Paul Roos wrote an interesting article reflecting on the new habit of coaches leaving early. His comments on winning versus entertainment were practical observations. His own personal battles with the head honchos at the AFL criticising the Swans' style have been fascinating. Paul has always stuck to his guns and he is one of the most respected people in AFL for the consistency of his approach on all matters.

I have enjoyed the opportunity at the Waratahs. This year's squad has been the best, particularly in terms of attitude and focus. The climb to the top always gets harder and the smaller steps matter. I hope that the group character and resolve will get us there. Some thought I got a bit emotional during the press conference the other day. I'd never admit to that, of course. After all, we coaches have a certain demeanour to portray.

But rest assured that if we win the title, I'll let it all hang out. Thanks for the memories.