The Star Gold Coast’s Magic Millions celebrations up the stakes.
The Star Gold Coast’s Magic Millions celebrations up the stakes.
Splash some water on that face and look alive, GC – one of our summer standouts, The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions Raceday is just around the corner. As always, The Star Gold Coast is ready to take the reins on all the most fabulous events to grace our events calendar and this fashion-filled favourite is no exception.
When it comes to being hot to trot for a fancy-free day of race day revelling – it’s not all sunshine, sipping champagne and roses – there are many important details that need to be ironed out first. So let us not ‘horse around’ a moment longer and settle the conundrum of the ultimate post-race afterparty at The Star Gold Coast come January 13.
To keep the good times going long after the last race is run, the Garden Kitchen & Bar is firing up its own lush little turfside party, with an extra special Live on The Lawn Magic Millions edition for the frock-ccasion. The open-air stage is set for a sunset session filled with frosty beverages, alfresco bites and back-to-back bangers courtesy of some heavy-hitter headliner DJ sets… and just trust us when we say… ‘Don’t Hold Back’ when it comes to planning your frock around your comfiest, faithful-est, (gel-cushioned, preferably) dancing stilettos…
The live and free sessions regularly going down at The Lawn at Garden Kitchen & Bar are already known as one of the most spectacular settings to soak up our balmy summer evenings, but ‘extra special’ we teased, and true to our word… ‘extra special’ ye shall receive. Get ready to carve up the d-floor as The Potbelleez take the stage to supply some epic tunes for the evening, with an electric twilight set kicking off from 6:30pm.
As one of our most successful dance groups, not only has their knack for penning/producing hit dance anthems landed them performances on festival stages across the globe, but their ear-worm-style ballads have surpassed an eye-watering 750,000 singles and albums sold.
Need a refresher on your early-2000’s club bops? Infectious tracks like ‘Hello’, ‘From The Music’, ‘Are You With Me’, are all sure to slap, and if we’re not yet ringing any bells, the triple platinum, top 5 single, ‘Don’t Hold Back’ sure will among anyone who has ever owned a TV set (aka the Jeep Commercial living rent free in our heads). So, word to the wise – ensure those sundowners are firmly in hand well before that straight fire starts dropping from the decks, folks.
The Container Kitchen is also on-hand to keep the sustenance levels up, churning out some fire of its own with the likes of the flame-licked Chargrilled Angus Beef Burger and Yuzu Aioli Fried Calamari providing exactly the type of delicious, one-handed fare we need to refuel on the go. In between all those killer moves, obvi – and long live the ‘sprinkler’, we say.
So GC, it looks like Lady Luck is on our side this year – it is already shaping up to be one very memorable and magic race day in-steed.
Where: The Lawn at Kitchen Garden & Bar, The Star Gold Coast, 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
When: Saturday 13 January, 6:30pm – 7:45pm
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY THE STAR GOLD COAST
The Star practises the responsible service of alcohol.
Don’t horse around and miss out on fashion & filly’s.
Summer is here and the new year is near which you know means one thing… the Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping is just around the corner and who are we to say neigh to a day at the Polo.
The Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo & Showjumping is one of the most exciting calendar events each and every year, it’s the ultimate time to pick out a new frock from our favourite shopping spot, Pacific Fair, and bask in all of the on-field action. And truly, you don’t need to ask us twice.
Kicking off The Star Gold Coast Magic Millions Carnival, it’s without a doubt one of the most stylish days out (no thanks to our well-dressed friends at Pacific Fair) and whether you’re there to catch the action on the field or the fashion on the fields, it’s always an exciting day out.
At the event it’s royal treatment all round whether you’re coming for a family day out or something a little more fancy at the Pacific Fair Pavilion – don’t mind if we do.
Speaking of royal treatment, you might even get a glimpse of one of our fav royals, the (figurative) queen herself, Zara Tindall. Our girl Zara will be going head to head with the Argentinian polo superstar himself, Nacho Figueras, for what’s always an uber-competitive match. When it’s time for the celebrity game, you can also catch the pros battling it out in a heated match between Australia’s best polo players.
It’s one of the most celeb-studded events our glittery Gold Coast sees each year so you might event get a chance to say hay to Northern Rivers icon Elsa Pataky – hopefully that means a Hemsworth sighting too (swoon) – and football legend Billy Slater among other famous faces.
Polo nacho vibe? More into showjumping? Say less because some of the best riders in Australia are coming together for the kickstart event of the season and you can catch the pros alongside the junior jumpers. Along with some former thoroughbred racetrack stars now showcasing their talent in their new career after racing in the showjumping arena.
