HAMZAH DRIVE, COTTSWOLD HILLS
John Trousdell Park is a small, 11 hectare bushland reserve set in the heart of a semi-rural residential area. The short, gravel walking circuit descends and ascends a steep gully, passing by a dam that fills after rain. The main recreational area is packed with features, including a playground, picnic area with BBQ and toilets, learn-to-ride bike track, courts for tennis, basketball and handball, cricket practice nets and multiple ovals.
About The Name... This park shares its name with a nearby street in Cottswold Hills. John George Trousdell was an early Irish immigrant, farmer and grazier who settled in Goombungee in the late 1800s. He and his wife raised twelve children, including John Thomas Trousdell, who represented Queensland in the Australian Amateur Cycling Championships.
BUSHWALKING GUIDE
Grade |  Moderate |
Distance | 1.2km |
Trail Type | loop |
Walking Time | 40min |
Amenities/Suitable For:
Parking:
The entrance to John Trousdell Park is off Hamzah Drive.
The walking trail/facilities are set back from the road, with the carpark accessible via a driveway beside the tennis court.
There are only 4 parking spaces available, and limited turn-around space, so it may be necessary to park on the street/verge.
Note: There is a hidden, unfenced water hazard (dam) next to the car-park - please supervise children carefully.
There is no access to John Trousdell Park via the Dhal Rd cul-de-sac.
The Walk: John Trousdell Circuit (40min)
This trail is usually well-mown, and wide enough for a vehicle the whole way around. There is limited shade along the way, so wear a hat/sunscreen - or better still, walk in the early morning/late afternoon so you can enjoy the experience. The gravelled surface has degraded over time, and walkers should watch their step for unexpected dips/holes in the path. I prefer to complete this trail in a clock-wise direction for the hills. The council guide suggests 40min total walking time, however the loop can be completed in as little as 20min at a brisk pace.
Starting from the pond beside the carpark, follow the gravel path past the learn-to-ride bike track, playground and sports courts until the trail dips down into grassy bushland.
When you climb the next hill you will see a cement footpath and bridge to your left. Ignore these (local access for residents in the neighbouring street) and continue up the grassy hill until you reach the fenceline of a private property.
Turn right at the top of the hill and begin a careful descent down the steep cemented walkway. Don't forget to pause at the top and take in the bushland views to your right, and the rolling hills of Gowrie Mountain ahead.
Continue along the fenceline until the path reaches a metal farm gate then turns to the right. This section is mostly flat and lined with an assortment of pretty flowering weeds depending on the season.
The path descends briefly to the base of the gully then heads uphill again through a shadier section lined with mature hardwood trees. This brings you in sight of a dam (water level variable depending on recent rainfall), which provides a good spot for bird-watching.
Immediately after the dam is the second steep cement walkway - this time ascending. Conquer this short, sharp climb and you will be in sight of the playground/carpark.
Discover More...
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