McLean admits Blackie is running out of his class in the 1200-metre group 2 race but said it’s an ideal lead-in for two listed races in Tasmania next month for the lightly raced galloper.

“Blackie would have to run up to his best to win the Australia Stakes,” McLean said. 

“It’s always a tough race and this year is no different. I was quite happy with his first-up run in the Standish Handicap. 

He’s shown a real liking for Moonee Valley during his career,” he said. 

“We could have gone to Sandown with him on Monday but you normally get a bit of give in the Valley track that would suit him. He’s had a lot of niggling injury problems over his career but they are behind him now. He’s in really good shape.”

The $100,000 Thomas Lyons Stakes at Hobart on Feburary 9 and the $100,000 George Adams to be run at Launceston on February 25 are the next two goals after the Australia Stakes for the underrated horse.

“I’ve got my fingers crossed there might be a break in the weather over in Tasmania for both those races.,” McLean said. “Blackie’s best form is on ground with a bit of give in it. The 1400 metres of the Lyons and the 1600 metres of the George Adams should really suit him at that time of his campaign.”

Western District trainers will have a strong representation at the Moonee Valley meeting. Symon Wilde has multiple entries in Gold Medals, Decoupez and Tycoon Tara while Matthew Williams will run Done Nothin’ Wrong, Turnitaround and Artie’s Shore.  Ciaron Maher saddles up Chiquada. Terang-trained Maasai Justice runs in a 1000-metre race for Jock McArthur and Corstons Beau makes his debut for McLean after running in the Northern Territory. 

Scarlet Billows and Clevadude will spearhead Darren Weir’s Warrnambool satellite stables hopes on a tough program for punters.