Jack Newton Classic returning to Hunter Valley

With Jack Newton passing away in April this year, the future of the annual charity tournament that bears his name was in serious doubt.

However, it seems his enormous golfing legacy will live on with news that the Newton family will be staging the Jack Newton Celebrity Classic from December 19-21 at Crowne Plaza in the Hunter Valley – its home since 2016.

Jack Newton (Credit: Anthony Powter)

This time it will be Newton’s son and former Newcastle Knights NRL star, Clint Newton, who will take the reins of the event which first debuted in 1979 at the aTewantin Noosa Golf Club on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast .

“It is our first time holding ‘The Jack’ without Dad, but we know his memory and legacy will live on,” said Newton.

“Our parents’ passion and vision for this premier event have been unwavering over the past 43 years, and we will honour his memory this year. I have no doubt Dad would expect us to come together for plenty of laughs, stories and one or two drinks.”

The tournament has attracted everyone from prime ministers including tournament regular, Bob Hawke, to Olympic champions, movie stars, comedians and footballers.

But it’s not just all about fun and games. The tournament has raised over $7 million for Diabetes Australia and Jack Newton Junior Golf, which has provided a pathway for young Australian golfers for almost four decades.