He got his wish.

The Eaglehawk Football clubrooms were filled on Sunday with the sounds of loved ones catching up.

Mr Toma's 101-year-old sister and his 99-year-old sister-in-law were among those celebrating with him.

The proud Eaglehawk man has called the community home almost all his life.

He was born in Sailors Gully, but moved to the Borough with his parents at the age of 13.

"It was more robust in the early days than it is now," Mr Toma said.

He said there were more shops around, though there were fewer people.

"It has always been a close-knit community," Mr Toma said.

He suspected that was what had given the community such character.

Remember when Mr Toma turned 100? We do. More on his story, here: Busy week for centenarian

His memories of Eaglehawk in years past included service clubs that 'got on wonderfully well', dances and trips to the pictures on a Saturday night.

Asked whether he'd ever imagined he'd make it to the grand age of 103, Mr Toma said: "I never thought of it."

"One day at a time" was his philosophy.

He was pleased to have the opportunity to mark the occasion with his family and friends, and grateful to those who organised the event.

"That's how people appreciate one another, I think," Mr Toma said.

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