DescriptionThis interview consists of one audio recording and transcript. Neil Raymond Pillidge was interviewed on 10 May 2006 at the Whitlam Library, Cabramatta by Shirley Kingsford McLeod.Interview SummaryNeil Raymond Pillidge was born 20 August 1935, in Fairfield. His mother’s family moved around the state on railway work before they came to Fairfield in 1922. Neil’s father was born in Morpeth (Hunter Valley); he met Neil’s mother in Fairfield in 1929. Neil’s father and uncle had a firewood business; they would cut down logs and take them to the Fairfield Mill.
Fairfield of Neil’s childhood was largely rural. There were many dairy farms and orchards in the area. Most people owned backyard fowl, and the neighbours always helped each other. Neil reflects that throughout his childhood no goods were wasted. Clothes were passed around and produce bags were often refashioned into clothes. He remembers many local families, including the Taylors, Quinns, Jamesons, Lawrences, Foxes, Collins, Dunnons and Willoughbys. He also knew local policemen.
Neil went to Guildford Primary School. After primary school Neil went to Parramatta Intermediate School. Following this, his father wanted him to go to high school, but Neil refused and instead joined the family logging business. Neil has worked in the timber industry for 50 years. In 1955 Neil was called into the National Service. He spent two years on active duty and a further five years on reserve. He was grateful that he did his service before the Vietnam War.
Neil has a son and daughter. His son is an electrical mechanic and his daughter works for the SES.
Neil has seen the Fairfield district change overtime. It has increased in size (population) over his life. Neil welcomed migrants from foreign countries at first but later he became more critical of multiculturalism.
Neil Raymond Pillidge Oral History (1935 - 2017). Fairfield City Heritage Collection, accessed 10/08/2026, https://heritagecollection.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/nodes/view/3003
