Manapan Furniture

Manapan is an Indigenous owned business producing bespoke, high-end furniture from the remote island of Milingimbi, just off the north coast of mainland Australia.

Manapan began with a clear vision which still guides the business today. To produce sophisticated and timeless furniture that champions local artistry and Yolngu culture, while providing successful and sustainable economic and employment opportunities for the Yolngu people of Milingimbi.  Alongside the esteemed Workshop, the Manapan Academy provides a space for interested locals and school students to explore their talents and build their skills, with the opportunity to progress to full-time employment in the Workshop.

The result is an engaged and thriving community of skilled workers who produce exquisite furniture, merging modern designs with traditional stories and customs distinct to East Arnhem Land. Every piece holds a unique story to tell.

To be named the Northern Territory State Winner in the Building Communities category is a testament to the incredible work that Manapan does to support community employment and training pathways. Further, receiving this award reflects the importance and brilliance of Yolngu people, culture, stories, and traditions.

“The entire Manapan team is humbled by this award.  This is another piece added to the Manapan Story that is built upon 65,000 years of indigenous culture.  We hope that through this award we will be able to share our story even further and in turn, build on and expand the opportunities we provide to the First Nations of East Arnhem Land,” said Ben Cocker, Manapan Manager.

Manapan Furniture’s incredible work was celebrated with the 2024 Telstra Best of Business Awards Northern Territory Building Communities Award.