Chris Waller is relieved the conditions that hindered Via Sistina in last year’s Makybe Diva Stakes won’t be repeated at Flemington this weekend.

Twelve months ago, rain and hail turned the track heavy, and Via Sistina finished fifth behind Mr Brightside — the only time she has missed a placing in 12 Australian starts. Since then, she has claimed nine Group 1 wins and was crowned Australian Champion Racehorse of the Year.

A Good 4 surface is already in place for Saturday, with a fine day forecast. Waller said the mare has had the same preparation as last year, only this time without the icy interruption.

“Last year there was a lot of hail, and I wouldn’t expect that again,” Waller said.

Stablemate Aeliana, runner-up to Via Sistina in the Winx Stakes, will also contest the race, while Lazzura lines up in the Group 2 Let’s Elope Stakes.

Both mares are being targeted at longer 2000m races later in the spring.