Gerry Harvey: The Billionaire Business Magnate

Overview

Gerry Harvey is an Australian entrepreneur, businessman, and chairman of Harvey Norman Holdings, one of Australia’s largest retail chains for furniture, electrical appliances, and computers. He is known for his entrepreneurial skills and has established himself as one of the wealthiest businessmen in Australia. Harvey has been involved in various business ventures and investments, including Thoroughbred horse racing and breeding.

Early Life and Education

Gerry Harvey was born on September 18, 1939, in Richmond, Victoria, Australia. His parents were farmers, and he spent his early childhood on their farm in New South Wales. Harvey completed his education at the age of 15 and started working as a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman. He later moved to Sydney and joined a retail company selling home appliances.

Career and Achievements

In 1961, Harvey, along with his business partner, Ian Norman, started their first shop selling electrical appliances in Sydney. The store was called Norman Ross, which later became Harvey Norman Holdings, one of Australia’s largest retail chains. The company offers a wide range of products, including furniture, electrical appliances, and computers. The company has over 200 stores in Australia and operates in New Zealand, Slovenia, Croatia, Ireland, and Singapore.

Apart from his retail business, Harvey is also involved in Thoroughbred horse racing and breeding. He owns several racing horses, and his horse, Bounding, won the Railway Stakes in 2015. Harvey also owns and operates several cattle farms across Australia.

In 2011, Harvey was appointed as the Chairman of the Reserve Bank of Australia Board, but he later resigned in 2012 due to his commitments at Harvey Norman.

Personal Life

Harvey has been married twice and has six children. He is known for his philanthropic activities and has donated millions of dollars to various charitable organizations. In 2019, he donated $5 million to help the victims of the Australian bushfires. Harvey is also a keen car collector and has an impressive collection of classic and luxury cars.

Profile