In the hustle and bustle of air travel, passengers often leave behind more than just memories at Brisbane Airport. From the mundane to the extraordinary, these forgotten items find a new purpose in the airport’s annual Lost Property Auction. This year, the event promises excellent bargains for participants and brings hope to Queensland’s children.

Brisbane Airport has become an unintended treasure chest, with over 20 million passengers streaming through its terminals annually. This year’s auction, featuring a record-breaking 673 lots, is a timely opportunity for holiday shoppers. The event, slated to culminate on Sunday, 17 December, is already stirring excitement with its eclectic mix of items up for grabs.

A Peek into the Auction Chest reveals a remarkable array of forgotten goods. Among the lots are countless electronic devices, including laptops, iPads, and smartphones. The luxury category is not left behind, with fine jewellery and a pristine white Gucci bag catching the eye. Those with a taste for nostalgia can bid on vinyl records featuring legends like Frank Sinatra and Bob Dylan, while tech enthusiasts will be drawn to the GoPro Hero 6, a DJI Drone, and the latest Nintendo Switch OLED.

But it’s not just the array of items that makes this auction special. The heartwarming aspect is its charitable angle. Stephen Beckett, Brisbane Airport’s Head of Public Affairs, emphasizes the event’s growing impact. “Each year, as passenger numbers increase, so does the array of items. It’s heartening to turn these forgotten objects into a force for good,” he said. The auction’s proceeds are set to benefit the Courier-Mail Children’s Fund, aiding vulnerable and disadvantaged kids across Queensland.

Last year’s auction was a resounding success, raising $66,000, which benefited organizations like Zephyr Education, Speld, and Traction. With no reserve prices on the items this year, the event is poised to surpass previous records.

The airport has included exclusive items in the auction to boost the charitable proceeds. Aviation enthusiasts and regular travellers can look forward to bidding on unique experiences and practical offerings, like a 90-minute behind-the-scenes airport tour and a year’s worth of parking at the Domestic Terminal.

Brisbane Airport goes beyond just auctioning lost items. “We’re committed to ensuring these items don’t end up in landfill. Instead, they’re helping transform the lives of children in Queensland,” Beckett added. The auction presents a win-win scenario: bargain hunters can acquire unique items, and their spending directly supports a noble cause.

Interested bidders can participate in the online auction by visiting bne.com.au/auction. The event’s closing day promises to be a flurry of activity, with lots progressively closing from 10 am.

Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction stands out as a beacon of hope in a world where consumerism often overshadows compassion. It’s a reminder that even in forgotten corners, like an airport’s lost and found, there lies the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of others. This event is not just about the thrill of the bid or the joy of a bargain. It’s a testament to the community’s collective spirit, a spirit that uplifts and supports its most vulnerable members.

For those keen to participate, the clock is ticking. The Brisbane Airport Lost Property Auction is more than just a sale; it’s a celebration of community, charity, and the unexpected joy found in lost treasures.

Written by: Jill Walsh

======================================