The 16-year-old, who spent his formative years in Lightning Ridge, has since moved to Denman before finally settling in Tamworth with his family.

Luke’s whole family has a long association with the sport of rodeo. He officially started competing at eight years of age.

His grandmother, Lyn Carney, says Luke regularly returns to Lightning Ridge to ride in the Black Opal Rodeo at Easter time.

Of his success his elated mother Lana Carney-Wicks said “I never doubted for one moment that he could do it.”

Her confidence was well founded as Luke led the way to the third round.

He sat second in the averages after successive rounds, which led to an elimination final of 20 riders. Luke snared a raging bull for his final performance, clocking up an 81-point ride to secure the world 16-years-and-under championship victory.

Luke is the first Australian to be victorious in this competition.

Described as quiet and unassuming, Luke has also enjoyed success a little closer to home. He won the 14 to 18 Junior Steer Ride at the Australian Bushmen’s Campdraft and Rodeo Association (ABCRA) National Finals at Tamworth in January this year

However, it was his performance at the National Student Rodeo Finals at Kingaroy in May that earned him a spot in the world finals.

He had time to digest his victory and the impact it will have upon his future as he and his mother and brother Thomas flew from Los Angeles to Sydney on Friday July 9 where the press were waiting to get the details of his world championship performance.

Heavily laden with all the spoils of a world championship victory, Luke retained his composure as he spoke of the doors that were opening for him.

Luke has already attracted the attention of top US bull riding scouts, college scholarships and a promotional campaign, which will see him as the youthful face of bull riding.

Luke has said he wants to pursue a career in the sport with the Professional Bullriders Association after he turns 18. In particular, he plans to work on his roping technique, which he hopes will help him achieve his ultimate goal of winning an all-around cowboy title.

Mrs Carney has described her grandson as a true Aussie Gem, as unique as the black opal town, Lightning Ridge that he called home for many years.”