Australind local celebrates $1 million Lotto win

An Australind grandfather has become an instant millionaire after his $2 Lotto ticket turned into a $1 million prize.

The man, in his 70s, rides weekly on his gopher to his favourite retailer, newsXpress Treendale in Australind, to buy a Lotto ticket and run errands. 

When the man returned to the store to check his ticket, staff quickly realised his $2 Slikpik 3 held a Division One win and quietly took him into the store’s private office to deliver the life changing news.

“I wasn’t sure what to think when they first asked me to come around the back, but I definitely didn’t think it was to tell me I was a millionaire,” the winner said.

“I was in complete shock, the girls in the store are so lovely, and there were lots of cuddles and kisses to celebrate.”

Alongside celebrating the prize over lunch with his children and grandchildren, the man plans to purchase a new car and take a train-based holiday around Australia. 

Owner Sandee Mazza of newsXpress Treendale said it was heart-warming to see one of the store’s regular customers take home a Division One prize.

“It’s so exciting for the local community . . . people have been very positive about the win and sending us lots of congratulations,” she said. 

“I know this customer loves spending time with his children and grandchildren, so it’s lovely to think of him celebrating the prize with his family and making his life more comfortable.”