It was the first time she had walked along the beachfront since February, when a serious accident resulted in a permanent disability to her left arm.

"I was hit from behind with full force by a skateboarder who had run out of control due to high speed,'' she said.

"Since that day, I have not been on my usual daily walk on The Esplanade due to fear of getting hurt again.''

Ms Droulias fell to her side when she was struck and smashed her arm against the concrete.

"My elbow had to be reconstructed,'' she said. "I had a checkup last week. My arm will never stretch out 100 per cent.''

A Sutherland Shire Council spokesman said skateboard-free areas were clearly marked and staff policed the areas.

"Council officers patrol areas such as The Esplanade as extensively as possible within their resources,'' he said.

"Earlier this year, council extended patrol times along [Cronulla's] Esplanade to include early mornings and has established a bicycle unit, which has been undertaking public education and safety patrols in Cronulla's parks, reserves and other public places.''

But the council's actions were not enough for Ms Droulias.

"It's a serious problem,'' she said.

"I think the authorities are very slack.''

Have you had any close calls on The Esplanade?