Bright local, Jeannette McGill, is no stranger to big mountains or big dreams.

After previous letdowns and disappointments, she summited Everest on 24 May this year - a remarkable milestone in a mountaineering journey spanning more than 30 years and four continents.

Her story, which she shared with an enthusiastic crowd at the Bright Brewery on Monday night this week, is one of patience, resilience and the quiet power of backing yourself no matter the setbacks.

Jeannette is deeply passionate about demystifying modern-day myths of Everest, highlighting not only the reality behind the headlines of crowds and trash but also the critical impacts of climate change on high-altitude environments.

“I believe that mountains don’t just shape us physically, they shape who we become as people," she said.

"Sharing my Everest story with the community feels like coming full circle and I hope it inspires others to protect and cherish these wild places we all call home.”

Beyond her personal achievements, Jeannette serves on leadership boards, guides snow camps in the Victorian Alps, and supports future adventurers through mountaineering scholarships.

She believes mountains are powerful teachers of courage and humility and her mission is to inspire others to explore their own limits with clarity and grit.

Monday night's evening with Jeanette kicked off Protect Our Winters (POW) Australia's Winter Series of community events.

As a passionate advocate for the mountains and climate action, POW Australia empowers outdoor enthusiasts to protect the places and experiences they love from the effects of climate change.

Their work connects athletes, businesses, and communities to drive systemic solutions and foster a thriving, snowy future for generations to come.