New Zealand apprentice James McDonald hopes to mark another successful chapter in his short career when he makes his Australian debut at the Gold Coast on Saturday.He has five rides at the meeting including Kiwi stayer Izonit in the 1800-metre Group Two Hollindale Stakes.McDonald, who plans to link up with leading New Zealand trainer Mark Walker as the stable's No.1 rider from August 1, won the Group Three Manawatu Classic (2000m) on the three-year-old in record time at Awapuni on March 28.The 1

New Zealand apprentice James McDonald hopes to mark another successful chapter in his short career when he makes his Australian debut at the Gold Coast on Saturday.

He has five rides at the meeting including Kiwi stayer Izonit in the 1800-metre Group Two Hollindale Stakes.

McDonald, who plans to link up with leading New Zealand trainer Mark Walker as the stable's No.1 rider from August 1, won the Group Three Manawatu Classic (2000m) on the three-year-old in record time at Awapuni on March 28.

The 17-year-old is the leading rider in New Zealand but only began his career 22 months ago.

He booted home a double at Hastings on Thursday to take his tally of winners in his career to 182.

Among them have been two Group Ones, on Jungle Rocket in the New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham in March and Special Mission in the Breeders Stakes (1600m) at Te Aroha in April last year.

He will also ride Jungle Rocket when the Queensland Oaks-bound filly makes her Australian debut in Saturday's Listed Gold Coast Bracelet (1800m).

McDonald was born into the racing game following his parents involvement with horses.

"My father is a trainer in New Zealand and Mum used to ride a lot of show ponies," he said from New Zealand.

"I've been around horses all my life.

"I rode my first horse when I was eight and I rode my first racehorse when I was 10.

"I'm excited about riding at the Gold Coast. I've got some good rides and I can't wait to get there."

McDonald, who outrode his claim 13 months ago, acknowledged the great help he has received from his peers.

"Michael Walker has been a great help to me and hopefully I can follow in his footsteps," he said.

"I follow Hong Kong races closely and one of my favourites up there is Brett Prebble."

Izonit is trained at Matamata by Wayne Hillis who will also be looking for his first Australian winner in the Hollindale Stakes.

"I've been to Australia a few times but I haven't had any luck as yet," Hillis said.

"I brought Izonit's full-brother, Dezigna, to Queensland four years ago and he had five starts for three placings including the Sir Byrne Hart Stakes.

"Before that I brought Captain Kurt to Queensland but his career finished when he bled for a second time when he ran third in the Gold Coast Guineas.

"I've also had a starter in Sydney and ran third in the AJC Oaks with Boulevardofdreams five years ago."

Hillis doesn't underestimate the challenge Izonit faces in the Hollindale Stakes ahead of his main mission, the Group One Queensland Derby (2400m) at Eagle Farm in June.

"It's his biggest test so far and it will be good if he can win a Group race in Australia for the day he eventually stands at stud," Hillis said.