Defending Victorian Open winner David Diaz has continued his strong start to the year after an opening round four-under par 68 at the South Australian PGA Championship.

Diaz was joined by Luke Hickmott at the top of the leaderboard in what proved to be a tough day.

The Von Nida Tour event was played in trying conditions on the Tanunda Pines layout with strong winds and colder than expected weather.

Former NSW PGA champion Chris Downes was the first to card a 69, tallying six birdies and an eagle en route to his opening round three-under total.

Playing in the tougher morning conditions, Diaz maintained the form that saw him take away the state title earlier this year, his six birdie performance equalling the best of the day.

A more consistent performance from Hickmott puts him in contention going into day two with the rookie Victorian looking to claim his maiden tour victory.

Former NSW PGA Champion Chris Downes was the first to card a 69, tallying six birdies and an eagle en route to his total.

He was joined by this year's National Australia Bank Victorian PGA winner Steven Jeffress, Eddie Barr, Neven Basic, Craig Carmichael along with the leading South Australian David Lutterus.

Of the six amateurs invited into the field, Peter Cooke fired a morning round of 70 to open his campaign.

Players are hoping to experience warmer conditions on Wednesday to take a stranglehold of the 6152 metre layout.

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