Leeton's Bruno Zucco celebrates 100th birthday

Mr Zucco celebrated his 100th birthday on January 27 and will enjoy further festivities this weekend with family and friends.

During World War II he likely thought he would never see the day where he lived to be 100-years-old, but that is exactly what has happened.

Mr Zucco was in the Italian Army during WWII along with his brothers where he spent time in North Africa.

While there's no doubting this was a tough and grueling time, more tragedy was to unfold when he returned home to Italy after the war to discover his mother had passed away.

However, like many during that time, Mr Zucco faced that challenge head on and got on with life, which is what led him to live in Leeton.

Mr Zucco travelled to Australia in 1951 and in 1955 he arrived in Leeton.

Having spent time in the city working, he heard about a place called Leeton from some friends and how workers were needed to grow vegetables, so he set out for the small town he has called home ever since.

"In 1955 dad went home to Italy, which is where we still were with our mum and said we would be moving to Australia, but he ended up in Leeton by accident," Bruno's son Joe Zucco said.

"In 1958 dad bought a house and we came out in 1959 with our mum.

"I was eight, my sister Ange was 10, my sister Teresa was 11 and our eldest sister (the late) Concetta was 19."

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Mr Zucco worked hard over the years on the farm to provide for and look after his family.

He originally started out growing vegetables and stone fruit before moving into citrus.

With family always remaining a big priority, Mr Zucco has watched his own children go on to have their own families.

He has 10 grand children, 16 great grand children and 11 great, great grandchildren. Over the years he has also made many great and lifelong friends in Leeton shire.

"He has a lot of good memories and stories," Joe said.

Apart from his love of family and working the farm, Mr Zucco also enjoyed many trips overseas during his time.

This of course included several visits back to Italy to visit his brothers and family, as well as to various other countries.

His last big trip was in 2006 where he spent 10 days in New York City, another 10 days in Canada and 10 days in Italy.

"Dad's motto was always to go and see (the world) while still in good condition ... he really loved travelling," Joe said.

Mr Zucco will celebrate his 100^th birthday at a special dinner this weekend with family and friends.