Jimmy Barnes and Ronan Keating save the day at Magic Millions Gold Coast Turf Club wash out

The Magic Millions race day washout turned into a rocking afternoon party thanks to concerts with rockers Ronan Keating and Jimmy Barnes. Watch the video

It started with so much promise.

The Gold Coast Turf Club Magic Millions organisers had navigated a nightmare week to fix a damaged track, get the all clear from jockeys to race and the stage was set on Saturday morning in Bundall to host Queensland’s $14.5 million race day - the state’s richest.

Despite early showers, the rain cleared, the sun came out and 100s queued early to get into the club before the gates officially opened.

The turf club opened the gates to the eager early arrivals to save them from the drizzle and the vibe was upbeat.

Magic Millions ambassador and Queensland State of Origin coach Billy Slater said: “I just saw the horses in first race go past the post. This morning, there was torrential rain we’re staying in Main Beach so I was like ‘oh how’s it going?’

“But the sun is out now and those horses look like they got around the track nicely and full steam ahead for the rest of the day.”

Nicole and Billy Slater at the Magic Millions race day - before the heavens opened up. Picture: Luke Marsden.

Australian Olympics pool queen Ariarne Titmus was also pumped.

“I’ve never actually been to a Magic Millions before. It’s nice to finally be at a race day in Queensland and on the Gold Coast with mum and dad. I’m excited.

“I love the fashion. I love dressing up. But I actually love watching the races the most. The synergy between horse and jockey is amazing and I’m looking forward to seeing it.”

Despite cloudy skies and lingering rain fears, the crowd’s enthusiasm was undeterred, with visitors from across the country keen to enjoy a day of racing and fashion.

“It’s good to see the track got repaired just in time, and hopefully the rain holds off for some good racing,” said local James Rose.

Steve, Robyn and Ariarne Titmus at the Magic Millions race day. Picture: Luke Marsden.

Sydney visitor Grace Algozzino said she and her group wouldn’t let the weather spoil their excitement.

“It’s our first time here, so we really wanted to be here rain, hail, or shine,” she said.

“Everyone is so lovely up here – down to earth and easygoing.”

The vibrant atmosphere extended beyond the racetrack, with long-time fashion friends Athena Lin and Angela McCormick reuniting for race day.

Angela, of Tweed Heads, picked Athena up from the airport that morning after weeks of exchanging outfit ideas.

People leaving a wet Magic Millions Raceday at Gold Coast Turf Club. Picture: Richard Walker

Both wore handmade pieces, with Angela showcasing an orange jumpsuit crafted from fabric scraps.

“It’s a really lovely community,” Ms. McCormick said. “The Gold Coast is all about fun, and usually it’s stinking hot, so I thought, why not go bold with an orange jumpsuit?”

The Magic Millions is also a reunion for seasoned attendees like Karen Cacciotti, who comes every year.

“The Gold Coast to me emits colour and freshness,” she said, dressed in a bright and cheerful outfit despite the gloomy weather.

Heavy showers hit punters enjoying the Magic Millions after race three on the Gold Coast. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“It’s a little more relaxed compared to Sydney and Melbourne – they’re quite tense, whereas the Gold Coast is all about enjoying yourself.”

Ominously, a horse named Heavenly Impact won the first of the day. Two races later it would prove prophetic.

After race three, word went around: jockeys had warned one more rain drop and it’ll be hard to continue.

The heavens opened up for maximum impact.

Racing Queensland CEO Jason Scott made a quick exit from the VIP marquee, returning soon after somewhat soaked.

Sources close to the Magic Millions said at about 2pm the “optimistic” view was the rain might clear, the track may drain and some of the rest of the card may continue.

Katie Page and Ronan Keating at the Magic Millions Race Day 2025 at Gold Coast Turf Club. Picture: Portia Large.

But by 3pm it became clear that was not going to happen - and the final seven races were rescheduled at the Gold Coast Turf Club under lights this coming Friday night.

Magic Millions co-owner Gerry Harvey announced: “Good news - it’s on on Friday. Under the lights, on the Gold Coast.”

Katie Page: “We’ve turned this into a great party. We want to thank you all for coming today, we know this is such a special day for everyone. We had the cancellation last week, we had the cancellation today. But fortunately we have been able to get together some pretty good entertainment for you.”

When Ms Page announced Irish star Ronan Keating would still play, a huge cheer went up as Mr Harvey joked: “Who’s he?” before revealing Keating had contacted them from Dubai last week when he saw the track drama, and asked if he could help.

Ronan Keating performs at Magic Millions race day. Picture: Luke Marsden.

“He was in Dubai and said I’m getting on a plane to come help,” Mr Harvey said.

Keating - formerly of boy band Boyzone - played multiple sets for the VIP marquee including several versions of hit ‘When you say nothing at all’ and Tracy Chapman’s Baby Can I hold You for the ultimate singalong.

And just after 5pm Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes cranked up his scheduled concert for racegoers who stuck around - belting out a powerhouse hour-long set featuring all his hits including Khe Sanh and Working Class Man.

When it was over, punters made for the exit as the skies ominously threatened to let rip again, pencilling in Friday night in the diaries - to do it all again.

Jimmy Barnes performs at the Magic Millions race day. Picture: Luke Marsden.