He played for South Sydney in the NSWRL competition during the club's second golden era where they won 5 premierships from 7 grand final appearances between 1949 and 1955.
The following season, Spillane made 16 appearances as Souths claimed the minor premiership and reached the grand final against St George.
Spillane returned in 1951 playing 9 games as Souths claimed another minor premiership and reached the grand final against Manly-Warringah who were appearing in the first decider.
Spillane played at five-eighth in the match as Souths defeated Manly by a then record score of 42–14 at the Sydney Sports Ground.
The match was remembered due to its controversy with claims the referee George Bishop had put a big wager on Wests winning the game.