ALL THE GOSS AND GLAM
FASHIONS in the Field host Liz Cantor, of Channel Seven, said the fashions on display were “outstanding”. “So often we attribute high-fashion to Sydney and Melbourne, but it’s all happening right here on the Gold Coast,” she said.
“I get so excited for the Magic Millions Fashions on the Field competition because there’s close to $17,000 worth of prize money, so everyone really ups the game. It’s so competitive.
“There’s still a Gold Coast edge to it and I really appreciate anyone who can still dress fashionably on a 30plus-degree day with close to 100 per cent humidity.”
YEAH THE BOYS
Heroes of the sport Gorden Tallis, Johnathan Thurston and Billy Slater are all handshakes and hugs as they reunite for one of the biggest horse racing events in the Southern Hemisphere.
“No one in Australia holds an event as exciting as the Magic Millions,” Mr Tallis said.
“I think it’s fantastic that Queensland gets to hold one of the nation’s best horse racing events. I remember coming here years ago when John Singleton was partner with Gerry Harvey and it was great then too,” he said.
“Bob Hawke was here years ago and it seems to get better every year. It’s fantastic for the state.
“It’s also where I met my wife so it holds a special place in my heart.”
State of Origin all-star Johnathan Thurston said it was his first year at the Magic Millions and he was “keen to have a great time with the boys.”
FASHION STAKES
Amy Byrnes and gal pal Marianne Milani just flew in from Townsville, and say they are excited about their first-time visit to the Magic Millions.
“We are so thrilled to be here and can’t wait to get stuck into the fun and fashion of the day,” Ms Byrnes said. “There are races in Townsville and Cairns, but nothing quite as exciting as this.”
Gracie Steel, from Melbourne, wearing a spectacular headwear display, said it was “wonderful” to get out of Victoria and come to the Gold Coast, where the “vibe was more relaxed”.
GENERAL BUZZ
Step outside the VIP marquee tent at Magic Millions, there’s a sea of Gold Coasters and visitors looking to strike it rich on raceday.
It’s a regular scene out in the main common area. Cans of XXXX Gold glistening in the midday sun and Bundaberg Rum a popular pick too. Hot dogs overflowing with
mustard and hot chips strewn across the concrete.
Police onsite said everyone had been on their best behaviour so far. “But it’s only early,” one officer said.
One man had a pink mohawk, gold chain, wraparound sunglasses and a three-piece grey suit. He said he was “primed”.
POLITICAL DIVIDE
The races helped cross the political divide. When Labor Health Minister Grace Grace arrived, the first person she bumped elbows with was Opposition MP for Surfers Paradise John-Paul Langbroek, who greeted her warmly before showing her where the toilets were.