Detectives from the Missing Persons Squad are seeking public assistance as part of their investigation into the 2023 disappearance of Kinglake man Rodney McKenzie.
The then 71-year-old was last seen by an associate about 1.30pm on Sunday, 5 March 2023 when he drove him to the local shops.
After returning home, Rodney did not access his bank accounts or his phone or make any further contact with his family again.
He was reported missing by his daughter, Jackie, on Thursday, 23 March 2023 when she became concerned she had not heard from him for longer than usual.
Jackie went to check on her father at his Bald Spur Road home but found the premises unlocked, and Rodney's phone, wallet and car still at the address.
Rodney lived a secluded life on his 20-acre property and was not known to leave his home particularly often.
Police searched the property over a three day period in March with assistance from the Air Wing, Search and Rescue, Special Solo Unit, State Emergency Services and the Country Fire Authority.
No trace of Rodney was found.
His disappearance, initially investigated by local police and then Banyule Crime Investigation Unit, is considered out of character.
Police have spoken with a number of Rodney's friends and associates since he was reported missing in the hope someone had heard from him or had information about his current whereabouts.
Over the past twelve months enquiries made by detectives from the Missing Persons Squad have increasingly lead them to believe that Rodney has met with foul play.
As such, his disappearance is now being treated as suspicious.
Police are releasing a number of images of Rodney, as well as CCTV of one of the last times he was seen in public, in the hope that someone recognises him and may be able to provide information on his likely final movements.
Anyone with any other information regarding his disappearance is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
Quotes attributable to Detective Acting Inspector Steve Trewavas, Missing Persons Squad:
"Rodney's disappearance is of concern to investigators, as well as his friends and family.
"He was known to police as he'd had significant involvement with drugs over the course of his life.
"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.
"His phone and bank accounts have not been touched since 5 March, 2023. We are confident there are people out there who know what has happened to him.
"We are hopeful that today's appeal leads to those people coming forward. Any information provided to detectives will be followed up thoroughly in the hope we can provide some answers for Rodney's family.
"I encourage anyone with any information at all to speak to police or information can be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers."
