Brisbane Airport launches annual Lost Property Auction

Credit: Brisbane Airport

The 2024 Brisbane Airport Lost Property Auction is now underway, featuring a wide range of items left behind by the 22.6 million passengers who passed through the airport over the past year. Despite efforts to reunite owners with their belongings, many items remain unclaimed beyond the standard holding period.

This annual auction, hosted by Brisbane Airport, is conducted to raise funds for young Queenslanders through the Courier-Mail Children’s Fund. Proceeds from 2023’s auction amounted to $80,000, supporting initiatives such as TrekShed’s youth programme in partnership with PCYC and Little Wings, which provides transportation for sick children from regional areas to urban hospitals.

This year, 486 lots are up for auction, with no reserves on any items, making it an opportunity for bidders to secure bargains in the lead-up to Christmas. The auction is managed by Lloyds Auctioneers and Valuers.

Peter Doherty, Brisbane Airport’s Media and Corporate Affairs Manager, said: “This auction is hugely popular because it offers people a chance to snag a bargain while knowing their money is supporting young Queenslanders in need.”

Featured auction items

The auction includes a diverse selection of unclaimed items, such as:

• Technology: Phones, laptops, iPads, headphones, and other electronic devices
• Cameras: A variety of equipment, including a Canon 5D camera with a 70-200mm lens
• Entertainment: Items like portable speakers, a Sony PlayStation 4, and a Nintendo Switch
• Fishing Gear: Rods and reels, including a marlin fishing reel
• Jewelry: A selection of bangles, rings, bracelets, necklaces, and watches
• Fashion: Handbags, sunglasses, and various types of footwear
• Outdoor Equipment: Items such as surfboards, bicycles, camping gear, and more.

Doherty added, “Whether you’re looking to unwind after your travels, find a new adventure with a fishing rod, or enjoy gaming with a Sony PlayStation or Nintendo Switch, there’s something for everyone in this auction.”

Special items

In addition to the lost property items, Brisbane Airport has included special items in the auction to further boost fundraising efforts:

• Brisbane Airport Experiences: A 12-month parking pass and a behind-the-scenes airside tour of the airport
• Sports memorabilia: VIP packages from the Brisbane Lions and Brisbane Heat, featuring signed jerseys, game tickets and exclusive experiences.

Public appeal for valuable lost items

Two significant items are not part of the auction due to their irreplaceable sentimental value. Brisbane Airport is seeking public assistance in locating the owner of a set of medals belonging to an Australian Defence Force veteran. These medals represent service in the Vietnam War, as well as during the Queensland floods and bushfires.

Additionally, the airport is searching for the owner of the XXXX Mode Plate from a 1200m race at Doomben, won by the horse Isotope.

The online auction will conclude on 27 October 2024 with lots progressively closing from 10:00 (AEST).