‘We’ve lost an icon’: Community shocked by horror Warwick crash
A respected community leader and former “world-class” sportsman is being mourned after being killed when the Porsche he was driving was involved in a horror three-car crash. The town’s deputy mayor paid his respects, saying the death of the “unsung hero” was a “big blow” for the region
QLD News
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Respected Warwick community leader Greg Newey is being remembered by friends and loved ones, after being killed in a horror crash in the town’s CBD on Monday.
The region is still reeling following news of the horror three-car collision, which claimed the life of the beloved 76-year-old.
Mr Newey’s wife, Beth, was flown to hospital in Brisbane with serious arm injuries.
Close mates have reflected on the devastating loss of a “community icon”.
Deputy Mayor Ross Bartley has spent 49 years shooting with the international talent.
He said his friend was a world-class clay target shooter who ranked third in Australia before the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
“We’ve lost an icon,” Mr Bartley said simply.
“This is a big blow. We’re all getting old, but we thought we would get old together.
“He contributed so much to the community. He was one of our unsung heroes.”
Moving to Warwick in the 1970s, Mr Newey bought Lees’ Newsagency, which would later become Hynes Newsagency, before purchasing Warwick Outdoor and Sports.
As a prominent businessman, Mr Newey soon found himself in roles such as the Chamber of Commerce president and chairman of the Warwick Tourism and Events board, and heavily involved in the Warwick RSL and Warwick Fire Brigade board.
A man who “was always doing something”, he will be remembered by many for his continual efforts to improve a town he loved.
Fellow shooter John Loy said he had known the “nature’s gentleman” since he was seven years old, and had been lucky enough to witness his passion first-hand.
“He would take me coaching clinics in Brisbane and the coast. He really had a passion for helping younger people,” Mr Loy said.
“It wasn’t just shooting. He had a vision for Warwick and was very passionate about making it great.”
One of his biggest achievements included cementing the placement of the Warwick TAFE.
But Mr Newey’s passion for sports didn’t stop at shooting.
Also an avid MG enthusiast, Mr Newey raced in the Leyburn Sprints, was a staple of the Jumpers and Jazz car display and even wrote a Warwick Daily News Car Guide column.
But indisputably, his first and foremost passion was his loved ones.
“He adored his family,” Mr Bartley said.
“He was only just telling me about his granddaughter getting married. He was so proud to watch his children grow and have children of their own.
“He was a family man. He always had time for his children and grandchildren,” Mr Loy said.
“It just doesn’t seem right.”
Friend Colin O’Brien said the loss had left his own parents heartbroken.
“He was a kind, respectful and respected man from a golden generation,” he said.
“He supported my life dream and for that I am eternally grateful.
“He was close friends with my parents and they shared lunch last Wednesday. My folks are heartbroken.”
According to a police, initial investigations suggest a Ford Falcon ute was travelling through the Myall Ave and Wood St when struck Mr Newey’s Porsche travelling along Wood St yesterday.
The driver of the ute was hospitalised and was helping police with their inquiries.
No charges have been laid.