The 17 year old Wollongong flautist wants to study music in London.

Ms Cheung, presently in Year 12 at Smith’s Hill High School, was talked in entering by a school friend whose mum handed her a flyer for Highlights on Mental Health and encouraged her to enter the competition.

She said it was great to do something different and for a good cause.

“I have never modeled before but it is really good and I have made heaps of friends,” she said.

“I have got to learn about the industry and I have had a lot of fun. I thought it was nice to learn something new and develop some new skills.”

Ms Cheung said she was speechless where her name was read out as a finalist.

“I am really excited,’’ she said.

“I never thought I would get this far. Next year I was hoping to go to London to study music. But I am also thinking I could got to Sydney Conservatorium to study music. I play flute and piano. I have got both my diplomas.”

Ms Cheung and other models who entered Illawarra’s Top Model are on target to raise more than $50,000 for the Light & Hope Mental Health Clubhouse in Wollongong.

They have already raised enough to allow it to open for a second day each week.

This Saturday from 12, in Crown Street Mall opposite David Jones, the Wollongong teenager will compete against 11 other finalists for the chance to win a trip to Europe being offered by Core Artist Management.

Core is run by former Wollongong resident Paul James Hay who recently gave Towradgi’s Kirra Jones a chance to model in Europe.

Ms Jones will make a guest appearance this Saturday along with Breaking Bad star RJ Mitte.

Both will also be at the ball at the Novotel Wollongong Northbeach where the Illawarra’s Top Model winner will be announced on October 17.

Bookings at www.novotelnorthbeach.com.au.