Patched-up stayer De Fine Lago ended the winning streak of short-priced favourite Cooldini to win the Banjo Paterson Series Final at Flemington.

The seven-year-old left Cooldini ($1.95) in his wake but had to withstand a strong finish from Outback Joe ($12), holding him off by a half neck.

Cooldini, chasing four straight city wins, finished six lengths away third.

Trainer Tony Vasil praised the ride of Jack Hill, saying he was the most improved hoop in Australia in the last 12 months.

"That was a perfect ride," Vasil said after the 2600-metre race.

"I told him to sit off Cooldini for as long as he can because he's got a great turn of foot."

De Fine Lago ($6) has had his health problems in the last year after injuring his suspensory and then almost dying from colic.

Vasil had considered taking De Fine Lago to the Grafton carnival which promised a bigger winner's cheque but said racing in your own backyard proved more attractive.