Salty Pearl is arguably the sturdiest filly being trained, courtesy of Ciaron Maher’s stable.

Post a challenging spring yielding Group 2 wins, the ever-reliable filly aims for Group 1 in the Australasian Oaks (2000m) at Morphettville Saturday.

This will be the filly’s sixth start this prep, from a January launch, after four spring appearances.

Quick backups have suited her before, but the forthcoming travel will underscore her toughness.

Exclusively Melbourne-based to date, she went to Sydney most recently, third in Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes (2000m) at Rosehill March 28, then to Adelaide a month later for Oaks duty.

Jack Turnbull, Ciaron Maher Racing’s National Assistant Trainer, revealed they’ll halt en route at Ballarat for the Adelaide leg.

“It is hard to travel and maintain form, but she did it for Sydney and the question mark is whether she can back up in Adelaide,” Turnbull said.

“We can break the trip up by stopping over in Ballarat and then it’s only five hours from there, so it’s not a huge ask.

“She’s just a wonderful horse to train.

“She’s incredibly consistent. She doesn’t take any extra work to manage. She’s hardy to train, which is fantastic.

“She had a jump-out last week and ran a really good race in the Vinery, so she will head to the Oaks.”

Paltrow Miss, from the same stable, provides a stark experience contrast in the Oaks field.

Saturday sees the filly’s fourth lifetime run, from New Zealand origins to Maher, debut win Sandown, next second Caulfield.

“She’s obviously a lot less experienced, but profiles as a horse that warrants going over there,” Turnbull said.

“She still has a bit to learn, but she’s showing good ability.

“It will be tough for her, but she’s only three once, it’s the right time of year, so we’ll give her that chance.”

Ben Allen sticks with Salty Pearl, Craig Williams aboard Paltrow Miss.

Betting fans should check betting sites for the keenest prices on Australasian Oaks action.