LUCKY NEKO (8) is back after a break of five months. Went close to a maiden win before the layoff, finishing third at her latest appearance over 1250m at Ballina. Launched last prep with a minor placing at Murwillumbah over 1010m. Tuned up with a sixth in a recent trial at Beaudesert. Has ability and can get off the mark. OL' MATE COOP (12) showed ability at his only start back on January 12 when third over 800m at Coffs Harbour. Likely improver and another bold showing is on the cards. SHIRLEY PEARLY (16) is a four-year-old mare on debut from the stable of Marcus Wilson. By Saxon Warrior from Short Wick. Comes here off a Beaudesert trial placing. Watch for a betting push. DIRTY DOES IT (11) is a gelding by Endless Drama out of Red Hand who is at the races for the first time today. Didn’t do a lot in most recent trial. Worth watching for a betting move.