Queensland are facing the prospect of a large first innings deficit after their top-order failed to fire against Victoria on day two of the Sheffield Shield match at the MCG.
Queensland went to lunch at a shaky 3-35 and matters failed to improve during the middle session with the visitors limping to 6-125, still 182 runs short of Victoria's 307.
Mitch Perry struck a key blow after lunch by collecting a fine edge from a Bryce Street pull shot ending the gritty opener's innings on 34.
Debutant Victoria captain Will Sutherland was in action taking a catch from opposing skipper Jimmy Peirson (four) off the bowling of Cameron McClure.
Sutherland then ripped a superb delivery through the defences of Max Bryant as the dangerman fell for 38.
Fergus O'Neill starred during the morning session and has figures of 3-36.
With all the recognised batters back in the pavilion, Michael Neser remains not out on 20 with Xavier Bartlett on 16.
Queensland's showing with the bat was in contrast to their work with the ball during the morning session.
The Vics resumed at 6-282 only to be dismissed within half an hour having lost 4-25.
