POLICE are appealing for assistance after a child was approached in Austinmer.
About 8.10am on Friday a nine-year-old boy was walking along Allen Street, when an older style white van with a metallic stripe down the side stopped beside him.
The driver, a man, spoke to the boy who became afraid and ran from the location.
The boy spoke to his father who contacted police.
Wollongong police would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that may assist.
The man was described as being aged between 50 and 60, with grey hair, a long grey beard and was wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses.
Police are urging anyone with information to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au/