Freestones Transport

17/07/2026

https://bigrigs.com.au/2026/07/14/its-the-people-ill-miss-most-transport-stalwart-looks-back-on-45-plus-years/

Based in Melbourne, Robert Watts has served as National Operations Manager at Freestone’s Transport for close to 20 years.

29/06/2026

Vale Ian Byrne
Night Operations Manager – Freestone Transport
30 June 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our much-loved colleague and friend, Ian Byrne, after a short illness.
For the past seven years, Ian was the heart of our night operations at Freestone Transport. While much of his work was done behind the scenes and while most of us were asleep, Ian ensured that our business never stopped moving. His calm approach, dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment gave confidence to our drivers, our customers and everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Ian had a remarkable ability to solve problems, support his team and put people first. Whether it was taking a late-night phone call, helping a driver through a difficult situation, or quietly making sure everything was running as it should, Ian did it with patience, integrity and genuine care. Nothing was ever too much trouble.
More than the role he performed, it was the person Ian was that made him so respected. He was humble, dependable, generous with his time and always willing to lend a hand. His quiet strength and sense of humour made him a trusted friend to so many within the Freestone family.
The transport industry is built on people who work tirelessly while others sleep, and Ian exemplified that spirit every single night. His contribution to Freestone Transport cannot be measured simply by years of service, but by the countless lives he touched and the lasting impact he made on our team.
On behalf of Paul and Chrissy Freestone, the management team and every member of the Freestone Transport family, we extend our deepest condolences to Ian's family, friends and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
Ian's passing leaves an enormous void within our organisation, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Thank you, Ian, for your loyalty, your leadership, your friendship and your unwavering dedication. Your legacy will continue to inspire us, and your memory will always hold a special place in the Freestone Transport family.
Rest peacefully, Ian.
You will always be remembered, and you will never be forgotten.

02/06/2026

Acknowledgements
No one spends over 45 years in the transport industry without the support, guidance, and friendship of many people along the way.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to the many drivers, managers, office staff, mechanics, customers, and colleagues I have worked alongside throughout my career. Each of you has played a part in making this journey both rewarding and memorable.
In particular, I would like to thank Paul and Christine Freestone. Over many years, their support, trust, encouragement, and leadership have helped shape my career and provided opportunities that allowed me to grow both professionally and personally. Their belief in me, especially during challenging times, has been greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten.
Together, we have shared successes, overcome obstacles, faced difficult decisions, celebrated achievements, and navigated the many changes that have occurred within the transport industry. The experiences and lessons learned along the way have been invaluable.
As I prepare to retire, I do so with a great sense of gratitude—not only for the career I have enjoyed, but for the people who have been part of it. While trucks, depots, customers, and technology may change, it is the relationships built over a lifetime that leave the greatest impression.
To everyone who has been part of my journey, thank you.
After 45 years in Australian road transport, I leave with many memories, lifelong friendships, and immense pride in what we have achieved together.
The road ahead is now a different one, but the memories of the road travelled will stay with me forever.
Thank you all and Go Team Freestones.
— Robert Watts 🚛🇦🇺

02/06/2026

Adding a little humour to our day, Left to Right, Robert Watts, Paul Freestone and Daniel Keohane.

27/04/2026

Just how much can a Koala Bare? a little bit of fun with AI