WHATELEY (8) returns after nine months in the paddock. Closed the last campaign with a seventh over 1m in the LR Taj Rossi (Gibson Carmichael) Final at Flemington. Looks up to the mark following a trial win at Cranbourne. Has ability and sure to prove tough to beat. JUMPIN' JEWELLETTE (9) showed promise on debut last time out when in the money over 6f at Swan Hill, beaten 0.8 lengths. Sure to take a lot from that hitout so a big run is anticipated. THE DEFENDER (4) is close to breaking through after three consecutive placings, the latest coming when second over 5½f at Avoca. Wide draw and will need a good steer from Joe Bowditch. Meets some better types this time but he has the talent to test this line-up. NEBUCHADNEZZAR (6) has put together back-to-back placings, the latest when 3 lengths away in third over 5f at Ballarat. Finds a suitable race and can feature in the finish.