A SMALL farming community has been shocked and saddened by the deaths of an elderly couple in a tragic find northwest of Melbourne.
The bodies are understood to have been found by the couple’s grandson just after 10am at a rural farming property on Smiths Road in Parwan, which is near Bacchus Marsh.
A major police operation was immediately set up as officers investigated the suspected murder-suicide.
The husband and wife, believed to be aged in their 90s, are yet to be formally identified and the cause of the deaths is still yet to be determined.
Police said they were not looking for anyone else in connection to the incident at this stage.
Ballarat Police Acting Superintendent Trevor Cornwill said although he was unable to release many details, it appeared the couple was a husband and wife.
“It’s very sad an elderly couple have lost their lives in tragic circumstances,” he told The Age.
The couple moved to the property after marrying in the early 1950s and had strong family ties to the area, according to The Herald Sun.
They had previously spoken about the troubles experienced by farmers in the area, where many struggled in the drought.
One resident told 9 News she was warmly welcomed by the couple when she moved to the area seven years ago.
“They had some history with the area … they made me feel very welcome,” she said.
“My heart feels sorrow. They were elderly, in the golden years (of their lives). I’m very surprised.”
Others said they were not so surprised, with one local saying: “It’s awful and really sad and I feel sad for the family, but I’m not surprised. There’s been a few in town.”
Jordan Rogers, a worker in the area, said the couple were “well liked”.
“It’s really sad news, it’s a really close-knit community,” he told 9 News.
Moorabool Shire Mayor Paul Tatchell said the incident was “a real tragedy” for a close-knit rural community.
“They were well known in our community and it will affect us deeply,” he told the Herald Sun.
Photos from the scene show several police vehicles and ambulances at the property which is accessed by a dirt road and has multiple outhouses.
If you or someone you know is in need of crisis or suicide prevention support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 22 4636.
— With AAP
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