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Fake prince’s goods go under the hammer

A remarkable auction has occurred in Queensland’s history, featuring the opulent belongings of a fraudulent prince being sold off.

Joel BarlowOn Sunday, the Public Trustee auctioned off items belonging to Joel Barlow, the ex-public servant who embezzled over $16 million from Queensland Health while pretending to be Tahitian royalty.

The auction attracted a large crowd, with Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate participating as a bidder.

He expressed his intention to acquire a Hermes saddle for an upcoming polo match against an Indian maharaja.

Among the first items to be auctioned was a Chanel necklace, which sold for approximately $2,000—nearly double its retail value.

In total, there were 1,500 items available, including kitchenware, a Brett Whiteley screen print, two apartments, watches, and even a half-used bar of soap belonging to Barlow.

Certain items still displayed police evidence stickers.

Auctioneer John D’Agata mentioned that the collection was expected to generate as much as $300,000.

“It is a remarkable collection. He made excellent purchases. He acquired signed pieces. This auction is truly intriguing,” he stated.

Barlow is scheduled for sentencing later this month.

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