Mr Grant and Mr Roebuck accompanied member for Orange Philip Donato to RPT Health Group on Friday to interrupt the weekly workout of the soon-to-be centenarian.

The trio presented Mr Haley with tickets to an upcoming Wallabies test match against Ireland, a rugby jersey and – ‘because we heard you don’t mind a glass’ – a bottle of red wine, ahead of his 100^th birthday on Thursday.

“I like my red wine,” said Mr Haley, who despite being 99 years old had driven himself to his weekly workout.

“I went for a check up with my doctor last week and he said my eyesight is improving,” he added, providing enough evidence to all present that a celebratory glass is required this weekend.

Mr Haley said his sessions with his group at RPT Health were one of the highlights of his week.

“We hop on the machines and probably talk too much,” said Mr Haley.

A resident of Orange for more than 30 years, Mr Haley had been a farmer in the region before moving to town following his retirement.

While he didn’t have a wild party planned for his birthday next week, Mr Haley said he was looking forward to spending the day with his gym buddies and his family.

Mr Donato said participating in events like these are one of the most satisfying aspects of his job.

“The older members of our communities have contributed so much over such a long time,” said Mr Donato. 

“It’s great to get to meet them, say thanks and hear their stories.”