Sam has regularly been driving 2.5 hours each way to prepare for and compete in the Highlights on Mental Health fundraising competition for the Light & Hope Mental Health Clubhouse in Wollongong.

“I’ve been driving up after work. I’ve been lucky enough to have my parents shout me a motel. So I stay the night and then drive back early the next morning. I am a carpenter and work for my dad (John McGlone at McGlone Homes). I have great parents and a good boss,” he said.

Sam was a rewarded for his commitment last week when he made it through to the final of Illawarra’s Top Model in early October.

“I saw it on Facebook..so I came down and tried out because it is all for a good cause. I am happy to raise money for people in need and I have made some great friends doing it. I have always wanted to do modelling. I do a little bit of acting every now and then and a little bit of modelling mainly in fashions on the field at the races.”

Sam said he wanted to take that to the next stage and the catwalk opportunities in Wollongong and tuition from experts in the area was an incredible opportunity.

“It is awesome. I have learnt so much. My confidence has grown heaps just from how they have taught me how to walk and hold my posture,” he said.

And just in case you are thinking of moving to the Braidwood area he could not resist putting in a plug for his father’s business which has been so supportive.

“If you need a home call McGlone,” he said.

The other finalists are Carmen Williams, Shania Montero, Wyatt Brennan, Kewana Whaddy Parsons, Jinima Whaddy Parsons, Olivia Strumfin, Natalie Barker, Chloe Ryan, Ashleigh Doherty, Bree Millar and Ellen McMullen.

The entrants will now compete in a European runway at the Novotel Wollongong Northbeach on October 8 before the gala dinner finale is held at the University Hall on October 22.

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