Redlands resident Annie Gates is hoping to inspire others with her story of overcoming hardship as she appears on reality TV show Million Dollar Island.
The Channel 7 program, which premiered last week, involves 100 everyday Australians living on an island together in extreme conditions with limited resources.
Each participant starts the adventure with a wristband worth $10,000 striving for a chance to win $1 million.
Contestant Annie Gates, who has lived in many different areas of Redlands since 2009, said participating in the show was a unique experience.
“It was a crazy ride but meeting everyday people from all walks of life was truly incredible,” she said.
Supporting herself since she was 14 years old while growing up in caravan parks, women’s shelters and living with a dysfunctional family, Ms Gates said she did not want to wait to speak up and inspire people to put themselves out there.
“All I want to do right now is inspire people to go on the next series,” she said.
“That money can change your life forever and the connections, experiences and people you meet are just an added bonus.
“The ball is in your court with how you let things affect you and how you create your world in there.”
