Trainer Robert Heathcote gave jockey Damian Browne the ultimate compliment after Fire Up Fifi won the Centenary Mercedes-Benz Mile at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Browne seized the initiative when the pace slackened in the middle stages to take Fire Up Fifi ($3.70) to the front and control the tempo.

The mare repelled a determined challenge from Conservatorium ($4.60) to win by a short neck with the favourite Someday ($3.10) 2-1/2 lengths away third.

"That's the reason I rate Damian Browne right up with the best jockeys in the country," Heathcote said.

"His ride today was a ten out of ten. It's as simple as that."

Heathcote admitted he didn't expect Fire Up Fifi to lead but backed Browne's judgment.

"When Someday went to front I thought wow that's one from left field and then lo and behold Damian was in front a few strides later," he said.

"But he invariably makes the right call and did so again today."

Heathcote plans to spell Fire Up Fifi before aiming her at the spring carnival.

"She'll have one run in Sydney then head to Melbourne for the Blazer at Flemington and ultimately the Myer Classic during Cup week at Flemington," he said.

"I love the courage she showed today to fight off Conservatorium who's in a purple patch of form."

Browne was confident Fire Up Fifi would fend off the runner-up.

"I was actually happy to let Conservatorium get to within a neck of me at the furlong because I knew the fight and courage she would show," he said.

"She's a dream for a trainer and jockey to be associated with because she gives one hundred and ten per cent every time."