Chris Waller was keen to see Island Dream prove herself worthy of tougher competition, and the filly answered the call with a strong victory at Rosehill.

The homebred daughter of 2016 Group 1 Caulfield Guineas (1600m) winner Divine Prophet is now being considered for the Group 3 Kembla Grange Classic (1600m).

Island Dream ($14) produced a determined effort to take out the Ranvet Handicap (1500m), defeating previously unbeaten Atelier ($6) by a length, with Spaceballs ($2.80) finishing in third.

“She needed to step up from her maiden win, and she has,” Waller said, referencing her recent victory at Hawkesbury on February 12.

“She hit the line well, keeps improving, and has earned her shot at a race like the Kembla Grange Classic.”

Jockey Kerrin McEvoy, who had ridden the filly in trials, was pleased with her progression.

“She showed a sharp turn of foot at Hawkesbury, so I wasn’t surprised by her effort today,” McEvoy said.

“She’s still learning, but she’s willing and may get even further in trip.”

With the Kembla Grange Classic approaching on March 14, Island Dream’s win was the third for Waller’s stable in the first four races at Rosehill.

Later on the card, Imperial Force delivered an eye-catching victory, handing trainer Bjorn Baker a double in the first five races. The promising three-year-old looks set for bigger things.

Bought for $285,000 through Inglis Digital by Darby Racing, the son of Snitzel wasted no time making his mark, scoring his first win since transferring to Baker from Waller.