Russell Stern has had a long association with the Philatelic Society of New South Wales, serving as Secretary for 21 years and also a period as President.  He was instrumental in the formation of the Philatelic Association of New South Wales and was also a foundation member of the New South Wales Stamp Council, serving on both executives from their inception.  In the mid 1970s he organised the search for a suitable home for philately in Sydney, which eventually resulted in the purchase of the property which became Philas House.

From 1977 to 1981 Russell was secretary of the Australian Philatelic Federation.  It was during this period that a financial base for national philately was organised and a programme of national exhibitions developed.

Russell's main exhibiting area is Australian Forces mail, he also has traditional collections of Bahamas and Bermuda.  He has exhibited at State, National and International Exhibitions and was a judge at Sydpex '88.  He  also conducted a number of courses for exhibitors before Sydpex '88 aimed at improving the standard of entries.

From 1991, Russell has been editor of the NSW Philatelist, during this period he has overseen the implementation of computerised publishing.