Hartnell will head to Melbourne to begin his next campaign in the Group One C F Orr Stakes after pleasing Godolphin trainer James Cummings in a barrier trial.

The seven-year-old finished a head second to Testashadow over 1000 metres at Warwick Farm on Thursday in his first public appearance since he was unplaced in the Melbourne Cup.

"He was wonderful in his action and attacked the line well," Cummings said in a Godolphin video update.

"I'm happy with the way he pulled up.

"He'll be on the float next week to run in the C F Orr Stakes over 1400 (metres)."

The Orr Stakes is at Caulfield on Saturday week.

In his first start for Cummings last spring, Hartnell won the Group Two P B Lawrence Stakes over the course and distance of the Orr.