The controversial scheme is set to be put in place during the busy months at the three-and-a-half star, 647-site Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park and Camping Ground.

But the plan, revealed by Great Ocean Road Coast Committee which controls the park, has angered long-term regulars who claim they will be disadvantaged by not being able to rely on definite bookings, which they had enjoyed in previous years.

Committee chief executive officer David Clarke was unrepentant, claiming the new process was fair.

"The ballot will provide a more equitable opportunity for both existing and new campers to stay in the park during the peak summer season," he said.

"Each year we get up to 10 times as many enquiries for camp sites over the busy summer season, compared to how many sites are available. We have already received calls from people who have been trying for years to get into Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park without success. They are excited about the ballot process."

He said applications from previous campers would automatically go into the ballot while prospective new campers were being invited to submit booking applications for the 2009/2010 summer ballot.

Mr Clarke said the scheme formed part of the first stage of a two-year major upgrade for the park.

Costing more than $750,000, work to be completed this year included building a new amenity block, replacing ageing cabins and improving the playground and other park assets.

Further work – including upgrading the power, sullage, gas, water and road infrastructure – was also planned to begin next year.

"The improvements will make the Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park a better place to camp and make it accessible to more families and visitors during the busy summer period,” Mr Clarke explained.

Stage one works will affect 28 existing camp sites in the park, including some sites along the beachfront area adjacent to Voss's Car Park. As a result, 28 campers will be required to relocate to alternative sites elsewhere within the park before next summer.

"We have contacted the campers concerned advising them of the need to relocate and inviting them to choose up to three preferred sites from among the 35 we have available as alternatives," Mr Clarke said.

"So far, most of these campers have already contacted us to nominate their preferred new sites. Every effort will be made to accommodate their preferences – not to mention their caravans and annexes – so that they can continue to enjoy their holidays in the park next summer.

"We appreciate that these changes affect campers who have been regulars with us for many years. However, it is important for the park upgrade to proceed and we have done everything we can to provide alternative sites, which will allow these camping experiences to continue next year."

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