The brothers grew up in Bexley, New South Wales and came through the St George junior ranks.

Gilbert's career was curtailed by World War II and he only played two full first grade seasons with St. George in 1941 and 1946.

Gilbert won a premiership with St. George, playing centre in the team that defeated Eastern Suburbs in the 1941 Grand Final.

[2] He survived the war, and after his discharge in April 1946, Gilbert resumed his playing career at St. George for the 1946 season, before retiring from Sydney first grade football.

[3] Gilbert died on 29 November 1998, and was cremated at Woronora Cemetery, Sutherland, New South Wales.