Mendip Spring's Luke Collins made a magnificent recovery after a wretched start in the 72-hole Federal Cup tournament on his first trip to Australia.

Everything looked bleak when he carded 81 in the opening round the day following the sponsor's day team event over the Canberra course where kangaroos roam freely.

He was in grave danger of missing the cut as only half the field of 170, including the leading players in Australia and many from Asia and New Zealand, remained for the final two rounds at the Canberra course.

But Somerset county regular Collins, who plays off plus three, replied with a stunning 66. He followed with 71 and 72 for a two-over par total of 290 to share 27th place, 14 shots behind the winner.