Is there anything more Aussie than a Saturday morning wander past a driveway full of treasures? Folding tables, boxes of books, a slightly mysterious lamp, and a chat with the neighbour you've waved at for years but never actually met. This November, Australia's biggest secondhand treasure hunt is back, and it's living proof that one person's clutter can be another person's joy, and a win for the planet.

From a Bondi Whim to a National Movement

The Garage Sale Trail began in 2010, when Sydney mates Darryl Nichols and Andrew Valder added a secondhand sale to their Bondi Beach community event. Their tagline was simple: "Don't dump it. Sell it." They hoped for 30 garage sales and got 130 across the Waverley area (woohoo)!

It hasn't stopped growing since. Today the trail is backed by more than 120 councils and three state governments, and sales have popped up everywhere from driveways and unit blocks to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) and even NSW Parliament House.

Small Sales, Seriously Big Numbers

Since 2010, 4 million Australians have taken part in more than 134,000 garage sales and forged more than 2 million new community connections. Together they've seen 7.2 million items saved from landfill, with $52 million going to households, community groups and charities.

It's a handy little earner too. Last year the average seller made $761, while fundraising schools, charities and community groups made over $1,325 each on average.

Where the Real Magic Happens

The best bit isn't the bargains, it's the people. Port Macquarie Hastings ranked second in NSW for garage sales in 2025. Locals held 221 sales and markets, sold 18,446 secondhand items, kept 11 tonnes out of landfill and saved an estimated $242,000 by buying secondhand. Best of all, 81% said they felt more connected to their community afterwards.

How to Join the Garage Sale Trail 2026

The trail runs over two weekends, 7 and 8 November and 14 and 15 November 2026, and you can join in for one day or the lot.

If you’re selling, hosting is free and registered sellers get a listing on the national map. Households, unit blocks, schools, pubs and whole streets can all take part, and no garage is needed, as you can join a local market or team up with your neighbours. Most sales run from 9am to 2pm, and sellers keep every dollar they make! 

If you’d rather shop than sell, the interactive map will lead you straight to pre-loved treasures near you.

One Last Hurrah, and a Hopeful Next Chapter

This year has an extra sprinkle of sentiment. After 16 years, 2026 is the final event delivered by the Garage Sale Trail, which is turning its energy to its sister initiative, Grow It Local. The door isn't closed though. Director Barbara Gill says they're "opening expressions of interest for a new custodian, brand or organisation". Until then, there’s one more big November of treasure hunting to enjoy, so let’s make this one a celebration to remember.

If you're heading out treasure hunting, why not carry your finds home the low-waste way too? Our Bread, Shopping & Produce Bags are a lovely little companion for pre-loved adventures, whenever you're ready to explore them.

Ready for another feel-good story? Check out our blog here about old tennis balls getting a second bounce!

Until next time GFZ's,
Ellie xo

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Garage Sale Trail 2026?

The Garage Sale Trail 2026 runs over two weekends, 7 and 8 November and 14 and 15 November 2026, across Australia. You can take part on one day or more.

Who started the Garage Sale Trail?

Sydney friends Darryl Nichols and Andrew Valder started the Garage Sale Trail in 2010 at Bondi Beach. They hoped for 30 garage sales and ended up with 130 across the Waverley area.

Is it free to host a sale on the Garage Sale Trail?

Yes, it's free to host a sale, thanks to support from more than 120 councils. Registered sellers get a free listing on the national map plus posters, flyers and social media tiles.

How much money can you make at a Garage Sale Trail sale?

Last year the average seller made $761, and sellers keep the money they make. Charities, schools and community groups that fundraise made over $1,325 each on average.

How much waste has the Garage Sale Trail saved from landfill?

Since 2010, 7.2 million pre-loved items have been sold and saved from landfill. Around 4 million Australians have taken part in more than 134,000 garage sales, generating $52 million for households, community groups and charities.