Dear Demi has given her potential Australian Oaks rivals a warning with a short-course victory in the Group Two Surround Stakes at Warwick Farm.

The VRC Oaks-winning filly came from behind to win while favourite Bennetta was found wanting at her first test at 1400 metres.

With Jim Cassidy riding hard, Dear Demi ($6.50) sustained her run from the top of the straight to beat Driefontein ($7) by a neck with Longport ($14) another 2-1/2 lengths third.

Bennetta finished fifth, 2-1/2 lengths behind the winner.

Trainer Clarry Conners was in Melbourne where Satin Shoes finished among the tail-enders in the Newmarket Handicap but owner John Singleton was trackside in Sydney to see his latest star win.

"It's bloody fantastic," Singleton said.

"She's going to the Coolmore then the Vinery and then to the Oaks.

"She is one good filly and Jimmy rode her well. He had a couple of hiccups in the spring but I'm happy with him today."

Singleton has ambitions beyond the autumn and is looking to the major Cups in the spring.

"Who knows?" he said.

"The Caulfield Cup, the Melbourne Cup. Clarry has always had a high opinion of her and she has come back in great shape."

Cassidy said Dear Demi was stronger than the spring.

"She's got a bigger backside and a bigger engine," he said.

"I couldn't be happier."

Conners son Marc upheld the family tradition at their home track when Didntcostalot won the final race on Chipping Norton Stakes day.

The gelding will now be aimed at stakes company after winning a benchmark 95 race over 1100 metres.