A Ballarat dad is excitedly looking forward to buying a house his family can call their own after unlocking an Instant Scratch-Its top prize worth $250,000.
The Central Highlands resident's $10 Blazing Hot 7s Instant Scratch-Its ticket was purchased at Victoria Street News & Lotto, Shop 1, 75 Victoria Street, Ballarat East.
When we spoke with the winning man this morning, he confessed he was still pinching himself in disbelief.
"Thank you! It honestly still doesn't feel real!" he exclaimed.
"My wife and I treat ourselves to a couple of tickets every week or so. We've always heard of people winning the top prize, but you never really know if it's real until it happens to you.
"It's unreal. We've been trying to save up for a house deposit for a while now. This money is going to fast track everything.
"My wife has already been looking at potential properties.
"We'll also be able to put some money aside and feel secure.
"It's going to help our young family out a lot! Thank you so much!"
Victoria Street News & Lotto owner Shreya Miterani shared she was over the moon to discover her outlet had sold its first major prize winning ticket and couldn't wait to spread the good news.
"We're so happy and excited to hear we've sold a top prize winning Instant Scratch-Its ticket at our outlet," she said.
"Finally, we get to witness the joy and share in the excitement of a major lottery prize. It's a huge milestone for us, and we can't wait celebrate more in the future!
"This is our first time selling a major prize winning entry, and we can't wait to share the story with all of our customers.
"A huge congratulations to our winner on your big $250,000 Instant Scratch Its win, and for being our first major prize winner in our store! We're very happy for you and hope it will help you to fulfill your dreams or goals."
