Magic Millions Raceday is the biggest day on the Queensland racing calendar, and getting to and from the Gold Coast Turf Club in Bundall is the part most people underestimate. Parking fills early, and after the last race thousands of people try to leave at once. Here's how to plan your day, from a local private driver.
Key dates for January 2027
- Saturday 9 January: Magic Millions Gold twilight race meeting, Gold Coast Turf Club.
- Tuesday 12 January: Barrier draw on the Surfers Paradise foreshore (opposite Trickett Street), from 8 am, open to the public.
- Saturday 16 January: TAB Magic Millions Raceday, Gold Coast Turf Club, Racecourse Drive, Bundall.
Dates are from the official Magic Millions website. Check magicmillions.com.au for tickets, gate times and the full carnival program.
Why plan your transport early
On feature race days the Turf Club has recommended public transport, taxis, rideshare or being dropped off, because demand for parking is so high. In past years there have been dedicated drop-off and pick-up zones on Racecourse Drive. Transport details for 2027 haven't been published yet, so check closer to the day.
Your options
Courtesy bus
The Turf Club has run a free race day courtesy bus in past years, with stops including Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Coolangatta. Best for: anyone staying near a stop who doesn't mind a queue at the end of the day. Confirm the 2027 timetable with the club.
Public transport
The G:link tram doesn't stop at the racecourse, so you'll need a bus for at least part of the trip. Plan it with the Translink journey planner.
Taxi or Uber
Easy on the way in. The way home is harder: everyone leaves after the last race, so expect waits and surge pricing.
Private driver
I drop you at the gate, then collect you at a time we agree, so there's no parking, no queue and no hunting for a ride in your race day outfit. The fare is fixed before the day.
- Coming from further away: Brisbane, the Tweed, Byron Bay or the hinterland, door to door.
- Up to 3 passengers in a late-model Lexus RX 350h Luxury, cool and comfortable on a hot January day.
- Flexible pick-up: leave after the feature race or stay for the last. Message me on the day if your plans change.
- Twilight meeting: Magic Millions Gold runs into the evening, so a booked ride home is worth having.
Tips for the day
- Book early. Raceday is one of the busiest days of the year for drivers on the Gold Coast.
- Staying in the Tweed or Byron? Watch the time zone. In January, NSW is on daylight saving and an hour ahead of Queensland. Race times are in Queensland time.
- Agree on a pick-up point. I'll confirm the exact drop-off and pick-up spot once the 2027 arrangements are announced.
- Drink plenty of water. January on the Gold Coast is hot and humid, and race days are long.
Details here were checked against Magic Millions information in November 2026. Event details can change, so check the official website before you go.
Flying in for the carnival? Read the Gold Coast Airport arrivals guide or the Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast guide.