Griffiths' first win came in race two with Laguna Vista saluting ahead of the Darren Weir-trained Street Allure.

This was backed up two races later when hoop Dean Holland guided Va Hala home in race four to gift the trainer the only double of the day.

The Ararat Turf Club picked up the Monday meeting after it was transferred from the Colac Race Club last year due to its track undergoing remedial works in the first half of 2014.

The Ararat committee moved the rail out two metres prior to the meeting following six consecutive race meets in the true position for this season.

Ararat Turf Club manager Adam Atchison said last year the rail movement was three metres at this time, but given the lack of natural rainfall over summer the width of grass proper on the track is not as wide as 2013.

The club has purchased a number of soaker hoses and are continually watering the straight to ensure the track is even across its width.

The next meeting at NMIT Ararat Park is the annual TM Slattery Willaura Cup race day to be held on Sunday, April 27.

Residents in the Willaura region can pick up their free admission tickets from the Willaura or Lake Bolac Post Office. These tickets include free drink and food voucher, race book, merchandise and entry into the Willaura marquee.

For more information on the Willaura Cup, see a later edition of The Ararat Advertiser.