Fierce opposition to a camping free-for-all on licensed Crown land river frontages is being taken to the steps of the Victorian Parliament by one of the areas to be most affected by the changes.
Angry Mitta Valley farmers have organised a rally on Spring Street next Tuesday when both houses of parliament are sitting in what shapes as an 11th-hour bid to halt the regulations coming into effect on September 1 as planned or secure some significant changes.
Mitta North's Judy Cardwell said time was running out.
"We're hearing the new regulations need to be drawn up by July and this is kind of the last chance where we could have a bit of influence," she said.
"It's going to be a show of protest about what is happening.
"This is probably our last chance to effect the changes that need to occur."
As the regulations presently state the landowner would be responsible.
The Parks and Crown Land Legislation Amendment Bill passed through the Victorian Upper House earlier this year.
Kergunyah's Belinda Pearce's family has access to Kiewa River frontage and is hoping some last-minute changes can be made.
"There are legitimate reasons for wanting to lock up our land and keep people out," she said.
"A lot of urban people don't understand biosecurity issues or that their dog barking at a cow that has newly calved might actually attack them.
"We very much the like the VFF suggestion that the whole thing is paused for 12 months.
"It would allow important breathing space and instead of it coming in on September 1 this year, let's make it September 1 next year so that we can resolve some of the issues identified and come up with ways people can access water frontages and allow the government to deliver on their election promise.
"There must be plenty of places that aren't livestocked and Crown frontages people can access and enjoy.
"Let's look for a win-win."
Meanwhile, those wanting to travel by bus to attend the rally on Tuesday are urged to register attendance by emailing bill.tilley@parliament.vic.gov.au.
