Entering into the tournament, Jaimee had previous experience fighting at State level in the State Championships in years gone by, and finished third in the nationals last year, but it was her first international tournament.

Having been in the sport for some five years, the 17-year-old martial arts star has been taking everything in her stride as she streaks towards the pinnacle of a fast-moving, vastly improving career.

As to why she seems so successful in her chosen sport, Jaimee offers little explanation.

"I have no idea, it just clicks I guess," she said.

As part of the Lions Youth Exchange, Jaimee was selected by the Whyalla Mount Laura Lions as an ideal candidate, funding her trip and her accommodation across to the shaky isles.

Housed by Lions members in New Zealand, she spent two weeks in Taupo, her host families helping her tour some great attractions such as the Craters in The Moon, Huka Falls and Rotorua.

"It was just beautiful," she said.

Upon her return to Australia, Jaimee was upgraded to a black belt, a major step up in competition levels.

She said the step up would be made as long as she maintained her training.

"It's a different competition all together."

Jaimee was selected as Lions Youth of the Year two years ago both locally and in the region, and her affiliation with the Lions looks to be reaping huge rewards.

Now in year 12 at high school, Jaimee balances her intense training schedule with school and employment.

"It all just fits somehow," she said.

Her future seems to be settled in Whyalla, no long-term plans just yet to leave for advanced training schedules.

"I'm not sure, I'll just keep doing karate, as long as I'm here I'll be training here," she said.

She thanked local instructor, sensei Arne Risborg, the Whyalla Mount Laura Lions Club and her other supporting crew in assisting her achieve the success she has.

Whyalla Mount Laura Lions Club youth chairman Brian Marshall said Jaimee's involvement with the Lions can continue in the future indirectly through the Whyalla Gift Foundation.

Australasian champion ... Whyalla's Jaimee Arnold-Jacobs toured to New Zealand for the Australasian Karate Championships in Taupo, winning gold in the brown belt mixed open class, with assistance from Whyalla Mount Laura Lions Club: (from left) president David Clapp, Jaimee, and youth chairman Brian Marshall.