No mountain too high for Robbie

Robbie Flanagan won't let anything get in his way, recently achieving one of his biggest goals – conquering the climb up Mount Coolum on the Sunshine Coast.

August 29, 2014

Robbie Flanagan is a determined young man who will not let anything get in his way, especially not the disability he was born with.

On Wednesday 6th August he achieved one of his biggest goals – conquering the 3km return trip up the iconic Mount Coolum on the Sunshine Coast.

Robbie was born with Spina Bifida and has used a wheelchair his entire life. It is difficult for him to get around at the best of times but he will not let that stop him from pursuing his dreams.

For years, Robbie had heard stories of family, friends and even strangers climbing the mountain. Every time he heard one of these stories or drove past the mountain he became more and more determined to do it. He said “I’m going to climb it one day; I want to see if I can do it. If I make it I will feel so proud, so happy. It will be a great achievement”.

A 7NEWS Sunshine Coast report on Robbie’s Mount Coolum climb.

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To prepare for the journey he trained for months on other climbs such as Mount Tinbeerwah, which is really an achievement in itself.

Robbie reached the summit, 208 metres above sea level, with sheer determination and enthusiasm. He loves adventure and wanted to show the community that people with disabilities can achieve as much as anyone else if they put their mind to it.

He hopes to inspire his peers. “Many people I know would love to do things like this but think they can’t because they are in a chair and have a disability.

“People with disabilities can achieve great things if they put their mind to it and have the motivation, support and faith to achieve their greatest goals in life”, said Robbie.

We are so proud of you Robbie, well done!