By Andy Young
A truck driver from Maitland, described as a "battler", has seen his life turn around thanks to a massive Keno jackpot win.
The winner, who wants to keep his identity private, has been a resident of the Maitland Hotel for a number of years and is now planning to use his winnings to buy or build a house.
“I’m trying to get used to it,” the winner said.
“I’m still shaking. I just bought the ticket this morning and went up the street to do some things.
“My friends at the hotel phoned me and said ‘we reckon you’ve won $2 million; you’re the only one who bought a 10-number ticket’.
“Because there were still three games left, we waited for them to finish before we checked the ticket.
“I couldn’t believe it; I still can’t.”
Keno spokesperson Nick Quinn said the company was delighted for the winner.
“It’s great to hear that our winner loves to play Keno, and is someone who will really put this money to good use” Quinn said.
“Keno is all about bringing people happiness and the chance to win – and that’s just what it has done for our latest Keno winner,” he said.
“Our Maitland winner is our tenth Keno millionaire this year, but I have a feeling he won’t be the last.”
The winner bought a Quickpick ticket for 50 games. The winning numbers were 1, 2, 8, 13, 33, 37, 51, 54, 68 and 75. Keno gives away around $35 million in prize money to New South Wales and Victorian players each month.