It was also the year one of South West Rocks' oldest living residents was born.

Tommy Tyne, born September 3 1920, has seen it all.

He ran the first high school bus service from Kempsey to SWR in 1938, has lived all over Australia and served in WWII and participated in the allied landing at Balikpapan in Borneo.

Tommy still drives a vehicle and plays golf.

He has two sons and a daughter, Michael, David and Carol - his wife Hazel, whom he was married to for 72 years passed away a few years ago and it's said there was never any arguments - none that Tommy won anyway.

The rumour going round at SWR Country Club on Wednesday was he hit a drive about 320 metres, with the wind of course.

The old saying goes, 'you never let the truth get in the way of a good story', but Tommy is a marvel!

His Wednesday round at SWR golf club was his last as a 99 year old, bringing up his century with an array of people watching on and celebrating his milestone achievement at the afternoon's presentation.

"It's been a great thing to be a member, when I get out there it's always a great day for me," Tommy said.

"I'll keep on doing what I'm doing and I'll be glad when this is all over so I can get on with the next century."

Representatives of NSW Veteran golfers and RSL Sub Branch were in attendance at the presentation to present Tyne with gifts, congratulations and some kind words.

Whilst golf is a passion, one Tommy's biggest interests is arts, winning various awards for his work.

He first picked up the paint brush in Noemfoor Island where American service ladies ran painting lessons.

"I learned how to mix oils etc., every Friday, we used to paint postcards," Tommy told the Argus in 2013.

He won prizes for his painting of the Gallipoli landing.

"He's had a great life, backed fast horses, gone well at Keno and played great golf," Vets President John Burge said.

Tommy's advice for golf is simple.

"Learn to hit the ball straight and don't go into the trees," he told the Argus.

"Take your time and it'll come to you."

His life advice is just as uncomplicated.

"I don't drink beer, I don't smoke and I do lots of exercise," he said.

"It's all about being healthy and makes your body feel well."

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Macleay Argus. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.