Fred Newton

Background

Newton was born in Maryborough to Francis and Ada Laura Newton (née Davey).

Career

As state wards were deemed to owe a debt to the state Newton was sent work on a dairy farm in Pittsworth. This farm was eventually sold and he was relocated to a farm in Maryvale. When he turned 18 he returned to his family in Maryborough.

In 1946, Newton was working in a bacon factory when due to a strike he left his job and became a builder"s labourer.

This led to a long association with the Building Workers Industrial Union and he served the role of state organiser from 1953 till 1960.

Achievements

• Newton won the newly created seat of Belmont in 1960 and remained as its member till his defeat at the 1974 state election.

Membership

He was Deputy Leader of the Opposition for 5 months from July 1974 and a member of the Parliamentary Labor Party Executive from 1966 to 1974.