Protectionist, owned by Hunter syndicate Australian Bloodstock, will trial at Broadmeadow Racecourse in what will be the five-year-old stallion’s first real hit out since winning the famed two-mile race at Flemington in November. 

Bowman will steer Protectionist for  Newcastle trainer Kris Lees. 

Lees, who took the reigns of the German import from Andrea Wohler, has mapped out the next phase of racing for Protectionist for the upcoming autumn carnival.

Following today’s barrier trial Protectionist will head back to Victoria for the group 2 Peter Young Stakes at Caulfield on February 28 followed by the group 1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington a fortnight later.

Either the group 1 BMW or group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes would complete the campaign at The Championships at Randwick in early April.

English jockey Ryan Moore has expressed an interest in taking both major rides on Protectionist.

“Nothing is set in concrete yet but he is doing really well and if everything goes to plan these are the races we would be aiming at,” Lees said.

“He has settled into Broadmeadow exceptionally well and we are very happy with the progress.”

Bowman will back up after Protectionist with another trial for Lees on fellow group 1 winner and 2014 Melbourne Cup runner Lucia Valentina.

Protectionist will be first to trial at 8.30am.