Jean Marie Tupou (21) has entered the 2009 Miss Heilala Pageant as Miss Tonga Visitors Bureau and so far is the only local entry.

Jean was the first contestant to be registered on June 15. Jean, from Kolovai is an Information Officer for the Tonga Visitors Bureau in Nuku'alofa and is excited to be representing the TVB.

Registration for the 2009 Miss Heilala Pageant will be closed on July 17, before the pageant starts on July 20 with a Pageant Orientation.

On July 27 is the Miss Heilala Pre Pageant Interview, the first judging event followed by the second judging event, the Miss Tau'olunga on Tuesday, July 28.

A Miss Heilala Dress Rehearsal will follow on July 29.

The Finale night will be held on Thursday, July 30 featuring the final judging events of the Miss Heilala Sarong, Talent and the Contemporary Island Creation before the new Miss Heilala 2009-10 is crowned.

A Heilala Festival Island Ball will follow on July 31 at the Heilala Village before the festival will conclude on August 1 with a Float Parade from Teufaiva Stadium to Tu'imatamoana.

The reigning Miss Fiona Makisi will be taking part in the pageant.