Chris was born in Melbourne, Australia and at the age of 7 won a Choir Scholarship to attend Christchurch Grammar School, South Yarra under the tutorship of the well respected choirmaster Leonard Fullard. During his three years at Christchurch, and in addition to his Choir obligations, he sang at weddings and numerous other festivals, frequently taking a solo part. Chris' family moved to Fiji in early 1967 where he attended school for a short time at Suva Grammar and then Drasa Avenue in Lautoka. Chris was the youngest member of a multi-cultural choir while living in Fiji.
In late 1968 Chris left to join his younger brother, Jay, to board at The Southport School on Queensland's Gold Coast. They remained there for six years flying home to Fiji (which of course they absolutely loved) for most holidays. Chris was involved with the school choir, rock operas, acting and the school rock band "Mintwood Green" (formed by his schoolmate Greg Shaw). "Mintwood Green" played at a number of dances with all girl schools St. Hildas and Sommerville House. Most members of the final line-up of "Mintwood Green" went on to become the first line-up of the well known "Skintite".
