It looks like the days of long-distance travelling are behind Charterhouse, as the Ciaron Maher-trained import is set to stay put in Melbourne this winter.

The former Irish galloper is scheduled to return in the Thoroughbred Club Of Australia Handicap (1400m) at Caulfield on Saturday, with connections opting to focus on local targets for the rest of his preparation.

After making a solid impact during his first Australian campaign, including a standout win in the Cranbourne Cup on rain-affected ground, Charterhouse was tested in both Queensland and New South Wales earlier this year with mixed results.

Now back in Victoria, Maher’s team is eyeing the Winter Championship Series as the gelding’s main goal — a series where he finished second in the final at Flemington last year.

“He’s tracking well, but we’ve had to be patient,” said assistant trainer Jack Turnbull.

“He had a solid spell, we’ve gone back to basics with him and tried to reboot the system.”

“He wasn’t putting in 100 percent late last prep, and the signs on race day supported that, so we opted to give him a full break and reset.”

“He’s done a lot of groundwork since, and we’re confident he won’t be short on fitness. Now it’s about seeing where his mindset is.”

“Physically he’s spot on, but this weekend will tell us if he’s switched on and ready to compete.”

Turnbull identified Charterhouse’s second placing behind Torranzino in the Country Cup (2000m) at Caulfield last November as one of his most courageous efforts, despite the distance potentially testing his limits.

“We learned that he can handle up to 2000 metres, but when kept sharp, he’s probably best around the mile to 1800-metre mark,” Turnbull said.

“This campaign, we’re keeping him in Melbourne and the Winter Championship will be his focus.”

“That’s the reasoning behind getting him going again now.”

Punters looking for value in the early markets will want to keep an eye on Charterhouse’s return — a win here could shorten his odds for feature winter targets. Check out the top Australian betting sites for the latest odds and promotions.