Brisbane lost property auction raises $160,000

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 annual 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 auction 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. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]