Rural Aid's disaster relief program has an extra $5000 in the kitty thanks to the late Dr Ralph Lillford, who wanted some of the proceeds from the sale of his art collection to be donated to the charity.

Fifty-four works were auctioned online through Raffan Kelaher and Thomas and 17 of those sold.

The painting titled Man with Elephant attracted the highest price and sold for $1300.

One painting sold for $800, another for $340 and another for $320.

Eight works sold for $240 each and four sold for $80 each.

Read more: Late artist's connection to drought cause

"There were over 50 bidders who registered to bid," director Michael Thomas said.

"Given the size of the collection on offer, over 50 registered bids is a very good result."

It is not yet know how the remaining works will be sold.

"Relatives of Dr Ralph Lillford are now considering the next step for the unsold items, but would like to see them benefit a charity of some sort."