Lewis will line up alongside training partner and England Commonwealth Games silver medallist Melanie Purkiss and local hope Trish Greaves in the women's 400 metres.

The classic, which will be held at the Hunter Sports Centre on February 6, is the first big-time athletics meeting in Newcastle since an A-series grand prix in 2002.

Lewis, whose mother, Carolyn Wright, was born in Newcastle, won the 400m in 2002 and finished second to Jamaican Sandie Richards the year before.

"Having Tamsyn here will give the meet a real buzz," meet co-ordinator and Commonwealth Games marathon runner Scott Westcott said.

"We have quite a few athletes who went to the world championships last year of which Tamsyn is definitely the most well-known.

"She will drag out the 400-metre field and hopefully bring a few people in through the gate."

After winning the 800m indoor world championship in 2008, Lewis switched focus to the 400m hurdles and is in her second season of the discipline.

A multiple Commonwealth Games medallist, she was unlucky to miss out on selection for the world championships in her new event last year.

The Hunter Track Classic is at the start of a hectic season which culminates with national championships and Commonwealth Games selection trials in April.

"There is an event in Canberra, the Australia Cup, the week before, but this is right at the beginning of the business end of the season," Westcott said.

"The attraction of our meet is that it won't have the pressure of a national championships.

"Athletes can come, enjoy some country hospitality hopefully we will generate a great atmosphere and be able to qualify for the Commonwealth Games."

To be eligible for Delhi Games selection athletes must record a qualifying performance and finish in the top three at the national championships in Perth from April 16 to 18.

"This event gives them a bit of time to relax and get a qualifier," Westcott said.

"Late in the season everyone gets a bit nervy when they are still trying to get the time or the distance."

Apart from the 400m, the women's 1500m, men's 800m, 3km and men and women high jump have attracted national representatives.