The Gold Coast Event Centre has opened at the turf club just in time for this Saturday’s Magic Millions Race Day

THE $11.5 million Gold Coast Event Centre was opened at the turf club this morning — just in time for Magic Millions Race Day celebrations on Saturday.

The new Gold Coast Events Centre at the Gold Coast Turf Club.

THE $11.5 million Gold Coast Event Centre was opened at the turf club this morning — just in time for Magic Millions Race Day celebrations on Saturday.

Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and The Commonwealth Games Jann Stuckey opened the 2500sq m exhibition hall, which has been under construction for several months and could not be finished in time for the first Gold Coast Show that was held at the turf club.

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The new Gold Coast Events Centre set up for the Magic Millions.

Ms Stuckey said the centre will have its first big test at this week’s Magic Millions Race Day when more than 100 companies and private entertainers will provide catering and entertainment to thousands of racegoers.

“This facility will continue to benefit the local economy into the future by hosting

events that help increase visitation and boost Gold Coast businesses,” she said.

“Funded by the Newman LNP Government, the multi-million dollar upgrade is part of the Gold Coast Show relocation project.”

“Construction of the project has created jobs for Gold Coasters with 93 per cent of the work completed by South East Queensland firms.”

Show Society President Doug Reiser said the facility will be used during the Gold Coast Show as a three-day base for community groups and artists.

Apart from its annual use as the Show Society’s core events pavilion it will be used by the turf club as a multi-events venue.

The centre, will have a capacity for more than 1200 people for seated dining and can seat 2000 for conferences.

The new Gold Coast Events Centre at the Gold Coast Turf Club.

It features state-of-the-art audiovisual infrastructure, a commercial kitchen, operable wall, full air conditioning and an 11-metre high ceiling.

Gold Coast Turf Club chairman Brett Cook said the completion of the centre was a major milestone for the club.

“The centre will not only enable the club to provide premium standard facilities on major race days such as the Magic Millions, but also to accelerate its move into the events market,” said Mr Cook.

“We have a great facility that is an important addition to the Gold Coast’s event hosting assets.”