Horses race to the finish line. Source : Noah Salzman
The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions raceday is set to hit the Gold Coast on Saturday the 14th.
The event features eight $1 million-plus races and is the only event in the Southern Hemisphere to do so.
Racing Minister Grace Grace said the meeting will see over $10 million in prize money offered across the races, and a likely boost to tourism in Queensland as a result.
“This race meeting is the crown jewel of the Queensland Summer Racing Carnival.” Ms Grace said.
“It is the grand finale of a spectacular event that supports good jobs and contributes to the great lifestyle we live here in Queensland.
“The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions Carnival is a bucket list event for many racing fans, and its popularity creates a total economic impact of $42 million and almost 85,000 visitor night stays on the Gold Coast.” She said.
Magic Millions’ Managing Director Barry Bowditch said the industry is kept sustainable through prize money opportunities for participants.
“Whether you are a syndicate member, a first-time owner, live in the country or the city, everyone should be able to qualify for prize money returns from Magic Millions races.” Mr Bowditch said.
“Magic Millions and Racing Queensland’s announcement earlier in the week outlined an array of compelling, current and future opportunities through the introduction of new races, increased prize money and greater options for participation.” He said.
Mr Bowditch went on to discuss the increases in detail, with the total prize money increasing to $11.75 million, and the total for 2024 intending to be $14.25 million.
Mr Bowditch also broke the prizes down per category.
The Magic Millions Raceday will be held at the Gold Coast Turf Club, which has hit an important milestone in its redevelopment plans.
Ms Grace praised the club’s efforts in increasing jobs in construction.
“The $63 million redevelopment of the Gold Coast Turf Club is creating almost 330 jobs during construction, and will inject $100 million to the local economy.” Ms Grace said.
“It’s now delivered its first major project with the installation of the all-weather Polytrack.
“…This artificial surface will allow racing to go ahead in wet weather situations when it otherwise would be called off.” She said.
Ms Grace then discussed how well the polytrack has performed previously, with an installed track on the Sunshine Coast.
Racing Queensland CEO Brendan Parnell said the new additions and enhancements to venues will ensure Magic Millions continues to draw in a crowd.
“We unashamedly want people to breed, buy and back Queensland, and we’re delighted to continue our long-term relationship with Magic Millions to ensure it maintains its standing amongst the world’s premier racing events.” Mr Parnell said.
The redevelopment will recommence after the 2023 Magic Millions Carnival has drawn to a close.
