Meet Byron

For Byron Cock, winning the Grand Prize in MS Lotteries Draw 242 was about much more than the prize itself. It was a moment of reflection on the people, memories and experiences that had shaped his life, particularly his wife, Carmel, and their long connection with MS Queensland.

Byron had been buying MS Lotteries tickets since before Carmel passed away two years ago.

Carmel lived with MS, and throughout her journey she and Byron became closely connected with MS Queensland.

Over the years, Carmel accessed a range of services and supports, including Specialist Disability Accommodation with 24-hour care. An MS Queensland Support Coordinator worked alongside her, helping her connect with services and equipment to support her independence and quality of life.

The compassion and dedication of her carers left a lasting impression on both Carmel and Byron, helping Carmel remain connected with family, friends and the wider community despite the challenges of living with MS.

Byron saw first-hand what the right support at the right time could mean for someone living with a neurological condition.

MS Queensland became part of their journey, providing care, stability and support when it mattered most.

After Carmel’s passing, Byron continued to support the organisation through donations and MS Lotteries.

He became an MS Club member in April 2025, giving him additional chances to win while continuing to help fund the services that played such an important role in his and Carmel’s lives.

When Byron received the call telling him he had won the Grand Prize, he was flooded with emotion. The win prompted him to reflect on his life with Carmel and their shared journey with MS Queensland.

“Reflecting on my life, I have had two really good lucks.”

“One when Carmel decided to match up with me, and last week when I discovered I had won the MS Raffle.”

For Byron, Carmel was his first great piece of luck.

Winning MS Lotteries was the second.

Carmel’s memory continues to shape Byron’s outlook and his ongoing support of MS Queensland.

Supporting MS Lotteries became Byron’s way of giving back to an organisation that supported both him and Carmel.

“I like the odds… and in part, it was thanks for the help Carmel received.”

For Byron, supporting MS Lotteries has always been closely connected to the care Carmel received throughout her journey.

His win is now a meaningful full-circle moment, celebrating a life shared with Carmel while helping support people living with neurological conditions and their families.

It is a story grounded in love, gratitude and enduring connection, and a reminder of what truly matters.