Originally from Maheno in North Otago Robbie grew up and went to school at Maheno then Waitaki Boys High School in Oamaru.

Robbie started his career as an office boy for Reid Farmers in 1990. Working through the stock division before being posted to the Milton South Otago area as a junior agent.

Robbie's work ethic and experience helped him progress to Roxburgh then back to Milton before transferring to Pyne Gould Guinness Wrightson (PGGW) Cheviot in 2000. Robbie had joined Rural Livestock as a shareholder in 2005 and resides now in Cheviot.

Robbie enjoys fishing, diving, golf, and rugby union.