Hongkongers are forming long queues at betting stations for the chance to win a share of the HK$228 million (US$29.1 million) snowball draw – the city’s largest Mark Six jackpot.

The winning numbers are set to be announced late on Saturday evening, with the turnover reaching more than six times the amount for the previous draw of over HK$63 million.

For the latest draw, bettors have wagered more than HK$391 million as of 8.30pm.

Earlier on Saturday, a South China Morning Post photographer visited the “luckiest” betting branch in Tuen Mun Town Plaza, where 48 first-prize tickets have been sold since 1994, and observed dozens of hopeful residents waiting outside.

The snowball draw is being held to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Mark Six. The lottery game was launched in 1976.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club, the city’s sole gambling and lottery operator, estimated that the top dividend of the draw could reach HK$228 million, the highest in the Mark Six’s history.