Miss Hutt Valley 2009 winner returns to organise 2010 event

NEW FACES: Miss Hutt Valley 2009 Mary Cooper, front, has teamed with Chantelle Avery to organise this year's event.

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Mary Cooper, Miss Hutt Valley 2009, is returning to the catwalk  this time as an organiser.

Last year, the organiser hoped the contest would become a regular event. Miss Cooper is working to make that a reality, as one of three organisers running it this year.

She says winning Miss Hutt Valley and participating in the Miss Universe New Zealand pageant was a thrill and an experience that taught her a lot. Now, she wants to give other girls the same chance.

While participating in Miss Universe New Zealand, she became aware that in other parts of the country such regional contests are long established. She will work to give it some longevity here too.

Miss Cooper and co-organiser Chantelle Avery will make some changes, with more coaching in presentation, public speaking, dealing with the media and dress.

They are also planning a fashion parade.

Last year, 15 young women entered but this time the number will be 20.

Miss Cooper says it is an opportunity for girls to better themselves and they do not want to restrict numbers.

Ms Avery comes from a background in business and finance management, and has an interest in photo shoot design.

That involves finding the best models for photo shoots and managing the process, which led to her developing an interest in event management.

Some young women have already signed up but they are still looking for more, says Ms Avery.

"If they are smart intelligent girls from the Hutt Valley we want to hear from them.

"They will make new friends and have a good time."

* Miss Hutt Valley will take place on Wednesday November 24, at Petone Working Men's Club. Phone Chantelle 021 0246 3982.

- Hutt News