Nick Harvey's life began on August 17, 1955, in Gosford, a coastal city located approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Sydney, in the state of New South Wales, Australia.
His father, with ancestry tracing back to Cornwall, a region in the southwest of England known for its rich mining heritage, had migrated to Australia in search of opportunities in the gold mining industry, specifically at Hill End, a historic mining town in central New South Wales.
Harvey's mother, on the other hand, was born on a sheep property situated in the same region of Hill End, which is renowned for its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and rich agricultural heritage.
This unique blend of cultural influences, shaped by his parents' diverse backgrounds and experiences, would ultimately play a significant role in shaping the life and career of Nick Harvey.
Nick's earliest years were marked by a significant life change, as his parents decided to go their separate ways, resulting in his relocation to live with his grandparents on a farm that held immense sentimental value, as it was the same land where his mother had spent her formative years, thereby fostering a profound appreciation for the natural world, the thrill of the hunt, and the serenity of fishing.
The farm, a tranquil and picturesque setting, became a haven for Nick, where he was surrounded by the gentle rhythms of rural life. His grandparents, possessing a deep love for music, would often serenade the evenings with melodious tunes, their voices and instruments blending harmoniously to create a symphony of sound. The piano, ukulele, and fiddle would join in, filling the air with a rich tapestry of music, as Nick's grandparents skillfully wove a sonic narrative that would forever be etched in his memory.
During that particular era, Nick's evenings were marked by a unique blend of quiet contemplation and creative expression. The absence of television meant that he had to rely on alternative forms of entertainment, and as such, he developed a passion for reading, often losing himself in the pages of a good book. In addition, Nick's evenings were filled with the sweet sounds of his own singing voice, as he would belt out his favorite tunes with gusto. Furthermore, he made a valiant attempt to master the art of playing the guitar, dedicating countless hours to practicing and perfecting his skills.
However, it was not just Nick's individual pursuits that brought him joy during this time. Every week, he would gather with his loved ones around the wireless, a precursor to the modern-day radio, to listen to the Country music hour. This popular program featured a diverse range of artists, both from Australia and the United States, and it was a beloved institution that brought the family together in a shared love of music.
Nick's educational journey began with a series of primary schools, only to eventually transition to Echuca Technical college in Victoria, a location his mother had chosen to settle in following her remarriage.
As he navigated this new environment, Nick struggled to find his footing, frequently finding himself the victim of theft, with his lunch money and other valuables being repeatedly stolen from him.
At the tender age of 14 and a half, Nick had reached his breaking point, and the prospect of continuing his education no longer held any appeal for him. He made the difficult decision to leave school behind, opting instead to secure a job as a roustabout in the sheep shearing sheds.
This new career path allowed Nick to indulge in a range of activities that would shape his identity and define his early adult years. He threw himself into the world of boxing, developing a passion for the sport that would stay with him for years to come.
In addition to his newfound love of boxing, Nick also developed a taste for the finer things in life, including drinking and chasing women. These vices would become an integral part of his social circle and would play a significant role in shaping his personality and worldview.
Nick's life took an unexpected turn following a heated altercation that ultimately led to his enlistment in the Australian Army. This pivotal event sent him to Vietnam, where he would spend time serving his country and gaining valuable life experience.
After his military service came to a close, Nick set his sights on the United Kingdom, where he would embark on a new adventure. In a humorous anecdote, he has been known to recall the lengths he went to in order to gain acceptance into the renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). According to Nick, he "put on the greatest act and told the biggest lies ever told" in an effort to secure a spot at this prestigious institution.
