A hard-working Rutherford man who spent years daydreaming about overseas adventures can finally pack his bags after scoring $1,000 a week for the next five years on an Instant Scratch-Its ticket.
The Hunter Region resident's winning $5 Live the Life Instant Scratch-Its ticket was purchased from Rutherford Marketplace Newsagency, Shop 8, Rutherford Marketplace, 1 Hillview Street, Rutherford.
It's been a winning streak for the Hunter Region, with a Maitland man also coming forward as the area's newest multi-millionaire after scoring a staggering $15 million prize in Oz Lotto.
When we called to confirm the winnings news, the chirpy man shared he was still processing the win days after claiming his newfound fortune.
"It's so unbelievable!" he exclaimed.
"I'm still in shock, to be honest. Initially, I read it all wrong and thought it wasn't a winner, but then I had this realisation, and I just thought to myself, 'Holy c***!'.
"I went straight to the newsagency to confirm with the team, and I had to make sure it was in fact a winner.
"A staff member then took me into a private room and told me that I had won a top prize. I couldn't believe it!
"I then had my birthday days later as well, so it really was the cherry on top!
"I haven't had a chance for any celebrations yet. I've pretty much worked all day and night since winning but I look forward to celebrating tomorrow!
"I've also never really been able to go overseas, so I'll be saving the pennies from this win and heading over there for a holiday as soon as I can!
"Thank you very much."
