Delight as a local winner scoops dream £500,000 Donegal mansion

Just weeks ago, Belfast’s Magdalena Machowska made headlines when she turned down the spectacular Donegal Dream Home, opting instead for the £500,000 cash prize. That bold decision flung the doors wide open once more for one lucky person to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Emma Porter from Buncrana has officially claimed the keys to the stunning five-bedroom Donegal Dream Home a life-changing prize perched on the shores of Glen Lough, right along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

The big night unfolded on Sunday, as thousands of viewers tuned in for one of the most anticipated live draws in McKinney Competitions' history. Hosts Adrian and Peter once again brought their signature energy and humour to the evening, keeping audiences entertained from start to finish. Dubbed “Father Ted and Father Dougal” by fans, the duo’s chemistry and charm were as infectious as ever.

The night kicked off with the ever-popular Bonus Rounds, where lucky ticket holders from all over Ireland, Co Carlow, Co Galway, Co Fermanagh to name only a few, bagged hundreds in cash prizes. The excitement mounted with each win, building to a crescendo as the clock ticked closer to the main event. Facebook and YouTube lit up with messages from hopeful entrants.

Inside the Dungannon studio, the atmosphere was electric. The McKinney team knew the real magic was moments away. At five past eleven, the team went live once again. Behind the scenes, the random number generator was quietly set. On camera, the banter rolled on tension rising with every second.

Then came the moment.

A phone call. One ring. Two rings.
“Hello? Would that be Emma Porter?”
“Yes, speaking…”
“Hi Emma, it’s Adrian from McKinney Competitions you bought a ticket for the Donegal Dream Home?”
“Oh… yes!”
“Well, we’re absolutely delighted to tell you… YOU are the WINNER!”

There was a pause, then pure joy cheers erupted in the studio and from Emma herself. Her reaction was priceless. “Oh my God! What?! That’s wonderful!” she said, overwhelmed. “You’re live on Facebook right now!” Adrian added, as viewers celebrated with her in real time. “That’s fantastic… I don’t even know what to say!” she laughed.

Emma’s life had changed forever. Now she faces an incredible decision will she take the breathtaking Donegal Dream Home, or opt for the £500,000 tax-free cash alternative?

“Can I think about it?” she asked through the excitement. “My son is downstairs...” she added, still in shock.

And what a choice it is. The Donegal Dream Home is a five-bedroom masterpiece, located on the peaceful shores of Glen Lough, nestled along the iconic Wild Atlantic Way. With panoramic views, sleek finishes, and utter tranquillity, it’s the kind of place people dream about —whether as a forever home, a holiday hideaway, or a premium rental investment.

“And yet again, this amazing house has been won,” said McKinney Competitions Director Paul Gordon. “Emma just became our newest winner and everything is about to change for her. That’s what we’re all about: making dreams come true, improving lives, and giving back.”

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Emma is expected to visit the McKinney studio in the coming days to make her final decision. Will it be the keys… or the cash?

And while the Donegal Dream Home has found its new owner, McKinney Competitions is already gearing up for something even bigger. A major announcement is coming and it’s exclusive to their YouTube community.

Over the past few years, McKinney Competitions has grown into Ireland’s fastest-rising premium prize platform delivering over £65 million in prizes to more than 22,000 winners, and donating over £550,000 to local charities along the way. From dream homes and luxury cars to life-changing cash giveaways, they’re not just running competitions they’re changing live