The picture-perfect Gold Coast. Home to some of Australia's best beaches and most adventurous theme parks.

Yet there was no sightseeing or frolicking in the sun as the Magpies hit the Sunshine state on Monday afternoon.

This was indeed a business trip.

The players headed straight to Southport Football Club, where a daunting skills session awaited.

In 30-degree heat, with roaring winds, the group was put to the test in front of a handful of interested onlookers.

One ball drill ended before a block of running immediately took its place. Also thrown in was match simulation, with a Scott Pendlebury-led 'black team' taking on Taylor Adams' 'pink Pies'.

Collingwood Media was on hand to capture all the action from Southport. You can view the best photos in the gallery below.



Former Sydney Swan Sam Murray checks out surroundings at the Southport Sharks Football Club.



New territory, no problems for captain Scott Pendlebury.



A pair of leaders lead the way.



Three defenders and a midfielder as Adam Treloar (far right) joins Tom Langdon, Lynden Dunn and Tyson Goldsack.



The Langdon headband makes it's 2018 debut.



Jarryd Blair has a tall task to contend with in ruckman Brodie Grundy.



On the track or with the ball in hand, Tom Phillips is a hard man to catch.



Phillips, Chris Mayne, Jaidyn Stephenson and Brayden Maynard talk tactics.



Draftee Stephenson fires out a handball as Tyson Goldsack closesly watches on.



Taylor Adams has the group's full attention.



Pure class from Travis Varcoe.



A painful way to end a gruelling session.