A fortunate memory lapse has transformed retirement for a Perth man, turning a simple mistake into a multi-million dollar jackpot.
A Costly Oversight Becomes a Golden Windfall
A retiree in his 70s from Perth's southern suburbs experienced the shock of a lifetime after a slip of the mind led to a massive $2 million payday. The man, who plays his favourite numbers every week, forgot he had already purchased a ticket for the Millionaire Medley draw on January 2 and bought another identical ticket just days later.
"I only found out that I had bought two tickets after I received a call from Lotterywest letting me know I had won two division one prizes," the winner explained. He had used the Lotterywest app to buy the first ticket on New Year's Eve, but amidst the busy holiday period with family and friends, the purchase slipped his mind, prompting the second, fateful transaction.
Verifying a Life-Changing Win
After visiting the Lotterywest Winners Room to confirm the incredible news, the man reflected on what the financial security means for his future. "I am so grateful that I can now enjoy my retirement stress free and on my own terms," he said.
He also highlighted the joy of being able to support his family, a dream for many parents. "I'm sure most parents dream of being able to help out their children financially, so to be able to do that for my kids and their families is going to be special," the grateful winner added.
History of Happy Accidents in WA Lotteries
Lotterywest spokesman Jake Battrick noted that while this type of double win is uncommon, Western Australia has seen similar fortunate errors in the past.
In 2023, a husband and wife both accidentally bought a Saturday Lotto ticket featuring their shared favourite numbers from a Pharmacy 777 in East Perth. That miscommunication landed the couple two separate $1.25 million division one prizes.
A comparable scenario benefited a northern suburbs couple in 2021. They also purchased two division one winning Saturday Lotto tickets by playing their favourite numbers twice, allowing them to share a combined prize of almost $2 million.
These wins contribute to a broader community benefit. Thanks to WA players and retailers, all available profits from Lotto tickets support community groups across the state through Lotterywest's grants program. One current example is an $80,000 Lotterywest grant supporting Uni Camp For Kids to run its Summer Camp programs, offering life-changing recreational experiences to young people facing hardship.
