Ravensbourne National Park, QLD

A great place to stop if you are travelling between Brisbane and Toowoomba and need to stretch your legs. Ravensbourne National Park is an oasis in the middle of a dry land.

600m from the main road - Esk Hampton Rd - lies Ravensbourne National Park. Next to the car park are multiple picnic tables and somewhat hidden is a toilet block. Beyond the picnic tables, the track to the Rainforest Circuit begins.

The circuit can be traversed in either direction. In a clockwise direction there 77 stairs to assend, as opposed to 23 going anticlockwise. So if your 'old enemy' is stairs, go anticlockwise. Time permitting, you can also explore Buaraba Creek and the Palm Creek Circuit.

One of the most majestic aspects of this bushwalk are the Sydney Blue Gums. They are magnificent. There are lots of overhanging branches along the path, which is not particularly well made or maintained. The track assumes a degree of common sense from the bushwalker.

The palm forest reminded me of the national parks on Tamborine Mountain. So many palm trees with the forest floor covered in palm fronds. Often the path was the deliniator between bush and rainforest.

Ravensbourne National Park was a wonderful discovery. For a short while life could be put on hold while peace was breathed in. It was lifegiving to spend time in this place.