Emergency services were called to Slate Quarry Road about 8am after reports a truck had overturned. The horse transport truck rolled onto its roof at a tight bend in Meredith, 46 kilometres northwest of Geelong, coming to rest down an embankment near the Moorabool River.
Crews attempted to treat the driver at the scene but he could not be revived. The man was the sole occupant of the cab. Beyond the driver, two horses being transported in the vehicle also perished in the crash.
Slate Quarry Road is expected to be closed for some time while the investigation takes place. The condition of the road at the crash site, including the tight bend where the rollover occurred, will form part of the investigation into what caused the truck to leave the roadway.
Work Safe have been notified of the incident. Anyone who witnessed the incident, with footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or anonymously at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
The tragedy adds to Victoria's road toll for the year. With the investigation still in its early stages, authorities have not yet released details about the specific circumstances that led to the truck leaving the road at the bend.