Fieldmaster had to settle for second in last year's Australian Hurdle and the classy jumper will be out to go one better on Sunday as he chases his first feature win this campaign.

Trainer Patrick Payne says the gelding is in good shape for the Australian Hurdle at Ballarat as he attempts to improve on his second placing to Gotta Take Care in the 2014 renewal at Sandown.

Fieldmaster, winner of the 2014 JJ Houlahan Hurdle after his Australian Hurdle placing, fell in the Galleywood Hurdle at Warrnambool in his first jumps start of the year.

Despite that mishap, Payne believes the gelding is on target for a successful campaign and was pleased with his performance on the flat last Saturday at Flemington when eighth in the Andrew Ramsden Stakes.

"We're pretty happy with his progress this preparation and although he tipped over at Warrnambool, we thought he would have a pretty good preparation," Payne said.

"He's got a lot of energy and a lot of life at a jump. He's a very powerful jumper so he can get to the other side very quick which is important with the hurdles these days."

Fieldmaster is at $3.20 with Arch Fire at $4.80 and Beer Garden and Tuscan Fire at $6.

The Grand National Hurdle is the main aim for Fieldmaster but Payne said he wouldn't rule out a start in the Grand National Steeplechase.