Mandrill Plus 6m Flying Fox by Funky Monkey Bars

The design challenge was to create a large-scale, multifunctional play and fitness frame that encourages kids to stay active while complementing modern Australian backyards. The Mandrill Plus needed to balance form and function - delivering durability, safety, and modular adaptability, while maintaining a visually sleek, low-profile aesthetic. Despite its substantial footprint, the design had to sit flush within various outdoor environments, integrating seamlessly through clean lines, symmetry, and a considered use of negative space. It also had to withstand harsh weather conditions, comply with Australian safety standards, and be manufactured in-house using local materials and precision powder-coating.

The Mandrill Plus was developed through thorough prototyping, customer feedback, and in-house engineering to solve the challenge of creating a modular play and fitness frame that grows with families. A key moment was refining the core upright structure to allow seamless add-ons without compromising stability or aesthetic. The team focused on clean lines, proportion, and a horizontal visual flow to ensure the large frame felt cohesive and unobtrusive in a backyard setting. Challenges included weight distribution for freestanding safety and weather resistance, overcome through precise material selection and our in-house powder-coating process. The result is a refined, future-proof play solution.

The Mandrill Plus has had a significant impact across commercial, environmental, and societal fronts. Commercially, it has expanded our product range and attracted a broader customer base seeking long-term, modular backyard solutions. Environmentally, it’s made from locally sourced Australian steel and manufactured entirely in-house, reducing transport emissions and ensuring quality control. Societally, it promotes healthy, outdoor lifestyles for children and families, encouraging movement, connection, and screen-free time. Its durable, upgradeable design reduces the need for replacement, supporting sustainability and value over time. The Mandrill Plus reflects our commitment to Australian-made innovation with lasting benefits for homes, communities, and the planet.

- Two 3m x 900mm, nine-rung, height-adjustable monkey bars that grow up with kids from 1.2 to 2.3 metres. - 6m Floating Flying Fox (the only one on the market) with a patented connector and choice of Button Swing or Handle (load rating of 130kg). - 3m-high Combat Ladder (included in the 2020 Sports & Lifestyle Winner Product "The Combat Ninja"), 2 x Jungle Ropes, Cargo Net and Firefighters Pole. - Rubber Swing, Sling Swing, Trapeze and a Large Nest Swing. - 8m (L)x 3.6m (W) x 3m (H) - Load rated to 1,620kgs. Modular Design: Fully customisable frame with interchangeable accessories that grow with the user, from toddler play to teen and adult fitness. Freestanding Structure: No concrete footings required; safe and stable on various surfaces including grass and soft fall. Australian-Made: Crafted from premium Australian steel, cut and powder-coated in-house for quality, safety, and durability. Sleek Aesthetic: Clean lines, balanced proportions, and colour customisation allow it to blend seamlessly into backyard spaces. All-Ages Functionality: Designed for shared play and exercise, encouraging movement, connection, and screen-free outdoor time. Weather-Resistant: Engineered to withstand harsh Australian climates. Colour Customisation: Available in a wide range of Dulux colours including a Colourbond range to match home design.