My Career Since 1914

A Life of Grit, Grace, and Gumption – The Remarkable Journey of Mervyn W.E. Carter

From the dusty paddocks of Western Australia to the blood-soaked trenches of Gallipoli and the Western Front, My Career Since 1914 is the extraordinary true story of Mervyn William Earle Carter, soldier, leather craftsman, farmer, and family man.

Told in his own words and lovingly preserved by his descendants, this biography was initiated and shaped by the devoted efforts of Merve’s friend Stan, son of Merve’s lifelong mate, Bert Gratte. Through Stan’s eyes and heartfelt narration by Merve’s grandsons, the story gains a deeply personal dimension, capturing not only Merve’s voice but also the enduring bonds of friendship that defined his life.

Enlisting underage and surviving the horrors of World War I, Merve’s journey took a dramatic turn when a misstep led to a court martial and a year of brutal military imprisonment. Yet, through it all, he remained defiant, resourceful, and deeply human.

This biography weaves together Merve’s vivid recollections, family anecdotes, and historical context to paint a portrait of a man who never stopped fighting for dignity, for redemption, and for a life well lived. From pioneering the Wheatbelt to crafting exquisite leatherwork in retirement, Merve’s story is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Australian battler.