Best bet | Race 6 #16 Gypsy Goddess

I reckon jockey William Pike will be super-focussed on redemption with this girl after she found one better at Group 1 level last start in the ATC Oaks. The run before that in Sydney was also a ripper, running third in the Group One Vinery. She’s now been brought back to Queensland and the only way I see her losing is if she’s flat from the trip south. A soft or heavy track will be no issue, and I’m sure Pike will ride her a touch colder than last start, especially with the Queensland Oaks her main aim. Should just be winning.

Next best | Race 5 #6 April Rain

Qualify filly who has the turn of foot and strong finish of a horse with group ability. She’s yet to fulfil that ability but gets a good chance here to pick up some black type in a very even race. The gate looks a bit sticky on paper but she should be in the right part of the track coming into the straight, and the engagement of James McDonald is an obvious positive. Her official record shows no heavy track form but there’s a couple of runs / trials which suggest she can get through the wet. Class should prevail here.

Best each-way | Race 4 #14 Stroll

I’ve got a lot of time for this Snitzel filly and wouldn’t be surprised to see her run a huge race first-up at a big price. The O’Dea / Hoysted stable is flying and I know they had high hopes for Stroll last prep, with the rich Magic Millions feature on the radar. I liked her recent trial and last prep she gave the impression of a raw, progressive filly who would really come onto her own over time. She handles a soft track, but it’s likely to be heavy by race time, so we’ll just have to see if she handles it (like most others in the race). Happy to find out at the price.