Coastal beauties get ready for pageant

Two Geraldton-born women are among contestants in the first heats of Miss West Coast 2016 which begin at Rottnest Island this weekend.

Kaylee Strum and Ebony Walton will take to the catwalk at Hotel Rottnest tomorrow, wearing glamorous makeup, clothing and swimwear.

They are among 35 contestants to be judged during the heat this weekend.

Another 35 contestants will compete next weekend at The Breakwater.

The young women will also aim to impress the judges in a question and answer segment as they compete for a place among 24 State finalists.

The contestants have already been involved in the official Miss West Coast 2016 parade at Westfield Carousel two weeks ago and have participated in regular boxing sessions and Pilates classes with event sponsors.

Miss Strum, 23, whose family lives in Geraldton, said she was nervous and excited about the weekend’s competition.

The former Nagel Catholic College student recently completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology.

She said she planned to use her experience at the South Korean Miss Global Beauty Queen Pageant in 2015, in which she place among the top 20, and other modelling experience to prepare for the competition and her future.

“With the pageants you do have to have the confidence and vocal skills to talk on stage and be eloquent,” she said.

“I’m hoping after Sunday I’ll make it to State finals and be in the top 24. I’d like to get more involved in the companies we’ve worked with.

“Pink Tank Events (organiser of Miss West Coast) is involved in Toybox International, helping sick and disadvantaged children.

“With my degree I’ve always had that passion to help others and it’s a chance to help the next generation have the same opportunities I’ve had.”

Fellow Geraldton-born model Ebony Walton is signed with modelling agency Vivien’s and has appeared in several publications, including on the front cover of Solitaire magazine.

Contestants in the heats will progress to the State final in early April at Matisse Beach Club.

Miss West Coast is the official preliminary to the Miss Universe Australia competition.