AMID rapturous applause from a highly supportive home crowd, James Lines, Burra, was declared the country's best young Angora goat judge.
SA achieved a one-two finish, with Shawna Denman, Unity College, Murray Bridge, claiming the runner-up ribbon.
The final was contested by two participants each from SA, NSW and Vic, with University of New England Rural Science student Caitlin Bowman, Armidale, NSW, finishing third.
James, a Year 10 student at Scotch College in Adelaide, was commended by judge Jude Eustice, Hahndorf, on his appearance and delivery.
"He was very professional in his delivery and he dressed appropriately," Ms Eustice said. "That set him up to feel confident and it showed.
"He knew what he liked about the animals and fleeces, and he was very concise and informed with his judging.
"He was outstanding, he used all the right words and terminology, which some of the others didn't.
"I wouldn't hesitate to have him judge at a local show."
James, 15, said he was thrilled to receive tremendous support from his former Burra Community School classmates, as well as key figures in the local industry.
"In the ring I'm looking at the carcase traits, looking for good conformation and with the mohair, it's all about quality more-so than weight," he said.
In the state final held before the nationals, Westminster's Stanley Freetham edged out runner-up Erin Cook, Xavier College, and Olivia Hand, Unity College.
Angora goat and mohair fleece young judges
Judges: Jacob Stevens, Charlie Angora stud, Warwick, Qld, Jude Eustice and Greg Peterson, Hahndorf
National final
1: James Lines, Scotch College, Burra
2: Shawna Denman, Unity College, Murray Bridge
3: Caitlin Bowman, Armidale, NSW
State final
1: Stanley Feetham, Westminster, Adelaide
2: Erin Cook, Xavier College, Gawler
3: Olivia Hand, Unity College, Murray Bridge