Slipper relishing fresh start at Brumbies

He's still figuring out how to get through the gym door, but new Brumbies recruit James Slipper feels his move to Canberra is the fresh start he so desperately needed.

Slipper's future looked uncertain earlier this year when he was dumped by the Queensland Reds after testing positive to cocaine for a second time.

He was also stood down from the Wallabies and banned for two months.

But after much soul searching, Slipper is now in a better place, and jumped at the chance to join the Brumbies on a two-year deal.

The 86-Test veteran started training with the Brumbies this week, and feels the new uniform suits him.

"It's very slimming," he joked.

"I think the fresh start has been really good for me. I've only trained for two days now, and I've really enjoyed it.

I've been at the Reds for 10, 12 years. So to be at a different club is different. It's my first job change since school.

"For me it's a big change, and one I probably needed. I'll always be grateful to Queensland. It's where I grew up, and I'll always love the club.

"But for now it's about moving forward, becoming a better player and investing in this good club."

Slipper is still getting accustomed to the Canberra weather and his new work place.

"You walk into a new club and you don't know how to get into the front door, or you don't know how to get into the gym," he said.

"In some facets it feels like the first day of school, but overall I've fitted in well."

Slipper said he was humbled to be given a chance with the Brumbies, and he is determined to help the franchise achieve success.

The Brumbies have a wealth of options in the front row, with Wallabies Allan Alaalatoa and Scott Sio leading the way.

"When there's competition for spots for certain positions, it drives performance a bit more," Slipper said.

"Hopefully that works for us. We can work together and work well. We're all good mates, so it's going to be enjoyable."