The time-honoured $3 million Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap. WAR MACHINE (7) has been super impressive in all three runs since joining the Hayes barn and looks to be on an upward trajectory. Has won three from four over this seven-furlong journey and only needs some luck slotting in from the widish draw to be right there at the business end. GOLDEN MILE (6) looked the winner at one stage in the Kingsford Smith Cup last weekend and seems to be back to a semblance of form. Maps perfectly from gate two and another strong performance is on the cards. RISE AT DAWN (13) will be better for that first-up hit-out and is another to draw favourably. Top-three prospects on best efforts. THE INFLICTOR (16) has been racing well in lesser company and has earned his shot at this grade now. Can fill the frame with any luck in running. The old boy ROTHFIRE (2) showed he still had some life in his legs last time out and gets McDonald on to navigate from the sticky draw. Next in line.