Johnstone gradually developed into a midfielder possessing terrific vision and skill, who in 2006 for the second year in a row, led the team in the Brownlow Medal, with 11 votes.

In 2007 Johnstone struggled to capture his best form and was not helped by an Achilles tendon injury holding him to only 15 games.

Throughout his career at Melbourne, Travis Johnstone was recognised as one of the AFL's most dangerous and talented midfielders; however, he often struggled for consistency, and finished in the Truscott Medal top ten only twice.

New coach Dean Bailey was openly looking for high draft picks and Johnstone was considered a more expendable, yet of decent value.

Arguably his finest game for Brisbane to date came in the Lions' Round 8, 2008 win over Carlton where Johnstone amassed 32 disposals, six tackles and three goals.