Buddha brings a touch of luck

By Callan Date
THEY say life could be a dream and that is certainly the case for a Hallam man who won $1.65 million in Tattslotto’s recent mega draw.
The 36-year-old, who wishes to remain anonymous, rubbed the stomach of a lucky Buddha at the Hallam Square News and Lotto when he bought his 24-game quick-pick only days before the end of 2006.
“It was the first time I had ever touched it since I started buying my tickets there about 18 months ago,” he said.
The regular Tattslotto player was notified of his windfall by a telephone call from a friend.
He said he normally plays a system seven entry but decided to buy a quick pick for the major draw on 30 December.
“I couldn’t believe it.
“He called me and told me to come home because Tattersall’s had left a message saying I had won.”
Amid the excitement of knowing his life would be changing forever the man decided to check his ticket for himself.
“I actually checked my ticket and didn’t see the win numbers. It was the third line from the top and I just must have skipped over it,” he said.
But another look at his ticket triggered the celebrations.
“I just started screaming. I probably spent about five minutes screaming and then I went over and hugged my neighbour.”
The lucky man tried to keep a lid on New Year’s Eve celebrations – even though he knew he had just become a millionaire – by sharing a few quiet drinks with some close friends.
“I didn’t want to get carried away and go over the top.”
The tradesman was due back at work on 2 January – but all he did was pick up his things and say some goodbyes.
“I handed my resignation in and my boss and everyone at work was thrilled for me.
“The response from the people that I have told has just been great. Everyone has just been really excited for me.”
The man was one of 20 first division winners throughout Australia and plans to invest a considerable amount of his small fortune.
“I have bought a house and a car for my mum and dad.
“That has been the biggest buzz so far – just to help my parents out,” he said.
Next on the list for the winner is a modest house near the beach and a second-hand car.
“I am going to buy a Holden Clubsport worth about $40,000.
“I worked fairly hard for my money before I won so I want to make it last.”
Norbie Garduce, who has owned the Hallam business for the past three years, sold the division one ticket and hopes the winning run continues.
“The Buddha has been here since I started and some customers like to touch it when they buy their tickets,” Mr Garduce said.