Warrnambool was to host two hurdles and a steeplechase on April 6 but those races have been scrapped due to a delay in importing brush from France and to allow for more trials over the new obstacles.

Industry insiders have questioned Racing Victoria's commitment to jumps racing due to the latest delay.

Key points being raised include:

# Why has it taken so long to import brush?

# Where are the 4000m lead-up races to the Warrnambool carnival?

# Why are future contracts of racing chiefs not aligned with meeting jumps racing key performance indicators?

However, Warrnmambool Racing Club chairman Marg Lucas yesterday remained optimistic that jumps racing would be able to meet key criteria during the upcoming season, which now kicks off at Hamilton on April 17.

Lucas said she did not expect the latest changes to the racing schedule to impact on racing at the May carnival.

"Everyone is chugging along with the view of running horses at Oakbank and Warrnambool as usual," she said.

"The main changes will be to the hurdles, with the brush being imported from France and I understand there has been a delay in that process. The hurdles will demand more respect from the horses and riders and horses need to school over the hurdles before being eligible to race."

Lucas said it was sensible to go through the lengthy process to ensure the ongoing future of jumps racing.

"We need to tick all the boxes. It's less than ideal but trainers have had horses in work for some time and fitness will be an issue," she said.

"It's a bit disappointing that everything is taking so long to get organised but the club just has to go along and do everything we can to meet the key performance indicators," she said.

Lucas said the Warrnambool carnival would be a key test in ensuring the future of jumps racing.

"The May carnival will be crucial and we're looking forward to it," she said.

"I'm sure there will be terrific jumping.

"It might have been better with a better lead-in, but we'll work within the framework that is being set down.

"South Australia has been very active in supporting jumps racing and we thank them for their support."

Warrnambool is scheduled to host three hurdle trials and two steeplechases this Friday.

Yesterday Racing Victoria confirmed the jumps season start had been delayed.