A return to racing at Flemington has sparked an increase in the number of jockeys warned over breaches of the whip rule.

Senior steward Robert Cram said the long Flemington straight on Saturday was a factor in riders using the whip more than allowed.

A new rule brought in at the start of December limits the number of times a jockey can use the whip before the 100m-mark.

Over the final 100 metres whip use is unrestricted.

Ten jockeys were given warnings at Flemington on Saturday, up from the average of four a meeting since the rule came into force.

Harry Coffey was the worst offender aboard Belorum who finished seventh in the AVHPA-Vic Trophy (1600m), with the apprentice going over by four strikes.

Other riders given warnings were Steven Baster, Jackie Beriman, Dylan Dunn, Katelyn Mallyon, Ben Melham, Chris Symons, Jarrod Todd, James Winks and Mark Zahra.

"It was the first day back at Flemington and with the long straight a few of the riders used it more than permitted," Cram said.

To allow riders time to become accustomed to the rule Victorian stewards are giving them two warnings and two reprimands before the penalties increase to fines.