Playing in the same group, the duo carded matching rounds of seven-under-par 63 in conditions perfect for scoring.

They lead by two from New South Welshman Justin Warren at five under, with Queensland's Christopher Wood and another NSW-based player, Andrew Evans, in a tie for fourth at four under.

Quayle was on fire early, turning in three-under par.

A hole-out eagle on the 2nd, (his 11th) saw him vault to five under and to a handy two-shot lead.

Two more birdies on the 6th and the 9th (his last hole) were enough to ensure lunch was going to be a pleasant experience.

Quayle was a happy man with his opening round, although he admitted he was still a little bit sore after completing the Cancer Council's Longest Day Challenge on Tuesday.

"No matter where you play or what you play in, and we haven't had much to play in this year, it always feels nice to be in the lead or round abouts." – Anthony Quayle

"I had reasonably low expectations, but the course is great, and I had good playing partners, so yeah, I finished nicely," he said.

Regardless of his thoughts on his chances, Quayle was glad to be in a share of the lead.

"No matter where you play or what you play in, and we haven't had much to play in this year, it always feels nice to be in the lead or round abouts," he said.

"It gets the juices flowing a bit and gives you a chance to compete, hole a putt under pressure or when you need to."

Lawson, playing alongside Quayle, wasn't to be outdone.

The European Tour member turned for home at two under – a shot back from Quayle.

After an untimely bogey on the 2nd (his 11th) where Quayle made eagle, Lawson dropped to four behind.

He quickly corrected the ship, however, with four straight birdies beginning at the next to get back to within a shot of the lead.

Twenty-nine players are at par or better after the opening round on the impressive Coffs Harbour layout.

With the weather predicted to be wet for Friday's final round, Officials have opted for a single, two-tee start with competitors playing in groups of four.