Spillane made his first grade debut for Western Suburbs against St. George in Round 5 1926 at Earl Park, Arncliffe, scoring a try in a 17–12 victory.
Spillane earned his first representative honour in 1927, being selected to play for Metropolis, the earlier version of the NSW City team.
In 1930, Spillane was part of the Wests side which won the minor premiership and reached the 1930 NSWRL grand final against St George.
Spillane played at second-row in the match as Wests were defeated 14-6 by St George at the Sydney Sports Ground.
Due to the rules at the time, Western Suburbs were allowed to challenge St George for a rematch as they had finished as minor premiers.