Lost property auction raises record $160K for charities
Brisbane Airport’s annual Lost Property Auction, which gives a second life to unclaimed items, has raised $160,000 for charity.
This is the largest amount raised since its inception in 2017, surpassing the previous year’s result of $90,000.
The auction has once again captured strong public interest, with bidders competing for a range of goods including aviation memorabilia to mark 100 years of Brisbane Airport.
The event run by Lloyds Auctions featured hundreds of items left behind by the 24 million passengers who travelled through the terminals.
Despite efforts to reunite owners with their belongings, many items remain unclaimed well beyond the standard holding period.
Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said the 2025 auction set a new benchmark for the popular event.
“The results from Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction have shattered all previous fundraising records, with this year’s treasure trove topping our previous result of $90,000 last year.
“From a luxe Bvlgari necklace, to heritage aviation memorabilia such as plane seats, a black box flight recorder and even our iconic former Departures sign, the incredible generosity of bidders has ensured more support than ever for people in need.
“Thanks to some fierce bidding, these forgotten items have created some unforgettable outcomes.”
The 2025 Lost Property Auction had its largest ever catalogue of items, with 800 items starting with a $1 reserve on all lots.
The biggest bargain was a Samsung Display monitor selling for $2, a foldable stroller for $2, while the most expensive lot featuring three leather handbags fetched $6,100.
The Bvlgari gold diamond necklace, valued at $11,000 sold for $1,650, proving the Lost Property auction is a place for genuine bargains.
Other sold items included:
- Plane spotters package at the Pullman Brisbane Airport - $720
- Brisbane Heat VIP package - $1,550
- Brisbane Lions VIP package - $3,450
- Airside tour - $1,050
- 12-month airport parking - $5,800
- Royal Flying Doctor Service model aircraft - $400
- Delta Air Lines model aircraft - $405
- Ansett framed photo - $140
- Departures sign - $1,800
- Airside sign - $2,050
- Voice recorder from aircraft - $970
- Flight data recorder - $850
- Aircraft seats - $520
Brisbane Airport Community Engagement Manager Portia Allison said the proceeds from the auction would be donated to charities, as part of Brisbane Airport’s commitment to giving back to the community.
“Brisbane Airport is proud to turn lost property finds into real support for local charities.
“This year we set a $100,000 goal for Brisbane Airport’s 100-year milestone, but thanks to the generosity of bidders, we hit an outstanding $160,000.
“Our annual Lost Property Auction helps us give back to the community that supports us.”
Funds raised from the auction will be distributed to nominated charities, including young people in need through the Courier Mail’s Children’s Fund.
Community groups can apply for funding here.
For interviews contact Brisbane Airport’s media hotline: 0466 322 485