Lottery 217: How One Ticket Unlocked a World of Possibilities

At 68, Julie never imagined her mornings could be filled with so much energy. But since her life-changing win, she’s found a new sense of excitement. “I’m bouncing out of bed every day,” she laughed. “I’m up early, doing the gardening, finishing the washing – all the chores are done before 10!” 

Julie recalled the moment that she ended the call with our team, feeling a wave of shock, as she realised her dreams that felt so far away, were now within reach.

"Right after the call, I looked at my two-year-old granddaughter and said, 'We’re going to the shops to get a big fan!' I felt such relief—knowing I could finally buy things without second-guessing whether I could afford them or not." 

Julie has been working three days a week at a boarding kennel, caring for dogs for the past 17 years. “I love the flexibility of it,” she said, “but after Christmas, I’ll finally finish up for good.” She’d been expecting to work well into her 70s. But this win has finally given Julie the financial stability to thrive in her retirement.

As a longtime supporter of the Deaf Lottery, Julie’s dedication to the cause stemmed from the love that she has for her 17-year-old granddaughter.

“I live with my daughter and son-in-law, so their three kids definitely keep me busy! My granddaughter is actually hard of hearing and receives NDIS support five days a week. I know how important it is to support the Deaf community, so I’ve been buying Deaf Lottery tickets for years,” she said. 

Since the initial shock of her win, the news has finally started to sink in.  

“I’ve already ordered my new Kia Niro hybrid! I met up with my son at the Kia dealership in Cleveland, and that’s when I spotted a car I absolutely loved. It may not be as flashy as a Lexus, but it’s a striking car with more features than I could ever need. I was even happier to hear they had one in stock, so I’ll have it within the next two weeks. My current car is a blue Subaru, and funnily enough, the Kia is a similar shade—I can’t wait!” she said. 

Julie’s win also opens doors for her to move out of the family home, and up to Bribie Island. “Once my youngest grandchild starts school, I plan to move up there and have my own space. I’ll still come down to visit and help my daughter’s family, but I’m looking forward to having a place that’s mine.” 

Julie encouraged those considering purchasing Deaf Lottery tickets to give it a go. “It’s for a wonderful cause, and you know your ticket goes towards something meaningful. I didn’t buy a ticket for every draw, but I supported it whenever I could. You just never know your luck.” 

From all of us at the Deaf Lottery, we wish Julie the best with her incredible win. Its supporters like her that make the biggest difference of all.