BADGERS NUTS (7) has been freshened up since finishing a very close second in an open sprint over 1400m at the Gold Coast seven weeks ago. That built on an outstanding record at seven furlongs. Only needs luck from the awkward draw to be right in the finish. CHANGE THE DATE (9) worked over from a wide gate to lead but found little under pressure at the end of 1350m at Wyong eight days ago. Loves racing here, thrives on wet tracks, and he has won four of eight at today's journey so his profile is hard to knock. FLYING BIRDS (8) returned from a nine-week break with a respectable effort over 1200m at the Gold Coast recently, beaten just three lengths after settling out the back. Strips fitter and drops sharply in the weights. Likely improver. LADY SOAMES (10) has done very little in her four runs this prep, all at or about 1200m. Worth one more chance out to this distance. NICKELBACK (12) went close here at this trip last start and is a serious contender.