Local reports say semi-retired horse trainer Johnny Oswin was attacked by a man who threatend him with a metal bar at his home in Mt Eliza, south of Melbourne. Oswin was able to fight him off suffering only minor cuts and bruises to his head and arms.

Oswin says, "if he comes back, I'll do him up. I'll be ready for him next time. I didn't expect anybody to come in wanting to do me up, did I? I'll fix him up if he comes in, I'll use my fists on him next time, I'm pretty handy."

The attacker reportedly struck Oswin several times on the head and right arm before Oswin hit back with his shoe.

Detective Sergeant Rob Clark of Mornington police, urged home invasion victims not to fight back if confronted, saying "obviously it's a vicious attack on an elderly man in his own home. We don't recommend people to confront assailants."

Investigatos say the attacker entered the house through an unlocked back door.