With a population of 164 at last count, tiny Niangala may not have a pub or general store but does boast a town hall, small public school and a berry farm.

Casey's parents parents Col and Bronwyn live in Niangala while Casey and wife Adriana own a number of properties around the area fuelling speculation that the Stoners might be the newest addition to town.

Trout fishing, berry picking and watching the clouds roll by are just a few of the pleasant pastimes that the Stoners may enjoy in Niangala, a world away from the heady fast-paced world of international motor sport.

Tamworth businessman and motorbike enthusiast Dusty Russell who met Casey as a youngster when he was racing in juniors, said the champion would be made very welcome in the Tamworth bike scene.

"I think he could open up a bike shop here," said Mr Russell.

"There's already five in town though, he'd have to prove himself."

Niangala Public School teacher Pam Miller said if the Stoners decided to call Niangala home, Casey might find himself on the end of a pair of tongs at the annual community barbecue or on the Niangala Hall committee..

"He's a pretty normal person," said Mrs Miller.

"I'd have a yak over the back fence to him, I think he'd fit in nicely."

Niangala is about as far away from France as possible, where Casey is preparing for the French Grand Prix on Sunday.

The twice world motorcycling champion Casey Stoner stunned the sport on Thursday by announcing he will quit at the end of the season for "family reasons".

The 26-year-old Australian, who has won 35 MotoGP races in his career and leads the current standings after winning two of the season's three events, made his announcement at a news conference.

"After a long period of thought and numerous discussions with my wife and family, I have decided to stop competing at the end of the season," said Honda's defending champion.

"After so many years taking part in this sport that I love, and with all the sacrifices that I have had to make, I no longer have the passion to continue and I think that it is best to stop."

Stoner, who also won the world title in 2007 with Ducati, became a father for the first time in February when his wife Adrianna gave birth to baby daughter Alessandra.

At the time he shrugged off suggestions that fatherhood would dampen his love of motorcycling.

"They say you slow down when you get married, but in my first year of marriage I won the title," said Stoner on the eve of the season.

"When I found out we were having a baby, I won it a second time. I don't think that's the case (that you slow down)."

Nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi, one of Stoner's great rivals, said he was shocked by the Australian's decision.

"It's a huge surprise to me as it is for everyone else," said the Italian. "It's bad news for the world of MotoGP.

"At the end of the season, we are going to lose a great rider and a great rival, but it's his decision."