A rare no-reserve auction of an original 1960s Canberra red brick home will soon take place after a generous benefactor left his home to the children’s cancer charity, Camp Quality.

The 664sq m property at 5 Harding St, Watson had been owned by the late Lionel Moore for more than 50 years until he passed away in March.

No-one knows what Mr Moore’s connection is to Camp Quality.

“Lionel was a longstanding resident of the Canberra community and saw Canberra grow from a town to the modern city that it is,” Ray White Rural Canberra-Yass sales agent George Southwell said.

“He was one of the funniest blokes you’d ever meet and just a hardworking Australian. He actually had a long association with my family, even working on our farm at Lyneham back in the day but no one knows what Lionel’s connection was to Camp Quality.”

Mr Southwell said the nature of a no-reserve auction means the property will sell under the hammer to the highest bidder.

“Unreserved auctions are a rarity and having the proceeds of the sale going to a charity is almost unheard of,” he said.

“The executor of the estate, along with myself, decided that this is the best way to attract the level of interest this property deserves. The property will be sold unreserved to the highest bidder without the use of a vendor bid.”

The three-bedroom, one-bathroom residence is in a cul de sac of a quiet neighbourhood, which is growing in popularity.

“Watson is having a new lease of life as there’s been a large injection of enthusiasm into the established suburbs of the north due to their proximity to the CBD,” Mr Southwell said.

“This original Canberra red brick home is within walking distance to Watson shops, the Australian Catholic University campus, Majura Primary School and parks. It’s a home which would suit a variety of buyers ranging from a young couple starting a family, to an investor, to someone who’s wanting to secure a rare original property.”

The median price for a three bedroom home in Watson is $760,000, according to PriceFinder.

Camp Quality’s purpose is to give every Australian child impacted by cancer every opportunity to thrive.

Camp Quality does this by providing innovative programs and services for children (0-13 years) impacted by cancer, which help develop life skills and strengthen wellbeing, at every stage of the cancer experience.

Camp Quality CEO Kylea Tink said Lionel’s incredible act of generosity and heart came as a complete surprise.

“His bequest will have a huge impact on kids and their families impacted by cancer,” Kylea said.

“It will enable us to be there, free of charge, for even more Australian families; in hospital, at home, at school and away from it all.

“What an amazing gift Lionel has left behind for the all kids of Australia facing cancer right now.”

The no reserve auction will take place at 5 Harding St, Watson, on Saturday 23 June at 11am. More details here.