A 69-year-old Ballina man has pleaded not guilty to a charge of intentionally sexually touching a child aged between 10 and 16.

Madan Mohan Singh appeared before Magistrate Kathy Crittenden in Ballina Local Court on March 19.

Police allege a 12-year-old boy was approached near the North Creek canal walking path at Ferngrove Park about 7pm on February 11 and touched inappropriately before running away.

The incident was later reported to police, who commenced an investigation with assistance from the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse Squad.

Singh was arrested on February 24 and charged.

Court records show he entered a plea of not guilty when the matter was called on March 19.

His bail was continued and varied.

Conditions require Singh to report to Ballina Police Station once daily between 7am and 8pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

He must surrender his passport, must not apply for another, and must not enter any international airport or departure point.

Singh is also required to live at an approved address and may only leave that residence in the company of an approved person.

He is prohibited from entering Ferngrove Park and must not be in the company of anyone under 18 unless in the direct company of an approved person, with limited exceptions.

Court-imposed conditions also prohibit him from attending a specified local school.

The court noted Singh is excused from appearing if legally represented.

A related application for an apprehended personal violence order was also before the court.

The interim order prohibits Singh from assaulting, threatening, stalking, harassing or intimidating the protected person, and from approaching or contacting them except through a lawyer.

The matter was adjourned for mention on April 30.

Police continue to appeal for information from anyone who was near the North Creek canal path on the evening of February 11.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.