Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction raises A$160,000 for charity

Brisbane Airport’s annual Lost Property Auction, which gives a second life to unclaimed items, has raised an impressive A$160,000 for charity.

The total is the largest amount raised since its inception in 2017, surpassing the previous year’s result of A$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, enthused: “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 A$1 reserve on all lots.  

The biggest bargain was a Samsung Display monitor selling for A$2, a foldable stroller for A$2, while the most expensive lot featuring three leather handbags fetched A$6,100.  

The Bvlgari gold diamond necklace, valued at A$11,000 sold for $A1,650, proving the Lost Property auction is a place for genuine bargains.  

The gateway’s community engagement manager, Portia Allison, noted: “Our annual Lost Property Auction helps us give back to the community that supports us.

“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. 

Funds raised from the auction will be distributed to nominated charities, including young people in need through the Courier Mail’s Children’s Fund.