Detective Acting Sergeant Wayne Ryan, of the Warrnambool police crime investigation unit, said the separate incidents occurred at Mortlake and Port Campbell.

"On the 14^th of November it was reported to police that a young male was spoken to by a male in what we believe to be a dark black VE Commodore or similar," Detective Acting Sergeant Ryan said.

The young male, aged in his early teens, reported the incident, which occurred in Mortlake, to his mother.

"No offences have been identified but we are seeking information on the vehicle which has a distinctive scratch on the driver's side door," Detective Acting Sergeant Ryan said.

On Sunday, November 17, a younger male who was riding his bike was asked by a person driving a white Toyota van if he would like a ride.

"Once again he's gone home and told his parents," Detective Acting Sergeant Ryan said. "Neither of the children spoke to either driver and there is nothing to suggest either incident is linked in any way."

Detective Acting Sergeant Ryan urged anyone with information on these incidents or similar occurrences to contact the Warrnambool CIU. "We want to try and identify those vehicles and speak to the drivers," he said.

Detective Acting Sergeant Ryan said he was pleased the incidents had been reported.

"We're very happy that kids are going home and reporting strangers talking to them," he said.

"We'd like parents to reiterate to their children that if a stranger stops and asks them for a ride the answer is always no. We're happy children are taking on board that message."

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