A young Preston man in his 20s has claimed half of the $100 million Powerball jackpot after purchasing his very first Powerball ticket. T
he Greater Melbourne resident was one of two Division One winners nationally in Powerball Draw 1489 on Thursday, 28 November 2024, taking home a staggering $50 million. The other half was pocked by a QLD resident.
The newly minted multi-millionaire admitted to spending a sleepless night after checking his ticket and realizing his life had changed forever.
“It feels unreal! It’s unbelievable,” he cheered.
“I’m speechless right now. I can’t wrap my head around it.
“I’m hoping to have a good sleep tonight seeing as I barely got any last night after checking my ticket.
“It was impossible to sleep once I realised that I’d won $50 million!
“Funnily enough, this was my first time playing Powerball. I’ve played a few other lottery games in the past but never Powerball.
“When I saw the jackpot had reached $100 million, I thought I may as well buy a ticket.
“I woke up this morning feeling like nothing is going to hold me back anymore. It really feels like I could do whatever I want, like the world is my oyster.”
When asked how he might enjoy $50 million, the young man explained that he would continue to show up to work but would help his parents retire immediately.
“I love what I do at work, so I will absolutely keep working,” he shared.
“I want to make sure I keep my feet on the ground.
“I plan to share a lot of the prize with my parents and give back to them however I can. I’d love to retire them straight away.”
His winning entry was purchased at Northland Lotto & News, Shop C012, Northland Shopping Centre, 2-50 Murray Road, Preston.
Northland Lotto & News owner Elham Nourazari shared she was thrilled to sell her very first division one winning entry since taking over ownership of the outlet.
“Oh my gosh. That’s great news. I’m in shock!” she laughed.
“I can’t believe we’ve sold a ticket worth $50 million!
“I’m a new owner of Northland Lotto & News so this will be our first division one win since I've taken over ownership.
“I am so excited. We’ll be sure to decorate the store with plenty of balloons to celebrate and I’ll be letting all our customers know.
“Congratulations to our winner and thank you to all our customers for the ongoing support.”
