Astute Tamworth trainer Barry Lockwood is confident Outback Dream can surge into the winners' list, starting at Lismore today.
The well-bred Choisir 3-year-old filly, who weighs in at 530kg, tackles the Lismore Come To The Heart Maiden Handicap (1100m) first-up with gun Gold Coast jockey Chris Whiteley in the saddle.
Outback Dream had four starts at her initial campaign and while she didn't post a win she ran some cracking races.
"She has promised to do it but hasn't managed to win yet," Lockwood said.
"She's a good type, a big, strong filly who I believe has got a good future.
"She won a trial on her ear at Newcastle before her first start then got pipped at Grafton.
"Last campaign, through unsuitable tracks and whatnot, I wasn't able to give her the gallops she needed.
"This time in she has matured and is a better filly. She has had a nice preparation.
"If she can toughen up a bit more I think she'll have a good campaign."
Outback Dream is raced by Graham Diamond and Peter Shanahan who own food outlet Outback Jacks in Tamworth.
"Graham has a number of horses with Sydney trainers including Gai Waterhouse," Lockwood said.
"They send me up a couple of horses. We've had a bit of luck together."
While Outback Dream hasn't trialled ahead of her return, Lockwood has her a jump-out.
Outback Dream will jump from three and will carry 58kg.
- AAP