Ever wonder what happens to the weirdest things left behind in taxis? From wads of cash to prized trophies, the stories of lost and found items in cabs are truly astonishing. 13cabs' annual lost property report reveals some of the most peculiar and valuable items forgotten by passengers.
Forgetfulness seems to be a common trait among cab users. Last year alone, over 10,600 items were left behind, a rise from 9,816 in the previous year. Among these, the report highlights some truly remarkable finds. Imagine leaving behind a prestigious RANVET Stakes racing trophy, or a whopping $14,000 in cash! One lucky passenger even forgot $7,642, only to have it returned.
But here's where it gets controversial... The report also reveals the cities with the most forgetful passengers. Victorian passengers top the list, leaving behind 4,125 items, followed by Queensland with 2,532 and NSW with 2,347.
One of the most memorable lost items was a full set of dentures, which were thankfully returned to their owner. Another passenger was reunited with their mobile phone, which was found on the bonnet of the taxi, 40km away from where it was left!
The drivers' dedication to returning lost items is truly commendable. For instance, Sydney cabbie Mohammad Amiree returned a travel bag containing US$5,000 (approximately $A7,642), a passport, an iPad, and personal documents. On the Gold Coast, driver Sawarn Singh Dhaliwal personally returned a bag containing about £8,000 (around $14,000) and essential medication to a woman.
The stories don't end there. A traveller from Singapore had rosary beads and a personal diary returned after accidentally leaving them behind. Even legendary Australian jockey Glen Boss was reunited with his three prized Melbourne Cup trophies. This year, a cabbie found a RANVET Stakes racing trophy, which was later returned to its owner. The RANVET Stakes is a prestigious Australian horse race with a prize pool of $1 million.
While mobile phones, wallets, and passports are frequently forgotten, some of the more unusual items include a sleep apnoea machine, dentures, and a “smoking apparatus”.
And this is the part most people miss... The report also indicates that weekends and long weekends are the most forgetful periods, with Melbourne Cup Day being the busiest day for lost property.
“Our drivers consistently go above and beyond to return valuables and personal belongings,” says 13cabs chief operating officer Olivia Barry.
As the travel and holiday season approaches, passengers are reminded to double-check for their belongings before leaving the taxi.
What do you think? Are you surprised by the range of items left behind? Have you ever lost something in a taxi and had it returned? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
