Ruby Rose informed her friends on social networking site Facebook that her engagement with supermodel Catherine McNeil is over as they have already parted ways.

It is believed that McNeil ended the relationship. However, reps from both sides declined to give any statements.

Distance seemed to be the reason for the couple's break up and has caused McNeil, who is currently based in New York, to breakdown.

"They are and have long been tremendous friends," a friend of the couple said yesterday, confirming the split.

"It's sad they've broken up and both women are determined to remain close but the relationship wasn't working."

The two have known each other for seven years. They met during a teen magazine modelling competition and have been friends since then.

Sources say that McNeil's prestigious Chic mode agency is relieved that the relationship is finally over.

"They thought the press she was getting with Rose was damaging her. They didn't want her to be depicted as some sex-fiend lesbian," one said.