It was a typical moment of joyful spontaneity from the evergreen centenarian. 

Ron Polson sang You Make Me Feel So Young, while the  impromptu dance partners delighted those assembled for the monthly meeting of the National Senior Association Port Macquarie Branch.

“People often ask me what the secret is to reach 100,” Mr Dawson said.

“I tell them it’s quite simple: Just keep on breathing.”

The singing was just one highlight in a truly memorable celebration for the high-spirited stalwart.

Following the formal meeting of the association the room split into groups for a range of party games.

Then Keith’s friends and family were told the interesting tale of a life well lived.

Keith Sorrell Dawson was born in New Zealand in 1913. 

On 24 May, 1937, he set off with a friend from Mechanic’s Bay in Auckland in a 26 foot E class keeler called Roxane.

Their destination was Sydney, and they became the first to ever sail the distance in a vessel of that size.

Further adventures awaited when the young New Zealander arrived in Australia.

On the day he arrived in Sydney Harbour there was a dance being held at one of the clubs.

That night he met a striking redhead called Betty Addison. 

The couple were soon married and raised three daughters named Denise, Ann and Kathleen.

The family lived in Sydney for many years where Keith, who was trained as a carpenter, worked a number of different jobs.

“I did a lot of different kinds of work - not because I got sacked- but because I’ve always liked change,” Mr Dawson explained. 

The highly skilled worker was engaged on reparing ships after the Second World War.

His next job was a vastly different from the shipyards.

“I was offered a job in The Spastic Centre, in Mosman,” Mr Dawson said.

“I worked there for many years in the workshop and doing maintenance.

“The kids would see me in the hall, and start shaping up to me, wanting to have a bit of a laugh with me.”

He retired in 1971, and the couple relocated to Port Macquarie in 1976.

There was little chance for rest, with Mr Dawson observing a morning daily routine of rising at 5am for a walk and swim in the ocean.

Sadly, after 73 years of marriage, Mrs Dawson passed away in June 2011. 

The birthday boy paid tribute to the women in his life during yesterday’s celebration.

“I’ve had a wonderful life, and I’ve had three daughters and a wonderful wife who’ve looked after me over the years,” Mr Dawson said.

“I really wouldn’t change it (my life) with anyone.”

Mr Dawson keeps busy through a range of sporting pursuits.

He has been an avid bowls and snooker player for many years, and has recently turned his hand to table tennis.

“I’m not going anywhere for a while,” he said.

“I bought a new car a couple of years ago, and I’ve got to wear that out yet.”