HARVEY, A. E., Rev (1862-1939)
Assembly memorial minute, 1939
Mr. Harvey was born at The Leigh on April 24, 1862. His education was continued at the Ballarat School of Arts, where he later became a teacher of painting. It was an Anglican minister, whom he had helped in elocution, who persuaded Mr. Harvey to enter the ministry. Many Home Mission Stations had the benefit of his alert and energetic enthusiasm. They include those of Mildura, Chiltern, Berwick, Outtrim, Scarsdale and Lang Lang. He carried on the heavy work at Lang Lang during his theological course. When he had completed his course at the Ormond Theological Hall in 1911, Mr. Harvey went to Newstead as an exit-student.
His other charges in succession were: Cobram, Collingwood (1916-1919), Mansfield (1919-1924), Eaglehawk, and Morwell. Ill-health compelled him to retire from active work, and he returned to Mansfield, where, after lying in hospital for eighteen months, he passed away on January 18, 1939.
Mr. Harvey had many striking gifts. His was a genial, bright, lovable personality. Keenly devoted to music, he took a special interest in making the service of praise hearty and beautiful. As a pastor he was tireless, doing most of his work on foot. He was an ardent temperance worker, and the memory of his splendid work at Mildura is perpetuated by the Recreation Club Building, which was erected in 1922 at a cost of £10, 000. This Club was founded by Mr. Harvey in 1903, his object being to provide healthful recreation for fruit-block workers and others, away from the influence of the licensed Clubs. He was invited back to open the splendid edifice for which his vision was responsible. During his Home Mission work he was zealous to the extent of sacrificing his time for study. He began his course later in life than most men, but through it all, and through all his ministry both before and after, he showed an invincible courage, which sprang from a living faith in Christ.
To his widow and family the Assembly tenders its deep sympathy.