A week-long search finally ended in celebration as a NSW man has stepped forward to claim a jaw-dropping $15 million Oz Lotto jackpot, dramatically transforming an ordinary morning into a moment of life-changing fortune.
The Bathurst resident was the sole holder of the division one winning ticket in the Oz Lotto draw 1597, dated Tuesday, 24 September 2024, securing the entire jackpot amount.
With the ticket unregistered, lottery officials initiated a search last week for the elusive winner, eagerly waiting for them to realize their newfound wealth and come forward to claim their prize.
“I’m still in shock! the winning man cheered.
“Fifteen million dollars is a lot to wrap my head around.
“It’s not the sort of money I’ve ever seen in my life.
“When I checked my ticket, I thought I was going to have a heart attack.
“I seriously didn’t know what to do at that moment. All I remember was that my spine was tingling.
“Ever since then, it’s been a whirlwind of emotions.”
With $15 million about to change his life forever, the newly minted multi-millionaire shared the prize would only be used to help others.
“It feels great to know that I will be able to help my family,” he shared.
“All I care to do is look after my family and make sure they’re happy and healthy.
“This is a life-changing moment!”
His division one winning entry was purchased at Wilberforce Newsagency, Shop 6, Wilberforce Shopping Centre, Cnr King Road & William Street, Wilberforce.
Wilberforce Newsagency owner Allison Griffith shared the outlet had been buzzing with excitement ever since they found out they’d sold a division one winning ticket worth $15 million.
“We’ve had the newsagency for 17 years now and this is our first major win,” she said.
“It feels very special to know that we sold someone a life-changing ticket.
“Our customers and local community are over the moon to hear someone from the region has won such a big prize.
“Congratulations to our winner and we hope you enjoy your prize!”
The winning numbers in Oz Lotto draw 1597 on Tuesday 24 September 2024 were 33, 35, 15, 13, 30, 4 and 32 while the supplementary numbers were 20, 27 and 45.
Across Australia, there was one division one winning entry in Oz Lotto draw 1597 – New South Wales claiming the win.