Wyong Gold Cup winner Wazn heads a list of early nominations for next week's Group 3 Newcastle Cup.

Chris Waller is eyeing his first success in the race but his fast-finishing stayer will need to be at his best with the likes of Ghost Protocol, Ironstein, Praecido and Winning Glory all heading towards the race.

In-form Brisbane stayer Flying Home is also likely to feature, looking to become the first Queenslander to claim the Newcastle Cup since Bikkie Tin Blues in 2006.

Waller is also targeting the Listed Cameron Handicap (1400m) with Altius and I'm Imposing amongst the early nominations.

Bjorn Baker is planning on taking Cantonese and Havana Rey into the Cameron while there could also be a Queensland flavour to this with Barry Lockwood potentially coming down with Tokamak.

Local trainer Kris Lees is eyeing a big carnival with a strong hand of talented gallopers.

Imported pair Salon Soldier and Pirate Bay have been nominated for the Cameron while Gold Epona, Sharnee Rose and Soapy Star for the Group 3 Tibbie Stakes (1400m).

The Spring Stakes (1600m), won by Proisir last year, is shaping as another cracking race with Wordplay, Fuerza and Vilanova amongst the early nominations.