The highly anticipated Gold Coast Magic Millions launch has undergone significant changes after a last-minute decision to relocate the horse racing to the Sunshine Coast. Despite the unexpected disruption, organisers have vowed to keep the party spirit alive at the Gold Coast Turf Club, transforming the night into a music-filled extravaganza under the lights.
The change in plans follows the discovery of chemical damage to the new track at the Bundall venue, leaving Queensland racing officials no choice but to shift the twilight meeting, which includes the $3 million Sunlight slot race and the $500,000 The Wave, to the Sunshine Coast. This move has not come without controversy, but Magic Millions organisers remain determined to deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees.
A “Gold Party” to Remember
Dubbed a “gold party,” the revised event at the Gold Coast Turf Club promises a lively atmosphere with multiple live music sets and entertainment. Australian music icon Daryl Braithwaite, known for his classic hit The Horses, will take centre stage for two performances, one following the 6:05 pm race and the other after the 6:40 pm race. Fans will also enjoy three high-energy DJ sets by Mashton Kutcher throughout the evening.
In a creative twist, the Turf Club’s mounting yard will transform into a live site, where attendees can watch the relocated Sunshine Coast races streamed in real time. While the horses will no longer thunder down the Bundall track, organisers are betting on the entertainment lineup to keep spirits high.
General admission tickets will give patrons access to both Braithwaite’s performances and the DJ sets, ensuring a vibrant party atmosphere for all.
A Star-Studded Occasion
Adding to the glamour of the event, Magic Millions will still welcome its lineup of celebrity ambassadors on the Gold Coast. Royal Zara Phillips and her husband, former English rugby star Mike Tindall, are among the prominent figures confirmed to attend. They will be joined by Queensland State of Origin coach Billy Slater and his wife Nicole, as well as polo professional Nacho Figueras and his wife Delfina Blaquier.
The presence of these high-profile ambassadors is expected to add a touch of star power to the evening, further cementing Magic Millions as one of the Gold Coast’s premier social events.
Racing Drama Shakes Plans
The decision to move the races came after jockeys raised concerns about the Bundall track’s condition, particularly at the 500m mark. On Friday afternoon, officials discovered that the new track had suffered significant chemical damage, leaving parts of the surface unfit for racing. The finding left racing officials with little time to act, prompting the decision to relocate the rich twilight meeting to the Sunshine Coast.
The unexpected move has sparked frustration among some ticket holders, who took to social media to voice their dissatisfaction. Comments such as “money back please” reflected the sentiment of those who had purchased tickets unaware of the venue change.
Despite the backlash, organisers are pressing ahead, assuring attendees that the event will remain a memorable celebration, now offering free entry to tonights event and promising refunds to general admission ticket holders and yet to be confirmed discounts to corporate hospitality holders.
A Statement on the Magic Millions Website reads “A Magic Millions Live Site including all activations, functions and hospitality will still be conducted at Aquis Park, while the 10-race card to be run in its entirety at the Sunshine Coast.
Existing ticket holders wishing to join us for the day will be offered discounts and refunds will also be issued. All ticket holders will receive an email on this”
Looking Ahead for the rest of the Magic Millions Carnival
While the launch night has seen its share of challenges, it is expected the week’s other events like Sundays Polo, and the main race day on Saturday, 11 January, will proceed as planned. With $14.5 million in prize money up for grabs, the marquee race day is expected to attract significant attention from the racing world.
