December 23 2009

Perth boy Josiah was born without arms, yet the determined nine-year-old didn't let that stop him from realising his dream of one day riding a bike.

That dream came true just before Christmas with the help of a group of university engineering students and staff from Laing O'Rourke's Western Australian office.

The Josiah's Bicycle Challenge was part of the University of Western Australia's Dreamfit student program, where students fulfil the dreams of people with disabilities through innovative engineering solutions.

Laing O'Rourke supported the project with a $10,000 EPIC Community Grant and the support of two mentors - Western Australian Regional Manager Infrastructure, Aidan Mullan and Project Leader, Steve Brooks.

Josiah selected the bicycle constructed by Team 'Laing O'Bike', mentored by Aidan Mullan at an event on 3 December to mark International Day of People with a Disability.

"The Josiah Bicycle Challenge was an opportunity like no other to become involved with a project that was so much more than engineering challenge," Aidan said. "This unique project made a huge difference to one little Perth boy, but also touched the hearts and minds of so many during the four months of the challenge."

The six teams each designed a bicycle - the winning bike is now in the proud possession of Josiah, while the remaining five were sent to Ride-Aid Cambodia which provides bikes for children with disabilities.

Photo: Josiah sitting in his bike surrounded by the winning design team and Dreamfit CEO Darren Lomman (far right)