Brunkerville: Nature Trails and Anzac Day Commemorations

Brunkerville offers two distinct reasons to visit: The Old Brush combines natural areas, trails and daytime activities; commemorations are held every year on Anzac Day in the Memorial Garden at Brunkerville Uniting Church. Trail length and gradients are important factors when choosing a hike; the commemoration takes place on a set date.

Natural Areas and Daytime Activities at The Old Brush

The grounds of The Old Brush cover 40 acres of rainforest. Leaf-covered walking trails, mown picnic areas and lily ponds define the grounds; there is also a creek, if it is flowing. Wildlife includes many bird species, kangaroos and other animals. Sightings are possible, but not guaranteed. Nature watching and trails are therefore available alongside picnic areas, which offer a different focus. Day visitors can also use the grounds for yoga, meditation, art, writing and picnics. These activities range from exercise and relaxation to creative pursuits and a break outdoors. If you are visiting for a particular activity, check the current arrangements before your visit.

Compare Hiking Routes

The trails differ in length, layout and gradients. The Honeymoon Trail is 1 km each way and passes through large eucalypts, turpentine and white mahogany trees, ferns and shady gullies; some sections are steep. Palm Gully is an easy 1.8 km loop, but has a steep section. The Clifftop Lookout is a 4 km loop that is steep in places and has safety ropes.

When comparing the trails, the route format matters as much as the length: the Honeymoon Trail’s 1 km is one way, while Palm Gully and Clifftop Lookout are loops. Palm Gully’s easy rating should also be considered alongside its steep section. This lets you weigh distance, trail type and gradient separately. Across the full range of trails, the stated durations are between 15 minutes and two hours, and difficulty ranges from easy to difficult. Maps are available from the office. Check the current arrangements for obtaining maps before your visit. The time range applies to the full range of trails; for the three routes mentioned, length and gradient can instead be compared as separate criteria.

Anzac Day Commemorations

Commemorations are held every year on Anzac Day in the Memorial Garden at Brunkerville Uniting Church, starting at 3 pm. The set date differs from a visit focused mainly on the trails or daytime activities at The Old Brush. If the commemoration determines your travel dates, check the local arrangements in advance.

Discover more destinations: Quorrobolong, Bellbird, Abernethy, Wollombi, Rothbury

Return to the broader travel guide: Cessnock City Council.