ARARAT - Eric 'Whirely' Wilson recently celebrated his 90th birthday at the Ararat Lions Club den with a large number of family and friends present.
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Born on March 21, 1924 in Camperdown, Eric is one of seven children to Christopher and Elsie Wilson. Lillian (Dec), Phyllis (Dec), Edward, Alexander (Dec), Iris (Dec), Eric and Verna.
Members of Eric's family came from across the state to be with him on the special occasion, with guests travelling from Melbourne, Ballarat, Kerang, Bachus Marsh, Hoppers Crossing and the Ararat district.
Eric was very proud to see nearly all of his eight children, 26 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren in attendance, with the number guests attending totalling about 120.
One of the many highlights on the day was a special appearance of the 'Southern Cloud' - Eric's historical novelty vehicle, a 1927 Dodge Utility.
This vehicle has appeared on numerous occasions over the last 60 years in local and regional processions.
Guests were thrilled to view a collection of more than 1000 historical family images, highlighting many of the family's achievements, outings and close personal friends.
These images were transferred from black and white prints, colour prints and slides on to disk by his son Mathew and grandchild Chelsea.
An 'Open House' was followed by a family lunch and dinner.
Eric and Pat thanked their family for arranging such a wonderful day.