Chris Waller is hoping his unconventional approach pays off as he saddles three runners in Saturday’s Group 1 Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm.

Leading his team is filly Belle Detelle, a three-quarter sister to Verry Elleegant, who Waller chose to target at the Derby over the Queensland Oaks.

Only two fillies have won the Derby since 2000, but Waller is backing Belle Detelle despite her tough draw of barrier 21 (likely to jump from 17).

“She got a long way back and she finished off well,” he said of her sixth in the Rough Habit Plate (2000m). “The barrier draw (is important)… doesn’t matter where you’re at.”

Rough Habit winner Imperalist will again be ridden positively after leading all the way last start at $61.

“Tommy Berry said ‘no, he’ll get further,’” Waller said.

Rounding out the trio is Existential Bob, a last-start Ipswich winner by Ocean Park.

“He needs to improve but he’s in there (with a chance) as well,” Waller added.

Belle Detelle is currently $7 second favourite behind Statuario at $5.