Sixteen-year-old Nathan Bartlett has joined the elite group of climbers from Port Macquarie's Centre of Gravity who've qualified to go to the Youth World Cup in China, in November.

The trials took place in Melbourne and Nathan had to surpass a very high pre-set standard. He began climbing a few years ago, and loved it straight away.

"It's awesome. I did have a fear of heights at first, but now it's really cool. I'm very happy to be on the national team. I put in a lot of hard work, and it's been worth it," he said.

As well as climbing three times a week, Nathan exercises at home in between, doing weights and stretching.

Coach, David Malikoff, described Nathan as an extraordinary climber.

"He climbs with grace, precision and power, and has an enormous capacity for the sheer hard work needed to be able to compete at elite level. And he remains a gentlemanly and humble young Wauchope man, a really worthy representative of our gym, area and sport."

Nathan recently competed in the Tasmanian State Titles and came 2nd in his age group and 5th in the Opens. His coach, David won the Masters division. Nathan's now gearing up for the competition calendar with 3 state titles over the next 6 weeks, then the Nationals in June.

His mum, Bree McAndrews will stay at home to look after his younger sisters, while her husband goes with their son to China.

"Nathan also volunteers at the climbing centre, works and saves money for competitions. We're absolutely amazed and proud that he's done so well."