NUMURKAH local Lee Lythgo knows just how rewarding supporting local businesses can be after taking home the $5,000 major prize in the 2025 GMCU Giveaway.
Lee’s winning entry came from a $208.84 grocery shop at Coles Riverside Plaza, meaning her prize was worth the equivalent of almost 25 grocery shops if spent the same way.
When The Adviser called with the news, Lee was stunned.
“Is that true?” she asked. Later reflecting on the win, Lee said the prize created opportunities she wouldn’t have normally considered. With a grandson expected later that year, there was no shortage of ways the money could be put to good use.
Lee wasn’t the only shopper celebrating. Nagambie’s Martine Eames won a $750 GMCU debit card after entering at the Main Course Butchery at Riverside Plaza.
“I just can’t believe it! That’s so wonderful,” Martine said when she was told she had won. “I spent a fortune in Shepparton that day, so it’s great to win this prize.”
Several locals also claimed $250 weekly prizes by supporting local stores, like Kaye McInney who won at Central Tyre Services, Marie Priestley who shopped at Fairley’s IGA, Bridget Hurley who won at Perfect Pieces, and Paul Tricario whose winning entry was at North End Bakehouse, among many others.
Their stories highlight what makes the GMCU Giveaway so popular. Time again, ordinary shopping trips have turned into unexpected windfalls for local residents, rewarding people simply by supporting businesses across the region.
This year, there are even more chances to win. GMCU and The Adviser are giving away a record 58 prizes, including the $5,000 main prize, a $500 consolation prize, 50 weekly shoppers prizes worth $250 each, as well as prizes for participating businesses.
With approximately 140 businesses this year and more winners than ever before, the question is: what would you do with $5,000?
