The Camperdown Angling Club-organised petition has attracted an estimated 4000 signatures according to club secretary Dave Ritchie. Mr Ritchie said the petition had been placed in businesses throughout the Corangamite Shire and in other areas around the south-west. 

“It’s had very good support, we are quiet pleased with the response,” he told The Standard. 

“There are signatures from anglers all over Victoria. We are in the process of collating it now but I would say there are at least 4000 signatures. 

“People in Camperdown and beyond want this road reopened, so hopefully the petition will get some action.” 

Among the signatories are the seven Corangamite Shire councillors, who are also keen to see the road reopened. 

Cr Ruth Gstrein said council had lobbied the state government on both the reopening of this road and the establishment of a management plan for the precinct.

“The reopening of the access road at Lake Bullen Merri is seen as an important issue. Council supports the creation of a management plan that would address a range of issues including land management, camping and road access,” she said. 

“Council included this project as part of its 2013-2014 priority projects list and continues to advocate to the state government regarding the use of this important site in the shire.”

Landowners blocked access to the road, which runs through private farmland, in 2011 after it was discovered the then Department of Sustainability and Environment ceased payments that cover public liability. 

Camperdown businesses have reported the closure is having a negative impact on their trade, with anglers avoiding the lake saying the road closure has limited the shore-based fishing options.

Mr Ritchie said the closure had also forced the cancellation of the Camperdown Fishing Classic, an annual event held each October that brought anglers from across Victoria.