Born in Tamworth, Richard attended Tamworth Public School and then Tamworth High School prior to attaining his Bachelor of Arts (majoring in Pure Mathematics) and Bachelor of Laws at University of New South Wales.

After working as a solicitor in Sydney following qualifying as a solicitor, Richard returned to Tamworth in 1983 and commenced employment with Newman & Pengilley. Richard became a partner in 1989 and has been sole Principal since 1996.

In his spare time, Richard enjoys spending time with his family, including his many grandchildren. He is a long-suffering Manly Sea Eagles supporter, and immune to the jibes this information frequently provokes. He has also played guitar since aged 14, and actively participates in Tamworth Musical Society productions - about 22 shows so far, including recently "Seussical, the Musical", "Mary Poppins", "Wicked", "Jesus Christ, Superstar" and "Kinky Boots".

Richard is also a proud member of Tamworth's youngest Rotary club - Rotary Club of Tamworth Sunrise - which was chartered in 2009 and meets each Friday morning. He was previously the solicitor coach of the Oxley High School Mock Trial Team for over 2 decades, having successfully coached the students to become state champions in 2007.