More than 600 golfers and their supporters are due to converge on Port Stephens this week for the annual championship, which will be held at Nelson Bay Golf Club, Horizons Golf Resort, Pacific Dunes and Muree Golf Club between November 12 and 16.

Tournament director Dave Flatt said he was “thrilled” with the support he has received from the Port’s business community, particularly naming rights sponsor Regis Aged Care.

“A number of restaurants and tour operators have also provided vouchers and discounts for the visiting golfers,” Flatt said.

The championship is an annual event that rotates around the states and territories with a history going back to 1990.

In 2014 the NSW Veterans Golf Association appointed a group of golfers from Port Stephens to run the tournament.

Whilst there is always keen competition amongst low handicap golfers for the overall national scratch champion, the event is also contested in a number of handicapped grades and divisions, giving golfers of all levels a chance to share in prizes.

The 2018 event will be open to male veteran golfers aged over 55 and ladies over 50.

On Sunday, November 11, 565 golfers and 86 non-playing partners are expected to check in at Nelson Bay Golf Club for the championship.

All the action will get underway on Monday with the pairs competition beginning at the Nelson Bay, Salamander Bay, Medowie and Raymond Terrace golf clubs.

The individual championship events will be held on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Participants will have a well-earned day off on Wednesday, giving them the opportunity to enjoy all the sights and experiences Port Stephens has to offer.

The event culminates on Friday with the gala presentation dinner for 670 guests at Wests Nelson Bay Diggers Club.