A group of 12 former Lambton County firefighters is celebrating after winning a $100,000 ENCORE win.
Herbert Gallaway, Terry Wilson, Roy Mazzatesta, Lee Dunford, Martin Dewhirst, Edward Brown, Blake Willock, Bradley Seabrook, Carly Terryberry, Darryl Foster, Larry Gowrie and Vincent Whelpley matched the last six of seven numbers in exact order in the November 30, 2024 LOTTO 6/49 draw.
The group used to work together and have been playing the lottery together since 1993.
Gallaway said he takes care of purchasing their tickets for every draw for LOTTO 6/49 and LOTTO MAX with ENCORE.
"I have a notebook where I write down everything about the tickets and group expenses," he said.
Gallaway said he was drinking his coffee one morning when he scanned the group's ticket on his phone using the OLG app and it said big winner.
He added he called Mezzatesta and they made plans to head to the store together to check their ticket.
"We were both shocked to discover we'd won $100,000," Gallaway said. "Winning comes with a sense of disbelief but it's a thrilling feeling."
When the pair confirmed they won they called the rest of the group.
"Everyone thought we were joking and couldn't believe it at first. We were all so happy," Gallaway said.
The group members plan to share with their families, complete home renovations and take vacations.
The winning ticket was purchased at Petro-Canada on London Road in Sarnia.