Champion mare Black Caviar has thrilled a huge Moonee Valley crowd with an effortless display to stretch her winning record to 17.

She had just five rivals in the Group Two Australia Stakes and left them in her wake as she strode clear at the top of the straight.

The highest rated sprinter in the world, Black Caviar was having her first start since November and the race was the starting point in a campaign aimed at Royal Ascot in June.

Although she made it look easy, the mare ran the 1200 metres in a slick 1min09.44sec.

For her trainer Peter Moody, the result was as usual one of relief.

“It’s great to see her back in great shape,” Moody said.

“Hopefully it’s the start of a great six months.

Jockey Luke Nolen said he was humbled just to sit astride the mare.

“She is an awesome talent and I thank God every day that I get to sit on her,” he said.