Although the overall quest winner, Ulverstone's Laura Wood, 18, may have been juggling accolades, it is clear that she was sure-footed during her trials under the watchful eye of the  judging panel.

She was last month one of five Tasmanian students selected for the National Schools Constitutional Convention in  Canberra and represented St Brendan-Shaw College at last year's Tasmanian Youth Parliament.

The North-West student also attained the quest's public speaking award.

Pages of achievements and involvement with various clubs were  found not just with Ms Wood  but all four of the finalists, according to judge Marlena Knight.

``I does sound like a cliche when we say it was a hard decision, but this was one of the hardest we've had to make,'' Mrs Knight said.

``They are all exceptional young people.''

The ceremony also saw state finalists Madalan Page, 18, of Don College, and Charles Headlam, 18, and Sophie Jones, 17, of Scotch Oakburn College, recognised for their efforts.

Lions Tasmania district governor George Bugeja said it was encouraging to see how each student had developed throughout their journeys with the state challenge.

For more information about the Lions Youth of the Year Quest:  www. lionsclubs.org.au/yoty.