The winner of the Illawarra’s Model of the Year, which also includes a contract with a leading European modeling agency, is open nationwide to males and females 16 years and over.

As well as the overall winner, there is a special category for Illawarra and South Coast entrants to win the regional prize of a $1500 holiday package and another $1000 holiday package for the highest fund raiser.

The model competition is fund raising for the Highlights on Mental Health campaign to raise awareness of mental health.

Entrants must raise funds for the campaign.

Aspiring photographers can also enter an associated contest for $3000 in cash prizes.

NSW Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier for the Illawarra and South Coast Gareth Ward recently launched the four-month mental health campaign at Pepe’s on the beach at the Northbeach Novotel.

The contest is supported by WIN TV and Fairfax Media.

Entrants will parade during Wollongong Central’s Spring Fashion Campaign in September and early October.

Finalists will be judged on a runway in the Wollongong Mall on Mental Health Day, Saturday, October 10.

Campaign director Robyn te Velde said the winner of the competition would win a trip to Europe, accommodation and expenses for a modeling contract in Europe provided by her son Paul James Hay, now the owner and creative director of a European agency, Core Artist Management EU.

International modelling representatives have accepted Mr. Hay’s invitation to be part of the judging panel looking for fresh new Australian faces during the heats and finals of the model competition.

“Unique opportunities for local aspiring models will be up for grabs,” Ms te Velde said.

“The winner will be treated to an expenses-paid, return-airfare trip to Europe, incorporating placement with a network of leading EU agencies, sponsored by Core Model Management, which will offer our top model winner the chance to work with the world’s leading brands and industry icons.” 

Hundreds of entries are expected from around Australia.Visit www.highlightsonmentalhealth.com.au for entry details.

Shoot the Model 2015, a photographic competition sponsored by Fairfax Media and Core Model Management, is also part of the campaign.

Professional, amateur and student photographers are invited to compete for $3000 in cash prizes.

They have been invited to display quirky creativity by collaborating with models and stylists. 

Visit www.high

lightsonmentalhealth.

com.au for more.

Winners will be announced at the Highlights Ball and Awards’ Night at the Northbeach Novotel on October 17.

For further information contact: Janine Cullen 0418425255.