Neil has been playing in Brass Bands, on Solo Cornet and Flugel, for more than 50 years.

In his younger days, his tally of solo and duet successes was fairly impressive.

He has lost count of the number of contests, concerts, radio and television engagements taken part in both here in Australia, and overseas and during these times, his wife Ronice has almost always also been involved.

There have been two overseas band trips, in 1978 to the Philippines, Switzerland and Canada, and in 1984 to Singapore, Switzerland, UK and Scotland.

For his personal efforts in organizing the 1984 Tour, Neil was presented with a special plaque from the City of Footscray.

He has received Life Membership awards from the Sale, Brunswick, and Footscray-Yarraville bands, and also has the VBL's Certificate of Honour.

Ronice is also a Life Member of Footscray-Yarraville.

In 2001, Neil took part in the Swiss Festival Contest with the Eriswil band at Fribourg.

Professionally, he started his career as an Industrial Chemist, but changed into Teaching, and after more than thirty five years service received the Directorate of School Education's Certificate of Recognition.

Before retiring in 1997, Neil had been a Secondary College Principal for many years.

As well as enjoying playing at Kew, he also finds time to carve large rocking horses, and with Ronice travels extensively in their caravan, as well as overseas.