Makybe began its breeding schedule at precisely 12.01am on September 1 when resident sire Purrealist covered his first mare of the season.

“We’re in business,” newly appointed stud manager Stephan Putter said.  “The season has well and truly started.”

Makybe legend Makybe Diva gave birth to a Lonhro colt last month at the Victorian nursery.  He will be one of the stars of the 2013 yearling sales.

Makybe Diva’s Galileo 4yo Rockstardom sold for $1.50 million, her Fusaichi Pegasus 3yo La Dolce Diva was knocked down for $1.20 million.  Makybe owner Tony Santic has retained the third, a 2yo colt by Encosta De Lago.

Makybe will foal down in excess of 80 mares this season before gearing up to present its biggest ever draft for the 2012 majors.

They include a colt out of Makybe Diva’s dam Tugela by Street Cry, a filly out of Black Caviar’s mother Helsinge by Redoute’s Choice and a colt by Lonhro out of Makybe Diva’s half sister Optimist.

The G2 Makybe Diva Stakes will be run at Flemington on Saturday.