From the UTS law lecture hall to the Hay sheep show ring, junior judge triumphs

A quick lesson in junior judging has paid off for Rosie Mahony, claiming the champion title at the Hay Merino Sheep Show at the weekend.

The 20-year-old came to the event, not from the wide expanses of the Hay Plains, but straight out of the lecture hall at the University of Technology Sydney, where she is studying a double degree in law and film.

While she hails from the city, Ms Mahony said she had been exposed to sheep through family at Walcha and school friend Olivia Huggins from Woodpark Poll Merino stud, Hay.

"It's been really fun - I've always loved sheep," she said.

Miss Mahony had done cattle junior judging before but this was her first time with sheep.

"Steve [Huggins, from Woodpark Poll] gave us a little lesson yesterday and it's obviously paid off," she said.

Winning the top spot at Hay means Miss Mahony is now bound for the state final at the Sydney Royal Show next year.

"I'm very excited - it should be great," she said.

In the 15 to 25-year-old age group, second place went to Angus Knox, Conargo, while Ashlee Trebilco was awarded third.

In the under 15-years junior judging, the winner was Sam Frost, Laggan, second went to Tash Lucas and third to Harvey Schilg, Walbundrie.