Barunga’s Next Top Model: Unearthed
Submit Your Application
Barunga Festival 2025 is proud to present the launch of Barunga’s Next Top Model: Unearthed, a new initiative led by internationally acclaimed Tiwi model and mentor Cassie Black (Puruntatameri).
This exciting community-first fashion program will give 10 local Aboriginal participants the opportunity to experience professional modelling through runway training, fashion shoots, and styling – right here on Bagala Country.
Runway-ready or first-timers – we want to hear from you.
What you will be a part of?
- Walk in a Saturday runway show featuring 2 x outfits made with textiles from participating art centres.
- Be professionally photographed by Dave Blake and Grace Fox in a styled editorial photoshoot.
- Receive hair and makeup support to help highlight your natural beauty.
- Represent culture, confidence and community as a proud face of Barunga Festival.
- Selected participants will also receive a model book to support future opportunities.
“We’re looking for aspiring models who want to be part of something bigger, sharing culture through fashion, telling stories through style.“
Entry Form Criteria
Before you fill out the online form please ensure that you meet the submission criteria.
Entry Requirements
You must be available on at the Barunga Festival on the Friday, Saturday, Saturday when required.
Please ensure your application includes:
Candid Headshot (JPEG/PNG format)
- No filters or heavy editing
- Natural lighting preferred
Full Body Photograph (JPEG/PNG format)
- Plain background preferred
- Standing, front-facing shot
Personal Details
- Full Name
- Age
- Height (in cm or ft/in)
- Dress Size (for fitting purposes)
- Tell us about yourself
In 100 words or less, tell us:
“Why would you like to be Barunga’s Next Top Model?”
Link to your social media profile, Facebook or Instagram handle (set to public or visible to organisers)
Submission Deadline: Midnight, Sunday 25th May 2025
Successful Applicants Notified: Monday 26th May 2025
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for Barunga’s Next Top Model: Unearthed?
Anyone from the local community aged 14 and over is welcome to apply. If you’re under 18, you’ll need parent or guardian permission.
2. Do I need modelling experience?
No! This opportunity is for first-time and aspiring models. You don’t need experience, just confidence, curiosity, and a willingness to learn.
3. Is there a cost to participate?
No. Participation is free for the 10 selected models. You’ll be provided with professional photos, and runway experience.
4. Do I need to bring my own clothes?
We’ll provide outfits for the fashion show and photoshoot, but you can bring plain clothes (like a black top and jeans) for headshots or backups if needed.
5. What kind of photos should I upload with my application?
Submit one candid headshot and one full-body photo. These don’t need to be professional – just clear, natural, and unfiltered. Use good lighting and a plain background if possible.
6. When will I find out if I’ve been selected?
Successful applicants will be contacted on Monday, 26 May 2025.
7. What dates do I need to be available?
You must be available from Friday 6 June to Sunday 8 June 2025, and also be able to attend a briefing on Thursday 5 June.
8. What will I get out of this?
You’ll get a model portfolio (model book), professional runway experience, mentorship by Cassie Black, and the chance to be featured in national editorial submissions. It’s also a celebration of culture and creativity.
9. Can I bring a family member with me?
Yes, support from family is welcome, especially for younger participants. Some activities are open to the public, like the fashion show.
10. Who is organising the program?
The program is led by Bagala Aboriginal Corporation and model mentor Cassie Black, with support from Barunga Festival coordinators and professional creatives.
