P-plater killed and another critically injured after high-speed crash in Geelong

A P-plater who died after losing control of his car has been remembered by his heartbroken parents as a man with “a heart of gold”.

Richard Lander, 24, was killed when his Holden Commodore slammed into a power pole after it veered onto the wrong side of Ballarat Road in North Geelong just after 1am this morning.

His passenger, a 20-year-old Hamlyn Heights man, was rushed to the Alfred Hospital with critical head injuries.

Mr Lander's parents and close friends attended the scene of the crash this afternoon to pay tribute to their son and friend, who was due to get his truck licence next week.

"He was a great kid," the victim’s father, Dave Lander said.

“He’ll never be able to get his truck licence again. He had a heart of gold.”

His mother, Moira Lander, said they "loved him very dearly”.

“He’d always give me a kiss before he went to bed. We’ll just really miss him.”

Police believe speed was a “definite factor” in the car crash. 

Local residents say the stretch of road is notorious for speeding and drag racing.. 

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000