The 62-year-old man, who lives alone on Selby Road, walked to the Flying Horse Bar and Brewery about 4.30pm on Saturday.

Senior Constable Andrew Kirkpatrick, of the Warrnambool police crime investigation unit, said the man had dinner at the establishment and stayed until it closed.

"He stayed until it closed and then he walked home," Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said.

"When he got home he's immediately noticed something wasn't right."

The man was horrified to find that $100,000 which he kept in two unique Holden tins had been taken along with two World War II Air Force medals that belonged to his uncle.

Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said the money and medals had been given to him as part of an inheritance.

"It's hit him pretty hard," Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said.

He said the home had been checked for fingerprints, but it appeared the offender had worn gloves.

"They knew what they were doing and they came prepared," Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said.

He urged anyone who saw anyone acting suspicious in the area to come forward.

Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said initial inquiries had not resulted in any leads, despite a number of neighbours stating they had been out on the street that night due to the sound of fireworks in the area.

"A lot of the neighbours were coming out to see what was going on but they haven't seen anything," Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said.

Entry to the property, which backs on to Our Lady Help of Christians Primary School, was gained through a back sliding door, which was forced open.

Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said the incident had a substantial impact on a vulnerable member of society.

"I request any member of the public to look out for the stolen property, specifically the World War II medals and if the offender is known to anyone I would ask them to contact myself at the Warrnambool CIU on 5560 1151 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000," he said.

Senior Constable Kirkpatrick urged people to utilise banks and trust funds for large amounts of cash.

In another incident, a silver Holden Commodore with the number plate ZKD 144 was stolen at a Merri Street property.

Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said an 82-year-old male returned home to discover one of three vehicles at the property was stolen.

The distinctive vehicle, which has Coles Coaches on both sides, is valued at $10,000.

"Any person with information or CCTV is asked to come forward," Senior Constable Kirkpatrick said.

Anyone who spots the vehicle is also asked to contact the Warrnambool CIU or Crime Stoppers.

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