Mr Murphy, who has travelled down from Whittlesea, has been coming to the Ballarat's Swap Meet for 26 years.

"I've got a few mates, and we only catch up once a year and it's always here," Mr Murphy said.

"The group come down from the middle of New South Wales, Adelaide, one from Sydney and we catch up here.

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"We like to sell a bit. One man's trash is another man's treasure. Hopefully we go home with an extra dollar in our pocket - if we break even we're happy."

The queues started early by the Ballarat Airport this morning as more than 2700 vendors get ready for the biggest Swap Meet of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

John Townsend, from Gembrook, said while he was mainly a seller, he always had a few extra dollars in his pocket.

"I come here to have a good time. I always chase some bits and pieces, but I just love to see what I can. If I see something I want I'm happy to buy.

"For me it's relaxation, it's a camping trip, it's all about having a good time."

The Ballarat Swap Meet is run by the combined Rotary Clubs of Ballarat and operated by Rotary and staffed by volunteers.

This year's event will also act a fundraiser for bushfire charities.

"$2 from every entry is going to the Rotary National Bushfires Appeal and drought relief," site holder liaison officer Clare Bennett said.

"Every cent of what is donated will make its way to those in need, not to the charities.

"It's the 31st Swap Meet and the biggest in the southern hemisphere.

"If you can't find it at the Ballarat Swap Meet, you can't find it anywhere."

Swap Meet is at Ballarat Airport on Friday and Saturday.

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