English trainer Michael Bell is already thinking about a return for a second shot at winning the Melbourne Cup with Big Orange after the stayer's fifth placing at Flemington.

Big Orange ($61) was Bell's first runner in an Australian race and the gelding stayed on for fifth after leading in Tuesday's 3200m event won by Prince Of Penzance.

"It's been a great experience and the horse has done us proud. I thought Jamie (Spencer) gave him a fantastic ride. He ran all the way to the line.

"I was slightly worried the fifty-five and a half (kilograms) would be a little bit punchy to win off, but he's absolutely run his heart out."

Bell, an English Derby-winning trainer with Motivator in 2005, said was keen to return to Flemington next year.

"I think we're all keen to come back as long as the owner, who is at home, agrees," Bell said.

"But his son Tim is here and we're already talking about coming back."

Big Orange is owned by 83-year-old Bill Gredley and his son Tim, who was at Flemington.

Bell said the owner had been contacted and was delighted with the performance and said the plan seems to be to return with Big Orange in 2016 with next month's Japan Cup next on the radar followed by Dubai.