Bernie Miller is counting down the days until the return of Western Australia’s breakout sprint star Jokers Grin, who is back in work and thriving ahead of a major spring campaign.

The talented four-year-old made headlines in April when flashing home to win the inaugural $5 million Quokka, a career-defining moment for both Miller and jockey Pat Carbery.

Jokers Grin’s victory was especially memorable as he became the first WA-trained horse to win the slot race, ending Overpass’ unbeaten streak on Western Australian soil. Overpass, a dual winner of the Quokka and the Winterbottom Stakes, could only manage fifth on the day.

Miller is delighted with how Jokers Grin has returned from his break. “He’s in his sixth week of work and is progressing superbly. He looks a picture and I reckon he’s put on around 50kg since his spell,” Miller said.

“He’ll spend another week at home before heading to Ascot to start fast work. I’m thrilled with how he’s come back.”

From just 10 starts, Jokers Grin has recorded seven wins, two seconds and over $2.2 million in earnings, never finishing worse than fourth.

The gelding is being set for the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m) on November 29, with his campaign kicking off in the Group 3 Colonel Reeves Stakes (1100m) earlier that month. A tilt at the Group 3 The Gold Rush (1400m) on December 13 is also on the radar.

“The plan is Reeves, then the Winterbottom and hopefully the Gold Rush. I think he’ll handle 1400 metres,” Miller said.

Reflecting on his Quokka win, Miller added: “It still gives me goosebumps. It was just such a surreal moment, and I’ll be forever grateful to everyone who supported us. It’s something I’ll never forget.”