Lottery 215: Two Lives Changed Forever

On a spring afternoon in 2018, Sam* decided to visit the Melbourne Show. He spent the day exploring the stalls and strolling from booth to booth. At some point during his visit, he also came across a booth for the Deaf Lottery.

“My parents were both hard of hearing, so contributing to an organisation that advocates for the Deaf community meant a lot to me. Every year since then I’ve chosen to give back.” 

Fast forward to 2024, and Deaf Lottery number 215 rewarded Sam for all those years of support. 

Just moments after his ticket was called, we dialled Sam’s number to let him know he’d won $800,000. 

“I was completely in shock. I never thought something like this could happen to us.” 

Sam couldn’t wait to share the news with his wife Julia, who was busy working at a hair salon. “She was halfway through colouring a client’s hair,” he laughed.  

“When I saw Sam’s call," said Julia, "I knew it had to be important because he never calls me at work, so I picked up immediately.”

The call lasted just 32 seconds. 

“Being the professional that I am, I didn’t say a word and rushed back to finish my client’s hair. That day was crazy—I couldn’t stop thinking about what this would mean for us.

I’ve spent every spare moment finding the best holiday destinations for the end of the year. I can’t wait—it’s such a huge deal for us!”

Initially, they had their sights set on a trip to New York. But after just coming out of winter, the appeal of a tropical retreat for New Year’s Eve was irresistible.  “I work 14 hours a day, six days a week,” Sam explained. “It’d be nice to take a break and consider retiring a bit earlier.”

They’ve also discussed moving to Queensland or splitting their time between Victoria and another location, though no decisions have been made yet. “It’s definitely going to make a big difference towards that goal,” he said. 

Julia added, “We want to start small. Booking this trip is the first step. This means the next chapter of our lives is just beginning, and we’ll get to spend more time together and enjoy our retirement.” 

When asked about his advice for those considering entering the Deaf Lottery, Sam kept it simple. “You’ve got to be in it to win it!” he said. 

As for hoping to win again, both Sam and Julia are optimistic. “I’m still entered and supporting the lottery – I'm sort of hoping to win twice,” Sam said. “Who says luck can’t strike more than once?” 

From our team at the Deaf Lottery, we wish Sam and Julia all the best. Whether it’s retirement, travel, or enjoying the peace that comes with financial security, their journey has just begun.  

To all our lottery supporters, thank you for your generosity. You’re helping us shape a brighter tomorrow.

*Winner's name changed as per their wish to remain anonymous