Former Penrith star Bryce Cartwright says he is glad to be out of Sydney after linking with former mentor Garth Brennan at NRL club the Gold Coast Titans.

But the prized Titans recruit has denied a rift with Penrith coach Anthony Griffin despite leaving the Panthers abruptly two years into a five-season deal.

Cartwright, 23, began a four-year Titans stint at his first training session on the Gold Coast on Friday after announcing a shock move north last week.

Cartwright said he was in a “good space” after a nightmare 2017 season plagued by injury and off-field dramas.

Asked if he was glad to be out of the Sydney bubble, Cartwright said: “Definitely. Getting out of Sydney and a fresh start with my young family (was a factor).

“The last 12 months have been really tough but I have a great support system and a five-week-old son which keeps me on my toes.

“When I spoke to Gus (Penrith boss Phil Gould) it was upsetting but he thought it was the right move and we worked something out.”

Cartwright said a lack of opportunities in his preferred backrow position under Griffin was another factor.

“There are a lot of good backrowers down there (and) I was playing in the halves which is where I don’t want to play,” Cartwright said.

“I feel I am better suited at lock or on the edge (second row).

“I thought if I stay here I won’t get as much minutes on the field so to improve this is the best place to do it.”

Asked about his relationship with Griffin, Cartwright said: “I had a great relationship with Hook (Griffin).

“He is a straight-up guy, really honest, a hard worker.

“He gave me a ring as soon as this happened and wished me the best.”

Cartwright said the biggest lure was reuniting with Titans coach and former Penrith under 20s mentor Brennan.

“I have known Garth since I was 16, made my debut under him at the under 20s, he sort of guided me along the way,” he said.

“We have had a close relationship my whole career, we always kept in touch.”

Cartwright hopes to make his Titans debut in their opening trial against Brisbane at Toowoomba next weekend.