Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
THE mother of a Bendigo teenager who had his two motorbikes stolen says the kindness of strangers has been heartening.
Sally Smith's 15-year-old son Harry discovered his beloved KTM 85 and CR 125 were missing about 12.30pm on Monday.
The Bendigo Advertiser reported on Tuesday afternoon the bikes, worth about $9000, had been tied-down on a trailer in their Golden Square backyard which is fitted with security lights and a high fence.
Harry has already attracted attention in motocross circles but fears, without the bikes and unable to afford the cost of replacing them, his involvement in the sport might have come to an untimely end.
"You can't imagine the response we've had after the story in the Bendigo Advertiser," Ms Smith said.
You can't imagine the response we've had ...
- Sally Smith
"It's been brilliant. I was actually just talking to a friend saying how overwhelmed we are. Everybody is coming forward and offering their bikes, it's just amazing the support we're getting."
Ms Smith said she had been reading the comments on the Bendigo Advertiser website and Facebook page, including a post from Martin 'Paddy' Dolan.
"To compete at any level, at any age, in any form of competition, takes raw courage," he wrote.
"From what I read above Harry Smith you have that courage ... all I can say to you Harry is they can rob you of your bikes, but nothing or nobody, can rob you of your spirit to compete ... "
Ms Smith thanked Paddy for his message of support.
Police are appealing to the public for information about the theft. Anyone with information should phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Bendigo Police on 5448 1300.