Harness Racing Victoria has enacted its Extreme Weather Policy, drawing on information from the Victorian Government and agencies such as the Country Fire Authority and Vic Emergencies.

Fires to the north of Ararat have prompted the cancellation, which HRV CEO Matt Isaacs said was a "decision that was not made lightly".

"HRV must consider the welfare of our participants, both people and horses, and while the temperature is high it isn't the issue, it is the extreme fire ratings for the regions surrounding this race meeting that are prompting the cancellation."

HRV's Extreme Weather Policy states "participants, staff and contractors should not travel through areas of extreme or catastrophic danger warnings to attend race meetings".