On October 19, Ms McDonald, a geography-history teacher, will embark on the treacherous 96km mountain trek alongside 11 other adventurous women from around Australia to raise money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

She aims to raise $5000, towards the foundation's breast cancer research program.

Ms McDonald was inspired by her mother Jean's battle with breast cancer which took her life at 45 years of age.

She said the prevalence of the disease in her family compelled her to do something to help.

"I began by hosting a Girls' Night In fundraiser," she said.

"But my grandmother and my mother both had breast cancer, so my sister and I decided 'right, we need to do something'.

"Since she is not quite as sporty as I am, I ended up being the one to apply for the trek ... though I'm not quite sure what I've gotten myself in for."

Ms McDonald said she was hitting the gym several times a week and walking an hour every day in preparation, and she had roped her husband in for lengthy bush treks on the weekend for added motivation.

But one of the best motivations will be returning to her school with a collection of tales to share with her students.

"Being a history teacher, I thought this would be a great story to tell kids when we are studying World War II at school."

To sponsor Ms McDonald, log onto www.everydayhero.com.au/Kristy-Mc Donald.

Ms McDonald is also organising several fund-raising events. Phone 0421 278 959 or email kristymcdonald81@hotmail.com if you would like to help.