Ransome Archives - Manly Today

System Operation and Purpose

The AFRWS are designed to automatically activate when floodwater reaches a level considered unsafe for vehicle passage. The highly visible LED signs display messages such as “ROAD CLOSED AHEAD” and “ROAD CLOSED – NO ENTRY,” alerting drivers to the hazardous conditions.

These systems are powered by solar energy and batteries, ensuring they remain operational even during severe weather events that may cause power outages. Cameras have also been installed at these locations, allowing council staff to monitor and respond remotely. The purpose of these systems is to stop drivers from entering dangerous flood waters.

Locations and Expansion

The AFRWS are currently operational in various locations throughout Brisbane. In the eastern suburbs, residents will find them at Billan Street/Gray Street in Carina, Boston Road and Formosa Road in Belmont, Fursden Road in Carina, Gladys Street in Stones Corner, Manly Road in Tingalpa, Molle Road in Ransome, and Wynnum Road in Tingalpa.

Other locations across Brisbane include north, south, and west areas, covering many flood-prone roads. Brisbane City Council has stated that they will continue to investigate additional locations to install these systems, aiming further to enhance road safety during periods of heavy rainfall.

Other Road Safety Initiatives

In addition to the AFRWS, the council has implemented other road safety measures. Wildlife Awareness Monitors (WAMs) have been installed to warn drivers of potential wildlife crossings, and Speed Awareness Monitors (SAMs) are in place to encourage adherence to speed limits. The council emphasises its commitment to making Brisbane roads safer for all users.

Other Road Safety Initiatives

Published Date 12-March-2025

Ransome couple Amanda and Matt McKay proved that “Great things come from hard work and perseverance” when they turned their home-based play mat business into a million-dollar empire while staying home at the height of the pandemic.

Amanda opened Freddy & Co, her online business, soon after giving birth to her son, Freddy in 2016. She had the idea to supply play mats that were fun, safe, and educational (and adult-friendly!) when she noticed a gap in the market. Her husband, a former Socceroo, gave his full support and helped Amanda launch the Freddy Co online site in 2017.

“When Freddy & Co launched there were no safety standards for baby play mats in Australia. Although there were mats that claimed to be non-toxic they didn’t have the testing to back it up,” the couple said on their official site.

“Then there were the baby play mats that were non-toxic but not stylish. Some were educational and others looked pretty – Freddy & Co wanted all these things! This was the problem we hope to solve not just for ourselves, but for other families too.”

After sourcing non-toxic polyurethane, which has been tested for its quality and high standards in the U.S. and Europe, the pair then worked on designs and touch-based with a manufacturer in China.

Their business started slowly as Amanda was still working as a maths/science teacher. While Matt retired from professional football, his focus on Freddy & Co was as a side hustle.

But when the pandemic hit, the couple changed course and worked on their home business full time from their home in Ransome. The side hustle then became full-time work that paid off quite substantially as they experienced an 82 per cent growth for 2020/21.

After more than 17,000 orders across the country, the play mat business is now a staple in many Australian homes with kids. However, Amanda and Matt still maintain their business as a fully online endeavour though they plan to participate in expos by 2023.

The couple said they worked hard to build Freddy & Co’s online marketing and SEO. Running a business from home has been rewarding, as they have more time to be with their kids. After Freddy, the couple also welcomed Patrick and Ruby.

Get connected to Freddy & Co on Instagram.

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A post shared by Baby Play Mats, Toys & More (@freddy.and.co)

Tag: Ransome

Flood Warning Systems Prove Effective in Belmont, Tingalpa, and Ransome

System Operation and Purpose

Locations and Expansion

Other Road Safety Initiatives

Other Road Safety Initiatives

Ransome Couple Grows Play Mat Business from Home into a Million-Dollar Empire