Group 1 winner Benedetta will press on to the Kingsford-Smith Cup following her solid fourth-place effort in the Doomben 10,000.
Trainer Jason Warren said the mare struggled on the rain-affected track but still produced a performance full of merit.
“(She’s) come through the run well,” Warren told racing.com.
“We were rapt with her effort. Unfortunately, we hit a very Heavy track.”
Jockey Jamie Mott noted she “didn’t handle that track for a stride,” making her narrow defeat all the more impressive.
Warren remains confident heading into the 1300m Group 1 feature, hoping for firmer footing.
He also hinted at a potential Stradbroke tilt, noting the weight conditions will now favour her after Saturday’s result.
Joining Benedetta in Queensland is stablemate Flyer, who finished second in the Group 3 Proud Miss Stakes.
“She’s in great shape and she’ll run well,” Warren said, confirming a Dane Ripper Stakes target.