The Gai Waterhouse-trained Vaquera scored a good first-up win, resuming after her third in the Queensland Oaks (Gr 1, 2400m) at Eagle Farm in June. She settled well back in the 16-horse field and was giving the leader about ten lengths at the 600m point. She switched wide passing the 400m and commenced a long finishing run. She then came with a lateclosing bid, wide out, to grab a last-stride win. Gold Epona raced in about eighth place, but trapped wide. She moved up nicely after turning for home, challenged (with a large group of runners) midstretch and fought on well for a close second. Cameo had a good run in fifth spot on the rails, following a fast pace (set by Just A Girl). She took a narrow lead at the 100m and fought on a closeup third in a photo finish for all-placings. The favourite Lilliburlero worked from her wide barrier (14) before crossing to travel in fifth place. She put in a run at the 200m and then fought on to finish sixth, beaten only a length and half, in a packed finish. *ANZ