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Nature Strip has taken the first formal step in his Everest campaign with a Rosehill barrier trial win.

Chris Waller has given Nature Strip the thumbs up after the top sprinter cruised around Rosehill to open his Everest preparations with an effortless barrier trial win. 

In his first public appearance of the season, Nature Strip bounced straight to the front for Glyn Schofield and settled well for the comeback jockey to take out his 900m heat by 6-1/2 lengths over stablemate Subpoenaed. 

Waller was particularly happy with the way the multiple Group One winner relaxed in the run. 

"Very happy. He's come back well," Waller said. 

"It was Nature Strip at his best really. He was very controlled. He didn't take off and want to go too fast. 

"Glyn said he was in his hands all the way and it was just a nice, routine workout." 

Nature Strip has been confirmed to represent the Everest slot held by Chris Waller Racing. 

It will be his third shot at the $15 million race after he finished fourth to Yes Yes Yes in 2019 and midfield behind Classique Legend 12 months ago. 

While he had a winless spring last year, Nature Strip was back to his brilliant best in the autumn to claim the Black Caviar Lightning Stakes first-up. 

He was narrowly edged out by Eduardo in the Challenge Stakes but was back on top to defend his T J Smith Stakes crown. 

He is an early $5 favourite for the Everest, ahead of Classique Legend at $6. 

Group 2 placegetter Joyous Legend was also an impressive winner of her 900m heat at Rosehill on Thursday and has been earmarked to resume in the Furious Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on Saturday week.