Simpson leaves Nissan Arena a legend of the club having made 157 national league appearances in her time with the Firebirds, including premierships in 2015 and 2016.
Only former teammates Romelda Aiken-George (197 games) and Laura Geitz (169 games) have played more games for the Firebirds.
A Randwick Rugby Netball Club junior, Simpson moved from her native Sydney to Brisbane ahead of the 2013 season alongside Kim Ravaillion.
The Firebirds would go on to finish as runners-up in Simpson’s first season, the first of four Grand Final appearances Simpson would make with the club.
Debuting for the Diamonds in 2015 against New Zealand, Simpson made 41 appearances for her country including being vice-captain for the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.
In 2017, Simpson was named Firebirds’ captain, leading the club until stepping down from the role ahead of the 2022 campaign.
As well as her team honours, Simpson won the Liz Ellis Diamond and Firebirds’ MVP awards in a stellar 2017 campaign.
She would return to a formal leadership role as part of a four-player leadership group in 2023 under Head Coach Bec Bulley.
Simpson’s final season in purple included a significant milestone when she became just the third Firebird to make 150 appearances for the club in the Round 5 clash against West Coast Fever at Nissan Arena.
Bulley paid tribute to Simpson’s Firebirds career, leadership and immense contribution to the club.
“It’s been an absolute honour to play alongside and then coach a Firebirds legend such as Gabi,” Bulley said.
“Her contribution to the Firebirds on and off the court has been incalculable. Whether setting the standards for her teammates with her dedication to her netball craft or creating a culture and legacy of what it means to be a Firebird, Gabi has been front and centre throughout her career.
“It’s no surprise she is an inspiration to so many and a fan favourite, who will always be remembered as one of the best players to don the purple dress.
“Gabi’s presence will be deeply missed but we wish her all the very best for the future.”
Netball Queensland CEO Kate Davies reflected that Simpon’s legacy goes well beyond the court and leaves an indelible mark.
“Gabi’s genuine desire and efforts to build inclusive spaces for athletes and staff is something that will endure and for which Netball Queensland and the Firebirds Club is better for,” Davies said.
“These characteristics are deeply embedded also in her family - her beautiful parents, Janene and Jim and sister Emily, who have been stalwart members of the Purple Family flying on countless occasions from Sydney to support Gabi and the team in Queensland.”
