Three-year-old filly Bellatrix Star is poised to make her Australian debut in the Group 3 Quezette Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield on Saturday. Trained by Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, and managed in Melbourne by Ben Gleeson, the filly brings strong New Zealand form to her first Australian race.

In-demand jockey Michael Dee has shown confidence in Bellatrix Star after riding her in a jumpout and trackwork at Cranbourne, opting to stick with her for the Quezette Stakes. “He’s been very pleased with her and wants to stick with her, which says a lot,” said Gleeson.

Bellatrix Star had an impressive two-year-old season in New Zealand, winning two of her five starts, including the Group 2 Eclipse Stakes at Pukehoe. She also finished fourth in the prestigious Karaka Millions, competing closely with top-rated horses like Velocious.

After spending nearly a month settling in at Cranbourne, Bellatrix Star has had jumpouts both in New Zealand and Australia. Gleeson mentioned that early in her career, the filly had a tendency to over-race, but she has since learned to settle better. “She’s settling now. Touch wood she does that on Saturday and if she does, it could open the door for 1400m,” he added.

With strong New Zealand form and positive preparation, Bellatrix Star is well-positioned for an impressive Australian debut, with hopes of making an impact in the Quezette Stakes and beyond.

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