Police have charged a 62-year-old man with murder over the 1984 death of Bernard "Bernie" Williams in Bullengarook, west of Melbourne.
Mr Williams, 25, was found dead on a bush track on the afternoon of March 3, 1984.
He had allegedly been tied up and shot a number of times in what police described as "an execution-style" murder.
Peter Raymond Brown appeared briefly in the Melbourne Bail and Remand Court via video link on Monday afternoon, charged with one count of murder.
He was remanded in custody, and the matter will return to court for mention on June 14.
In 2017, Victoria Police announced a $1 million reward for information about Mr Williams' death.
Detectives believe several people were likely to have been involved in the alleged murder of the former Melton Football Club player.
Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Scarlett from the Homicide Squad said Mr Williams left behind a young daughter, and was in the prime of his life.
"He was not known to police for any criminal matters, however we're aware he had a number of personal relationship disputes and that remains an active avenue of enquiry for us."
Police said the reward for information on the case remained active and they believed there may be people who were living in the Melton area in 1984 who know what happened.
"It's likely more than one person was involved, or at least present, when Bernie was killed," Senior Sergeant Scarlett said.
Anyone with information is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