Perch up for a packed picnic with the kids while you lap up the field-side action and of course there’s things to keep the little ones busy all day, think face painting and petting zoo so between the action you can pat a piglet (as you do). There’s loads of live entertainment too so there’s summer vibes, all day long.
For those looking for a little more VIP action, the Pacific Fair Pavilion gives that luxe vibe you’re looking for with a premium food and beverage package for six hours – yes you read that right – and of course an in house DJ, because if you’re anything like us you’ll be ready to tear up the dance floor after a cheeky couple of glasses of bubbles.
But how could we forget the ol’ faithful divot stomp? The whistle blows, the players are galloping away and you’re officially allowed on the field in that fancy fit to fix the divots left from those horse hooves so you can leave the day feeling v productive and like you’ve played your part in the big day. It’s always a huge hit among the (big and little) kids – any excuse to stomp around some grass with permission we say!
Grab your tickets here.
Where: Doug Jennings Park, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach
When: Sunday 7 January, 2024
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
STORY SPONSORED BY MAGIC MILLIONS
When Spotify just isn't cutting it.
There are a great many things to get amongst on the GC, and these days, a thriving local music scene is undeniably one of them. And we can all agree, if there’s one thing that takes kicking back with a frosty refreshment to a whole new level, it’s getting your ears around some sweet tunes while you do it.
From dank, hidden indie dive bars to classic pub-style serenades for the whole fam to vibe to – whatever genre you’re in the mood for, there’s bound to be a venue to match.
This Arundel’s brewery has been hitting all the right notes since they slid open their enormous barn door at the end of 2022. Hound and Stag is now the GC’s largest combining craft brews and live music, and honestly, how could you go wrong with a combo like that?! The regular array of tribute bands are the big old auditory cherry on top of an excellent atmosphere, brew-pub bites and endless frosty beverages here, folks.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel
One of Queenland’s largest AFL clubs, Southport Sharks is a family-friendly gem that’s more than merely a haven for footy fans to wet their whistles. With multiple venues and areas built-in, this Babushka doll vibing spot always has something going on, including live acts every weekend if you’re in the mood to groove. Every Friday and Saturday night, there’s an assortment of free gigs going down, from retro RnB shows, classic pub rock to tribute acts to get those toes tapping.
Where: Cnr Musgrave and Olsen Avenues, Southport
We can always count on our local dive bar to deliver us the very dankest of gigs, and Vinnie’s Dive does exactly that. Championing our local music scene, they’re no strangers to big alt/indie names such as Dear Seattle, DZ Deathrays, Wil Wagner (The Smith Street Band) The Bennies and Regurgiator gracing their small but mighty stage – in addition to karaoke and themed tribute nights. We think this review sums it up best: “It’s dark, the floors are sticky, the toilets seats are occasionally broken, the beers are icy cold and the staff are the best people you’ll ever meet.” Get down there for great times and even better gigs.
Where: Shops A & B, 44A Nerang Street, Southport
There’s always something happening at SOPO, the entertainment heart of Southport. Right in the centre of the CBD, this lively local is your go-to for everything from live music and DJs to trivia, bingo and special events, with something on the calendar day and night. Come the weekend, Seductions Lounge turns up the volume with a rotating lineup of talented local bands and performers every Friday and Saturday, delivering the perfect soundtrack for dancing, drinks and good times with friends.
Where: 36 Scarborough Street, Southport
Take the stairs to Level 1 and you’ll find one of Surfers Paradise’s most entertaining nights out. Hotel Jardin’s Piano Bar pairs expertly crafted cocktails with live piano sessions in a moody, intimate setting centred around a baby grand. Dubbed Surfers’ favourite sing-along piano bar, the resident pianist plays all your faves and happily takes requests, so whether you’re keen to belt out a classic, sip your way through curated wine flights at Sips & Sounds, or simply soak up the late-night energy, this is your cue. Live music kicks off from 5pm Tuesday and Wednesday, and from 6pm Thursday through Sunday.
Where: 3240 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
The Home of the Arts is certainly doing the heavy lifting to finally elevate the arts and culture scene here in our section of Queensland. From intimate, indoor performances to the homegrown darlings and headline acts routinely taking one of Australia’s best outdoor stages – the variety of shows are as varied and vibrant as its technicolour exterior.
