Russell boarded at the College from 1975 to 1978 and was a member of McArthur House. He was an athletic student, serving as a member of the Athletics team as well as the 5^th VIII and 2^nd VIII rowing crews. He received school rowing colours in 1978. Russell went on to study and work in the wine industry. He managed multiple vineyards, most recently Providence Vineyard in Tasmania.

Russell passed away 2 April 2026, aged 65 years.