Van Raalte shared the winner's spoils with Andrew Campbell, Jason King and Brendan Smith at the Merewether Pro-Am last Tuesday.

"David's in good form. He's away at the moment representing Morisset at the PGA Professionals Championship national final at Hamilton Island," Morisset Golf Club head professional David Stretton said.

Veteran Peter O'Malley heads an impressive list of 52 professionals who will contest the Morisset title.

Among the other local hopes are Toukley and Magenta Shores member Dimi Papadatos who claimed his first professional victory at the New Zealand Open, at Millbrook Resort, Queenstown, in March.

Leading Newcastle duo Leigh McKechnie and Aaron Townsend will also tee it up.

The three-day pro-am begins tomorrow with sponsor's day, featuring 160 players in a four-ball format, followed about 2pm by the professionals' shootout, approach shots to the 18th for nearest-the-pin cash.

The shootout is a highlight of the weekend, and typically attracts a large gallery.

Saturday and Sunday will see the pros competing for $20,000 in prizemoney.

"Spectators are most welcome, and there are still a few playing spots available," Stretton said.