Bert Newton state funeral details revealed

New details have been revealed about the state funeral for beloved Australian entertainment icon Bert Newton.

Legendary TV identity Bert Newton will be farewelled at a state funeral in Melbourne next Friday, November 12.

The service will be shown on screens at Federation Square with the 10am service at St Patrick’s Cathedral in East Melbourne to be limited to only family, friends and colleagues because of Covid-19 restrictions.

The Victorian government confirmed the funeral details in a statement it released on Friday afternoon.

“A fixture of Australian television, Bert brought his wit and energy into our homes over many decades. He was an entertainer in every sense of the word and this send-off will honour his legacy,” a spokesman said.

“Family, friends and colleagues will be able to attend the State Funeral Service to celebrate Bert’s life and reflect on his contribution to the entertainment industry, numerous charities and the state of Victoria.”

Bert Newton, who died aged 83 on November 1 after a long health battle, is survived by his wife Patti, their daughter and six grandchildren. Picture: Sam Tabone/Getty Images

Newton died aged 83 on November 1 after a long health battle.

Premier Daniel Andrews spoke to his widow Patti and offered the state funeral.

The entertainment icon’s death sparked an outpouring of grief from the community.

Bert and Patti have six grandchildren, the children of daughter Lauren and her husband Matt Welsh.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes can be made in the form of contributions to Villa Maria Catholic Homes’ O’Neill House in Prahran.

O’Neill House provides temporary respite care and specialist end-of-life care to support older people and their families.