Security officers couldn’t believe their eyes when a gold nugget surfaced during a security x-ray baggage check at Mackay’s busy airport yesterday.

The Group 4 officers were even more shocked when nobody claimed the precious rock.

Group 4 shift supervisor Paul Motteram with a gold nugget found at Mackay Airport.

Mackay Port Authority communications manager Colin Wilson said the hunt was now on for the owner.

“We are checking security footage and hopefully something will show up,” he said.

The nugget – weighing about 4 ozs – was discovered as security officers collected a stack of plastic trays that had just been processed through a security x-ray machine.

“It appears the owner has emptied his pockets and somehow failed to collect the valuable rock with the rest of his items.” Mr Wilson said.

The incident happened just after 3 p.m. as passengers were filing into the security departure lounge – waiting to board the afternoon Virgin Blue and Jetstar services to Brisbane.

“You would think someone would have discovered it missing by now,” Mr Wilson said.

Mr Wilson the incident highlighted the honesty and integrity of the security staff working at Mackay Airport.