An Australian Olympian and horse trainer has been charged after the discovery of more than 20 dead horses at a property at Bulla, north-west of Melbourne.

Twenty-two horses were found dead and another 22 appeared to be suffering from malnutrition at a Batey Court property, police said.

Neighbours made the grim discovery on Sunday after investigating the source of a foul smell and called police.

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The rotting remains of at least 10 dead horses could still be seen in a paddock on Monday morning.

Bruce Akers, 63, was charged with 92 counts of animal cruelty and criminal damage offences.

It was understood that Akers represented Australia in wrestling at the 1972 and 1976 Olympic Games, and was a registered horse trainer last racing horses in 2011, according to Fairfax Media.

Akers appeared by video-link at Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court later on Monday.

The court was told neighbours alerted authorities after a foul smell wafted through the area and police found numerous piles of decaying horses at the property.

RSPCA Victoria acting chief executive Jon McGregor said the situation was “appalling”.

“It is a tragedy that animals would be left to suffer in this way,” he said.

“All animal owners have a responsibility to ensure regular supervision and supply of water, feed and shelter.

“It is unacceptable for animals to be allowed to starve to death or die of thirst under any circumstance.”

Mr McGregor said the RSPCA first heard that horses were malnourished at the property on March 22.

“We regret that this report didn’t accurately describe the situation that was uncovered yesterday, and that observations from outside the property did not reveal the true extent of what lay within,” he said.

“The owner of this property is known to the RSPCA and the property is one which is not be attended without police support for safety reasons.”

– with AAP/ABC