Ernie Els made a blistering start to lead the Johnnie Walker Classic in Perth, where Ireland's Paul McGinley played himself into contention with a fine opening 67.
Els reached the turn in a seven-under-par 29, having sunk five birdies and an eagle on the par-five fifth to lead before consolidating with an inward half of one-under for an opening 64 to lead by one shot from England's David Lynn in second on seven-under.
McGinley, returning to competition after a long winter break, carded no less than eight birdies, and three bogeys, for a share of fourth with five others including Wales' Ian Woosnam and Australian Peter O'Malley.
Els jetted off to Bali with his young family following his dramatic last-hole victory at the Heineken Classic in Melbourne 11 days ago, but the touch that won him four titles in five starts recently was not lost during a week off in the sun.
The 'Big Easy' picked up at Lake Karrinyup County Club in scintillating form today to birdie his first three holes after teeing off on the 10th.
He parred the 13th, his fourth - before a run of birdie, eagle, birdie took him to seven under after seven holes.
"I really felt in the groove out there today," said Els, "especially on the back nine."
"It's probably the best I've played in recent weeks and it's not the easiest course to play on."
The players had complained the greens were too slow and not up to the standards of last year - but rising temperatures in Perth will surely dry them out.
England's Paul Casey, who won the ANZ Championship in Sydney last week, was not enjoying quite such a profitable day - carding an opening one under 71.
Spain's Sergio Garcia teed off with Thomas Bjorn, allaying fears he could be forced out of the tournament with a hamstring injury picked up while kicking Australian Rules footballs in a promotional stunt.
The Spaniard struggled to an opening 74 while the Dane moved to within four shots of the lead with today's 68.