The disappearance of 71-year old man in a rural Victorian town is being treated as suspicious after a year-long investigation.

Rodney McKenzie was last seen on Sunday, March 5, 2023 in Kinglake, 56km north-east of Melbourne, Victoria Police say.

He went to the local shops at 1.30pm then went home.

But he has not been seen, nor has used his bank accounts or phone since.

When his daughter, Jackie, went to his home, a 20-acre property on Bald Spur Road, she found it unlocked, and his phone, wallet and car were there.

Police found no trace of him after a three-day search of the property.

Detective Acting Inspector Steve Trewavas said Rodney’s disappearance left police “concerned” and called for the public’s help.

“He was known to police as he’d had significant involvement with drugs over the course of his life,” he said.

“This has provided detectives with a range of avenues of enquiry, and it’s information provided as part of those enquiries that has lead us to this conclusion.

“Initially consideration was given that he may have had a fall or a medical episode somewhere on his property as the terrain is so rugged, but a three day search utilising all resources available to police located no trace of him.

“Sadly, at this time we do believe Rodney has likely met with foul play.

“We are confident there are people out there who know what has happened to him.”