Where: HOTA, 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Open Tuesday to Sunday, Den Devine was awarded Gold Coast Live Music Venue of the Year 2025, and it’s easy to see why. Since opening in 2020, Den Devine has put live music at the heart of everything it does, celebrating both seasoned pros and rising local talent across jazz, blues, and a whole mix of global genres. The intimate, “music is life” vibe makes every visit feel like a front-row experience.
Fuel your night with UK & Irish fayre, European classics, USA favourites, and a stellar whisky selection. Seats fill fast, book ahead to catch the vibe.
Where: 15 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
When it comes to star-studded acts and internationally recognised music performances, The Star Gold Coast is the place to grab a seat in a full-blown theatre and experience music as it was intended. But the entertainment doesn’t stop when the curtain falls.
Across the precinct, you’ll find live music lighting up Atrium Bar, Nineteen at The Star and Cherry, alongside the open-air ambience of Garden Kitchen & Bar’s Live on the Lawn series. From DJs and soloists to laidback acoustic sets and vibrant weekend sessions, there’s always a soundtrack to your night out.
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Build it, and they will come… though it’s not clear in this analogy if the ‘they’ should be the steady stream of stellar, live music acts, the hungry hordes, or adoring music fans. Either way, this iconic laneway has established itself as a cracking spot for many things, including one of the best places to catch a gig on the GC.
From 5pm from Wednesday to Saturday nights, Miami comes alive with foods from all around the world mixed with local blues, jazz and independent artists. A hotspot doing some solid heavy lifting to attract incredible national and international acts as they tour the country – Be sure to keep an eye on their gig calendar; tickets always sell out fast!
Where: 23 Hillcrest Parade, Miami
A true Gold Coast icon since 1883, The Wallaby Hotel is where cold beers, loud guitars and even louder singalongs collide. Fresh from a glow-up that still keeps its old-school charm intact, this Mudgeeraba fave is basically the unofficial HQ for live music lovers. Expect bands belting it out every weekend (and often midweek too), dance floors that don’t quit and plenty of boot-scootin’ opportunities. Whether you’re here for a chilled solo pint or a full boogie with the crew, good times are basically guaranteed.Where: 45 Railway Street, Mudgeeraba
Burleigh’s multi-use music, space hire and events hub, Mo’s Desert Clubhouse is a melting pot of goings-on and a principal meeting place for muso’s, movers and shakers and music lovers across the GC. The industrial-style venue is outfitted with a fully stocked bar and equally stacked gig guide, so refer back often and make sure you pencil in a date with Mo’s Desert Clubhouse ASAP.
Where: 6/36 Central Drive, Burleigh Heads
A fresh look is not the only thing Burleigh Town Hotel is boasting these days, also ‘drumming up’ a very solid live entertainment schedule studded with emerging bands and popular Aussie acts to get your ears around. There’s DJ’s and acoustic artists bringing tunes to the beer garden most weekends, along with with Punk, Motown and Pop themed tribute shows – where you can hit the d-floor to the likes of Ed Sheeran, Robbie Williams and queen Kylie (gold hot pants optional).
Where: Tsipura Drive, Burleigh Heads
This gem is a favourite among live music fans, having hosted a slew of local, national and international icons — but it also remains one of our best-kept secrets. Find your way down to Currumbin RSL, where, hidden just above, Soundlounge hosts acts from folk soloists and DJs to rock and roll bands. Listening to fantastic live music can be a hungry business, but this venue has you covered with food options, including pizza, an a la carte restaurant and bar snacks.
Where: 165 Duringan Street, Currumbin
Whether you’ve been catching world-class waves or lounging in the afternoon sun, Coolangatta — and specifically the Coolangatta Hotel — has long been known as one of the best for rounding out a perfect afternoon with live music. Being one of the Gold Coast’s largest live music venues, this OG frequently features both national and international touring bands and DJs on any given weekend. In between catching your fave big names, rock out to live, local tunes every Wed, Fri, Sat and Sun.
Where: Cnr Warner Street and Marine Parade, Coolangatta
For live music lovers, Twin Towns delivers in a big way. Home to a 1,000-seat, state-of-the-art Showroom, this Tweed Heads icon hosts an ever-changing lineup of acclaimed Australian and international artists, with both daytime and evening ticketed shows on the calendar. Beyond the big names, there’s more than 50 hours of free live entertainment every week, making it one of the premier live music venues on the Tweed and southern Gold Coast. Head to The Stage for complimentary performances from talented local and touring acts, and settle in for an easy, music-filled day or night out.
Where: 2 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads
Words by Belinda Symons
