PERPENDICULAR to Hayburn Avenue in Rockdale is a footbridge which crosses over Muddy Creek.
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It is frequently used by residents as a short cut to Rockdale Plaza Shopping Centre and a bus stop.
But the safety of the bridge has raised concerns after a near accident three weeks ago.
Serena Solbiati, 22, and her partner Richard Trainor, 29, took their two kids Dion and Lily out on their usual route to the shops.
They allowed Dion, 5, to run ahead and hang on to a handrail to look down at the creek.
But little did they know that the handrail was broken.
"We saw Dion with his feet on the railing which had actually broken off the bridge and dipped down close to the ground," Mr Trainor said.
"It was a close call; something really bad could have happened."
Ms Solbiati said she was lost for words.
"Dion's body was just hanging down from the bridge and he was just clinging to the handrails."
Mr Trainor said he notified Rockdale Council for fear another child's life may be in danger.
"It's really disappointing to see that it still hasn't been fixed," he told the Leader last week.
"We use this bridge three or four times a day and I know other families with little kids use it too.
"Whatever caused the handrails to break off, whether it be wear and tear or rusting, I just want to see it fixed.
"But obviously council doesn't see the urgency."
A council spokesman said the handrail had been checked.
"To ensure the safety of the handrail temporary works are under way," he said.
"Council is currently working to counter corrosion of the steel and ensure safety.
"A more detailed structural investigation is also being carried out to ensure the safety of the footbridge."
However, a completion date could not be provided.
Do you think fixing the handrail should be an immediate project for the council?
