DARK STRATUM (8) is a nine-start maiden who went close to shedding the tag last time when second over 1600m at Warwick Farm. Close to a win and gets his chance here. SHANGRI LA IMPACT (5) raced handy on debut last start and gave a good sight, holding on for second and beaten a nose over 1400m at Kembla Grange. Improver who looks a major player. DARK ARTS (2) has been in the placings at his last two starts, finishing second last time when he was prominent throughout over 1600m at Hawkesbury. Nicely placed to play a pivotal role. BARBRAY (3) is a two-start maiden who was unplaced on debut then improved to finish third last time over 1600m at Hawkesbury, beaten 1.75 lengths. Further improvement to come.