A plasterer, Mr Blake was well-known across the tight-knit community.

Several people The Courier spoke to described him as a "wonderful person", and said the news of his death was "a shock".

Mr Blake was closely involved in the Creswick Football Netball Club and Creswick Cricket Club, and had several relatives in the town.

Dozens of comments on social media paid respect to 'Tender', and his family and friends.

"Lost for words. Creswick won't be the same with you Dave. Rest easy," wrote one person.

Dave Coxall, a family friend who coached him in footy and cricket, had known him "since he was seven or eight".

"We've all been numb," he said.

"We were going to cancel cricket today, but we thought he'd want us to continue."

People were seen placing flowers outside the pub on Sunday afternoon.

UPDATE, 1.40PM: Police media has confirmed a 41-year-old man has been charged with manslaughter following the death of another man in Creswick early Sunday morning.

It's understood the accused man is also from Creswick.

The man is being held in custody and is expected to face Ballarat Magistrates' Court tomorrow.

UPDATE, 10.50AM: The town of Creswick is in shock following the death of a well-known local.

The Farmers Arms Hotel remains cordoned off as investigators clear the scene following the death of the 39-year-old .

The local tradesman, who The Courier has chosen not to name at this point, died about 2am this morning after an alleged fight at the hotel.

Another man handed himself into the police station about 6.30am. He is still being interviewed by police.

One Creswick local who spoke to The Courier was still in disbelief, describing him as a "happy, jovial guy".

"I said hello to him on the street last week," the man said.

Other people have shared their grief on Facebook.

"A great man who was loved by many. Rest peacefully," posted Coll Thompson.

"What terrible news for our local community. My thoughts to all the sad people who will be affected by this," wrote Melinda Bray.

The pub remains cordoned off by police and a crime scene remains.

The man's body was removed from the scene just after 9.30am.

INITIAL STORY: A man is currently in custody following the death of another man at a hotel in Creswick last night.

Homicide Squad detectives believe an altercation between two men took place at the Albert Street hotel just before 2am on Sunday.

A 39-year-old Creswick man died at the scene.

A man presented at a local police station about 6.30am and is expected to be interviewed later this morning.

The investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information is urged to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

MORE TO COME

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