Wallabies inside back Berrick Barnes says talk of a golden era in Australian rugby is premature.

However after re-signing with the ARU and the NSW Waratahs for another two years, he's hoping to be around if one does eventuate.

Barnes became the fifth Wallabies player within a week to recommit to Australian rugby, flying in the face of the expected mass exodus of stars to Europe following the Rugby World Cup later this year.

The talented 24-year-old joins team-mates Stephen Moore, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Drew Mitchell and Ben Alexander.

The swag of re-signings has prompted talk about the Australian side being on the cusp of "something special".

While the 24-year-old felt positive about the Wallabies' future, he was quick to point out that the recent trophy cabinet was still bare.

"We've won trophies but in the scheme of things people look at the Bledisloe Cup, the Tri-Nations and obviously the World Cup and unfortunately over the last few years we haven't been able to claim any of those," Barnes said on Friday.

"We've come close on a number of occasions but to say you've lifted a Bledisloe or a Tri Nations or a World Cup would be nice."

As well as offers to play in France, Barnes said he considered a return to rugby league, which he played for a season with the Brisbane Broncos in 2005.

"I put some thought to it, I do love rugby league, it's a great game," he said.

"I've got a bit of history there but at the end of the day there's still quite a bit I want to achieve in rugby as well.

"I still feel there's probably a few boxes I want to tick before that (returning to league)."

He was happy to have his future settled ahead of the Super rugby kick-off next weekend, when his Waratahs travel to Melbourne to face the Rebels.

"I've got stability and a sense of security. Now I can just focus on the footy," said Barnes, who started his career with three seasons at the Queensland Reds.

"I'm excited to be staying here in Sydney with the opportunity to represent my country as well.

"I feel like I am wanted. I'm excited about being here."

ARU boss John O'Neill said the re-signing of Barnes, who made his Test debut at the 2007 World Cup and has 31 caps, was further confirmation that the "new generation" Wallabies were determined create an era of consistent success.

"Like me, our players believe they are on the cusp of something special," O'Neill said.

"They want to taste the kind of success that brings with it the most coveted silverware.

"They are a team with an average age of just 24 and they are sitting at No.2 in the world.

"It's why so many people around the game are so excited by what lies ahead in 2011 and in the years to come."

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