Retirement came much sooner than expected for a middle-aged Kenmore couple after their winning numbers delivered a $40.7 million prize, giving them the financial freedom to leave their jobs immediately.
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The Brisbane pair claimed the sole Division One prize in Powerball draw 1575 on Thursday, 23 July, receiving $40,724,820.55. Their entry also secured 19 Division Two wins, bringing their total prize to more than $40.7 million.
The life-changing news arrived in a phone call shortly after the draw. According to officials, the husband initially thought it had to be a joke, responding with an expletive before repeatedly expressing disbelief that the prize could really belong to them. His wife was equally stunned, saying she had joked that the incoming call might be about their ticket, never expecting it to become reality.
As the shock wore off, the couple quickly decided there was no reason to continue working.
The husband said winning such a prize had always been something he imagined rather than expected, making the moment difficult to comprehend. The couple said their immediate plans included paying off their mortgage and helping their children and extended family.
Their first comments focused on paying off the mortgage, supporting their family and retiring immediately rather than discussing how they might spend the money.
The winning entry was purchased in Kenmore and was the only Division One winning ticket nationally in the draw. The win has drawn attention to the suburb after it produced Australia’s sole Division One winner in the draw.
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The $40 million jackpot had rolled over several times before it was finally claimed. While one ticket secured the top prize, prizes were also won across the lower divisions. The couple’s initial reaction was one of disbelief as they tried to process the news. The unexpected phone call marked the beginning of a dramatic change in their lives.
In their first public comments, the couple focused on family and financial security. They said paying off the mortgage, supporting their children and family, and retiring immediately were their first priorities.
Published 27-July-2026
