A 57-year-old retiree has ditched a $1.4 million BoysTown prize in the Noosa hinterland in favour of moving to Port Macquarie.
Bert (whose last name has been withheld) recently won a package which included a fully furnished luxury home in Doonan in Queensland.
But the retired builder and father of four boys has chosen to sell the ocean view property up north and settle in Port Macquarie with his partner.
“My partner and I spent last year driving up and down the New South Wales coast looking at where we could retire, and nothing beat Port Macquarie as far as we are concerned,” Bert said.
“We love Noosa and may look at living there someday. For now though, we look forward to many happy years in Port Macquarie.”
In fact Bert and his partner were in Port Macquarie finalising the purchase of a Hibbard Drive address when they were advised of his win in early August.
But the lure of luxury couldn’t sway the pair, who remain determined to continue with plans to live locally.
“We just love the climate in Port Macquarie — never too hot, never too cold.
“Where we have chosen to buy is also very flat and great for cycling into town, the Settlement City, the foreshore — everywhere.
“We have so much to look forward to with the move.”
Bert plans to use some of his prize winnings to return to Tasmania to visit his children, who still
live there.
He also has property in Tasmania.
Down the track, he may help his children buy their own homes, he said.
Bert has bought tickets in the BoysTown Lottery for years because the funds go towards disadvantaged children, young people and families in need.
“If you are going to have a flutter, I think it’s better for your funds to go towards a good cause, rather than a big company,” Bert said.
The home won by Bert is said to be an award-winning, architect-designed residence perched high on a ridge at Doonan, according to Keith Coventry, BoysTown’s General Manager Fundraising.
“The fully furnished property enjoys breathtaking hinterland and coastal views, including distant views of Laguna Bay and Noosa Heads. It features four large bedrooms and three bathrooms.
It is all set on 1.24 acres.
All funds raised from the BoysTown Lottery go towards BoysTown’s charitable services, which aim to give a fresh start for disadvantaged children, young people and families in need.
BoysTown services include Kids Helpline, Parentline, domestic violence refuges and employment and training services for disadvantaged young people.
Story: Kate Yates
