Smyth, a Wollongong junior who now calls Sydney's St Michael's home, clawed his way closer to back-to-back titles after an even-par 69 during yesterday's fourth round at Jamberoo.

He extended his buffer over St George's Basin 15-year-old Woodall to two shots, who carded a one-over 70.

The pair are well clear of New Caledonia's Ugo Ottogalli in third, 11 shots off the lead.

Even if Woodall doesn't manage to snare overall honours, he can still take solace from the fact he has a mortgage on the under 16s crown, 12 strokes clear of early tournament leader Ben Clapham.

The Links Shell Cove's Jamie Krzyszczak has an even stronger grip on the under 14s title, a whopping 34 shots clear of his closest competitor.

Natika Dunn strengthened her claims to win the girls' section, extending her margin to 18 shots over Stefanie Hall.

Meanwhile, 23-year-old Frances Bondad was the star on the opening day of the Moss Vale Pro-Am after carding a brilliant five-under 68 in yesterday's opening round.

The Sydney-based American native was joined by New Zealander Cathryn Bristow on the top of the leaderboard.

They're a shot ahead of a trio of golfers poised to pounce including Nikki Campbell, Jessica Speechley and Rebecca Codd. The tournament finishes today.