The handbag was found at the back of the Assef's car park by some building workers in the area.

It was handed in to Moree Police on Wednesday, August 5, and after linking up the identifying features, police believe it's the same handbag that was reported stolen on July 5, 2004.

The handbag was believed to be stolen from the back of the owner's car which was parked near the Heber and Auburn Street intersection.

A couple of days later, some of the contents of the bag were recovered near the Moree Railway Station.

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And now, more than 16 years later, the handbag and the majority of its contents was located in the Assef's car park.

Besides being in a weathered state, the handbag is in relatively decent condition, considering it has potentially been outside in the elements for the past 16 years.

Moree Police officer-in-charge Inspector Martin Burke said this goes to show why it's so important for people to report lost or stolen items.

"The moral of the story is that it's important to report this stuff, lost or stolen, because there's a greater opportunity to link it up with you if they're found later," he said.

"There were enough identifying features of this handbag that we have been able to confidently link it to the bag that was stolen in 2004.

"It shows that if you report things, there is opportunity down the track to be reunited with those items."

Police are still trying to make content with the owner of the handbag, but if anyone knows the owner, they are encouraged to get in touch with Moree Police on 6757 0799.