A MAN has died at the infamous Rainbow Serpent dance festival in Victoria’s northwest overnight.

Police and paramedics were called to the scene to help the man, who died at 10:15pm.

The death has been declared not suspicious and police are preparing a report for the coroner.

It is the second death at the event in five years and comes amid growing concern about drug use at the event.

Last year substance use and violence marred the controversial music festival prompting police to publicly reveal they were ‘’fed up’’.

RELATED: Police question festival’s future due to drugs and violence

Up to 40 drivers leaving the Rainbow Serpent Festival at Lexton in country Victoria tested positive for drugs.

There were also reports of four sexual assaults, three thefts and a drink driver and two security staff were allegedly assaulted.

Festival director Tim Harvey issued a statement following yesterday’s death saying “Rainbow Serpent considers the safety of patrons a priority.”

“We want to forward our condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The thoughts of all our staff and volunteers are with them during this extremely difficult time.’’

Rainbow Serpent emergency response co-ordinator Matthew Wood welcomed the investigation over the incident.

“We work together with emergency services to ensure we can provide as safe an event environment as possible,” Mr Wood said.

“It’s now important we give them the opportunity to conduct their investigation before offering further comment.

“At this time we also appeal to media to avoid speculation and respect the family’s privacy while the authorities conclude their work.”

The cause of the man’s death has not been released by authorities.

In the lead up to the annual dance festival this year Victoria police issued a warning to party goers to not drug and drive following festivities.

Ballarat PSA Inspector Bruce Thomas said on Friday “with approximately 7000 vehicles on site, this area is of real concern to Victoria Police,” he said.

“The presence of drugs at music festivals and similar events and the potential for overdoses is always of concern both to police and the community in general.

“It should be remembered that there was a fatal drug overdose at the Rainbow Serpent Festival in 2012 and there have been a number of Ambulance Victoria recorded overdoses since.”

Previously the festival’s organisers have been among a growing cohort calling for legislative changes in Victoria to allow pill testing.

However, the State Government has so far ruled out any changes.

alex.white@news.com.au

@alexwhitelive