The promising Messene made it nine wins from 12 starts with an impressive win in this Group Two event. He began well, raced in second place until into the straight. He easily went to the lead on passing the 300m mark and then raced away to win by two and three quarter lengths, looking now to have sound claims in the upcoming Doncaster Mile (Gr 1, 1600m). The French-bred import Weary was second last in the nine-horse field to the turn. He was hard ridden on straightening but kept responding, running on well late to claim second in an encouraging effort at his second Australian start. Malavio was back in sixth place, between runners. He got into the clear at the 300m and then ran on nicely for a good third. Ecuador ($3.50) went straight to the lead, as usual, and set a good pace until headed after the 300m. He then held on fairly well for fourth, beaten three and a half lengths. Monton battled on fairly well for fifth while the stayer Less Is More ($51) made ground from last at the turn, putting up a sound first-up effort for sixth. *ANZ