Bendigo Highway Patrol Acting Sergeant Peter Dyer said the man's ute collided with a tree on the Wimmera Highway at Wilsons Hill about 2.30am after the white Ford veered from the road. 

"The fatality was not discovered until 4.20am when a truck driver drove past the crash and called triple zero," he said. 

"The truck driver did not stop at the crash, which is a bit disappointing.

"The driver really should have stopped.

"People who arrive first to the scene can often provide vital information for when emergency services arrive."

Acting Sergeant Dyer said police were yet to speak to the truck driver.

"He may have a reason for not stopping," he said. 

"Perhaps it was not safe to stop."

Police believe the deceased driver was on his way home from his Bendigo workplace. 

Police said they could not reveal the name of the 61-year-old. 

Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Paul Gardiner said country people were at a higher risk of being involved in a fatal collision on country roads. 

"The majority of drivers involved in collisions on country roads are country drivers," he said. 

"The top causes of collisions are speed, alcohol, drugs, distraction and complacency.  

"People think it will not happen to them but it does."

Senior Sergeant Gardiner urged road users to take care on the roads. 

"We want everyone to enjoy Christmas and to not have to spend it grieving," he said.  

Anyone who might have information regarding the collision is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or to visit www.crimestoppers.com.au