Veteran Brett Rumford and former reality TV star Charlie Robbins set the mark early at Kalgoorlie Golf Course with rounds of five-under 67 but they were ultimately superseded by Croker, who birdied his final hole for a round of six-under 66.
New South Welshman Aaron Townsend had three birdies in his final four holes to join Rumford and Robbins at five-under, 16 players finishing day one within three strokes of the lead.
A member of the Australian team that will contest the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship at Royal Melbourne Golf Club in less than two weeks, Croker has taken up Affiliate Future Tour Membership of the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia.
As he gets closer to joining the professional ranks, Future Tour membership opens the door to obtaining a card for next season before having to forgo his amateur status.
With top-10 finishes at both…
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