Those dust collectors could now be worth thousands and tomorrow the Mill Markets at Warrenheip is offering free valuations to help sort out the trash from the treasure.

A panel of experts will be available from 11am to give free appraisals of up to five items per person.

Mill Markets managing director Mark Ward said residents might find their forgotten family heirlooms were worth big money.

“There always has been knowledge within the antique industry that Ballarat has got treasures that are still tucked away – more than anywhere probably,” he said.

“People might be wondering what those antiques are worth, well we are here to help them out.”

Flanked by the doll who appeared on the first ever television broadcast in Australia on one side and a stuffed crocodile on the other, Mr Ward said there was no limit to how quirky Sunday’s items can be.

“We’ll have a panel of experts, about six antique dealers on board to field any valuations and questions.

“We’re offering special prices on Sunday, all the store holders have grouped together and are on board to do a bit of wheeling and dealing with the public.”

For more information, visit millmarkets.com.au.