Strangers display generosity after gopher theft

A wheelchair-bound Rockingham man who was left "trapped" in his house after his gopher was stolen last week has been overwhelmed by the generosity of strangers.

Bill Pockran, who requires dialysis three times a week, has had a rough year dealing with the death of his mother, wife and dog, the theft of his only mode of transport and almost $10,000 hacked from his bank accounts.

The news that several strangers wanted to donate him a replacement gopher or fundraise money to help, far outweighed his expectations.

"The response has been wonderful - I'm just so appreciative of what people and police have done and how they've wanted to help," Mr Pockran said.

"It's great to see there are caring people in the world - it's a wonderful feeling and I feel much better than I did last week.

"I felt deserted on an island - my independence was gone.

"How can you do this to someone who is defenceless?"

Police South Metropolitan Community Engagement Unit Sergeant Paul Trimble said the theft was a "gutless" act and hoped people with information could come forward about the whereabouts of the 73-year-old man's canopied scooter.

The ex-NSW policeman lost his leg in 1969 while on duty riding a police motorcycle which malfunctioned. Mr Pockran said doctors believed years of taking chronic pain medication had caused his kidneys to deteriorate.

He said he was in talks with his bank about how to get the money back.

Sgt Trimble urged anyone with information to contact 131 444.

"It's unbelievable how people can target the elderly," he said. "Most people in the community would agree this is a gutless act."