Neil boarded at the College from 1939 to 1947. In his final years at school he reached the rank of Company Sergeant Major (CSM) and was accepted to the University of Melbourne to study agricultural science. He was a resident at Ormond College for his studies which sparked a lifelong interest in innovations in agriculture.

He returned to the family property, Glenspean near Meredith in 1952, managing it with his brother John (OGC 1939). It became a decades long partnership before the next generation took the reins.

Neil's commitment to the Meredith and wider community area is seen through his involvement in a number of organisations. As well as serving as local shire councillor, he was involved in Community Aid Abroad, Elaine/Meredith Youth Group, CFA, Woodburn Creek School Council, Meredith Hall Committee, Prison Fellowship and others.

Neil served on the College Council from 1966-1981.

Neil married June in 1957 and they have five children: Jane (MOC 1973) , Sandy (OGC 1973), Simon (OGC 1977), Kate (OGC 1979), and Hamish (OGC 1989).