Belfast Users Group spokeswoman Viva-Lyn Lenehan said Rundells Trail Rides owner Sandra Wilson had been told the business was no longer allowed to use the Hoon Hill Track.

"In the past Hoon Hill allowed her secure beach access during the winter/autumn/ spring high tidal events," Ms Lenehan said.

"Without the security of this beach access on her trail rides, her business will be forced to close.

"This will have a devastating impact on the local community."

Member for South West Coast Roma Britnell described the directive to Rundells by the state government as "heavy handed".

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"Overnight she was told she couldn't have access to the trails she has had access to for 22 years," Ms Britnell said.

"I think it's typical of a government which doesn't understand the challenges they put on businesses.

"To have such a heavy-handed approach for a tourist operator makes no sense but it's the sort of treatment I see from the government frequently."

Ms Lenehan encouraged members of the public to write a letter to a government representative to tell them why Rundells should be allowed to use the track.

In an open letter to Matthew Phelan at Aboriginal Victoria, Ms Lenehan said access to the track was crucial for Rundells, particularly during the winter months when high tides made the other beach access tracks inaccessible.

"Rundells relies heavily on the trail rides component of its business for financial viability," she said.

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