TRIBUTES flowed for Charles Lonergan at his 100th birthday party on Friday, which was fittingly held at Morisset Country Club, a building he helped to construct.
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Mr Lonergan was praised for his "strong interest in the community".
He was a long-term president of the South Lake Macquarie RSL Sub-Branch, and also served as president of Morisset Country Club for 14 years.
A builder, Mr Lonergan worked on many local landmarks, some of which are still standing today, including the Rathmines hangars, Morisset Masonic Hall, and the original Morisset Post Office.
Morisset Country Club chief executive Ian Taylor presented Mr Lonergan with a medal to commemorate his contribution to the community.
State MP Greg Piper congratulated Mr Lonergan on reaching triple figures and passed on the personal well wishes of the Prime Minister and the NSW Premier.
Local historian Beryl Mullard said during his life time Mr Lonergan had seen Einstein's theories published, worldwide depression, two world wars, the advent of television, the formation of the United Nations and man's first footsteps on the moon.
When presented with the medal, Mr Lonergan displayed the down-to-earth humour he is known for.
"I guess living to a hundred is like getting a century in cricket," he said.
Friday's party was one of six recent functions at which Mr Lonergan has been the guest of honour.
His birthday was July 13.
