The 16-year-old, in Bomaderry, allegedly approached the victim and an altercation occurred.

The teenager struck the victim in the head three or four times with a wooden picket and kicked the 50-year-old in the ribs whilst he was on the ground before fleeing.

Police attended the location and set up a crime scene.

The accused was arrested a short time later and was interviewed and charged with reckless wounding.

The victim was treated at hospital for lacerations to his head and possible broken ribs.