For years, a retired grandfather from Wentworth Point in New South Wales has played the same numbers. They aren’t random picks. They’re his family’s story: his mother’s date of birth, his own birthday on 23rd, and the numbers of places he’s called home over the years.
“I just use those same numbers predominantly and they’ve finally, finally paid off,” he said.
This week, those numbers ended up being just one number off from taking home the USA Power Lotto Division 1 jackpot. However, even with his single game, the 70 year old landed a Division 3 win worth $50,893.12.
The Phone Call He’d Always Wondered About
He admits he’d often wondered who would make the call if he ever won. Would it come from America? From somewhere in Australia?
“So now I know. Rachel from the Gold Coast rings up and tells you you’ve won,” he laughed.
The Gold Coast connection made it extra special. His mum and dad retired to the coast a few years ago, not far from where Rachel lives, and the two shared a quick chat about the area before getting back to the good news.
Before this, his biggest win was around $870, with the occasional smaller prize popping up in his inbox. “That’s just teasing” he joked.
Sharing His USA Power Lotto Win With the Family
When Rachel asked what he had planned, his first thought wasn’t for himself.
His wife has been driving the same car for 10 to 15 years, and every time he’s suggested an upgrade, the answer has been the same. “Now I guess we can,” he said. “So we’ll do that.”
His son and family are heading to England for Christmas to spend it with his daughter in law’s side of the family, and he’s planning to chip in towards their trip. His son was already due to visit the morning of the call, so he had some good news waiting for him.
A Thank You From the Heart
Of everything he shared on the call, one plan stood out.
Before retiring, he ran his own business, until two serious aortic operations changed things.
“I’ve had two of those,” he said. “So I’ve been lucky enough to survive.”
That gratitude has stayed with him, and he wants part of his win to go towards a donation to a heart charity, a way of thanking the people and research that helped him pull through. It’s a simple gesture, but one that says a lot about the kind of person he is.
As Rachel put it, it’s “something to warm your heart.”
And with a little encouragement from Rachel, he might even treat himself to one of those smartwatches that keeps track of your heart rate. “They seem to be all the rage these days.”
One Number Away From Division 1, and Still All Smiles
Being one number off the jackpot could be enough to make anyone sigh, but he took it in his stride.
“A win’s a win,” he said. “That $50,000 is good.”
From everyone at The Lottery Office, congratulations! We loved hearing how this win will be shared with the people who matter most, and we hope the new car, the Christmas trip and that smartwatch bring plenty of joy.
