Driving away with a bargain

MOST people would consider themselves lucky if a trip to the mechanic cost $85.

But yesterday, one lucky bidder picked up a whole car for that price - a white Toyota Corolla that was one of 19 abandoned cars auctioned off by the Fraser Coast Regional Council.

The cars ranged from Holden Commodores to Toyota Hiace vans, and sold for an average price of $110 to $160.

The most expensive sale of the day was a green Holden Commodore station wagon, sold to 17-year-old Joel Ockenden for $510.

"It's a pretty good deal, it's got a new alternator and no rust," he said.

But while Joel intends to fix up and drive his vehicle, most are expected to be turned into scrap metal.

John Goward, CEO of Maryborough charity The Pyramid, said the organisation bought three cars, including a gold Mercedes Benz which cost $250.

"Volunteers will strip them down and recycled or sold for scrap, with the money going to fund the charity," Mr Goward said.

Before the vehicles had even left the lot, Mr Goward had recovered some of his expenses - a man immediately offered to buy the spare wheel out of the Mercedes for $50.

"We will be selling cut-price Mercedes parts at the Pyramid for at least a couple of days, but the other cars will be crushed immediately," Mr Goward said.

The vehicles had all been left on roadsides, and no owners were found despite attempts by the council.

Another auction is expected to take place soon, as the council collects more vehicles.