A BALLARAT cyclist who died near Geelong over the weekend was popular with his colleagues and had an "engaging personality".David Sidebottom, 53, of Lake Wendouree died when he was struck by a car in Drysdale about 9.20am on Sunday.Mr Sidebottom had been an employee at McCain Foods for almost 30 years. McCain Foods managing director Australia/New Zealand Steve Yung said Mr Sidebottom was a "valued and well-liked employee" at the company.Mr Yung offered his condolences to the Sidebottom family."He made a substantial contribution to McCain Foods over his employment of 29 years and made many friends because of his engaging personality," Mr Yung said in a statement. "David was a genuinely nice guy and he will be sadly missed."Police reported Mr Sidebottom died at the scene of the collision. He was struck by a 27-year-old woman from Point Lonsdale who was driving a Honda CRV at the time of the accident. Police were told Mr Sidebottom and the car were travelling in the same direction along Murradoc Road.Geelong Sergeant Adam Forehan said Mr Sidebottom's family had been notified and police were still calling for witnesses to the incident.Ballarat Sebastopol Cycling Club board member Stuart Brien said the accident was a tragic reminder of the importance of sharing the road.