Geraldton punter in Cup windfall

A lucky Geraldton punter has had a $77,000 windfall on the Melbourne Cup after he successfully predicted the first three horses to cross the line in Australia’s biggest race.

Cameron Ley was already stoked after thinking he’d won a cool $5000 on his $50 bet, but his delight turned to shock and disbelief when his mates did the sums and informed him of the massive win.

“We thought it might be wrong until we actually got up there and put it through the machine at the TAB,” he said.

“There’s been a few beers poured, don’t worry about that. I don’t want to let anyone go thirsty.”

The 30-year-old, who is living in his Toyota Landcruiser after decking it out for a trip around Australia, said the extra cash would definitely come in handy when he embarks on his big adventure.

“A little bit of extra money, that might extend the fun,” he said.

Even more incredibly, the astute punter managed to secure another $5000 after backing in eventual winner Almandin for the win with another outlay of $50.

But, despite his remarkable success at the track, Mr Ley will be back to work next week.

The air-conditioning installer is due back at his job on an oil rig off the coast of Kazakhstan on Monday.