Detective Sergeant Mark James, of Hamilton police crime investigation unit, said five stores had been the targets of commercial burglary with chainsaws, mowers, generators washers and welders stolen.

"There has been a series of commercial burglaries we believe involving the same crew," he said.

"Coleraine was just the tip of the iceberg, there have been four others."

Rural stores were broken into at Donald on May 2, Heywood May 5, Stawell May 16, Coleraine last Friday and then Swan Hill overnight on Sunday.

"These items being stolen are expensive and easily disposed of. We want to hear from anyone who has seen such items being advertised for sale on Facebook or other social mediums.

"Contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000."

Detective Sergeant James said goods worth in excess of $50,000 had been stolen.

"We are requesting that rural supply stores or stores with chainsaws, mowers and similar equipment, in those rural towns without 24-hour police stations, review their security," he said.

"Make sure your security cameras are working properly and that you have adequate security measures in place.

"These offenders are cutting locks and backing through doors early in the mornings.

"If you are out and about early in the morning, take notice of any unusual activity and if you see anything suspicious contact police."

Detective Sergeant James said the offending was prolific and had been committed over a large region.

"We don't expect these break-ins to stop until the offenders are identified and arrested," he said.

Anyone with information about the burglaries is requested to contact police or Crime Stoppers.

Read more:

Have you signed up to The Standard's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in the south-west.