Earlier this year, I had the privilege of returning to Jikilaruwu Country on the Tiwi Islands — my homeland, where my story begins. It wasn’t a business trip. It was a personal and powerful journey home. One filled with quiet reflection, shared memories, and the undeniable strength that comes from reconnecting with Country and culture.
As a proud Tiwi man, I often talk about the value of knowing who you are and where you come from. But standing once again on the land of my ancestors, breathing in the sea breeze and hearing the language, laughter, and stories of my people — I felt a deeper clarity. A renewed sense of purpose. And above all, a deep gratitude.
That connection — to Country, culture, and community — is at the heart of how I lead. And it’s at the heart of Pandanus Workforce.
A Legacy 50 Years in the Making
In 2026, Pandanus Workforce will proudly celebrate 50 years of connection to the Northern Territory. This milestone isn’t just a business anniversary — it’s a cultural and community achievement. It represents five decades of walking alongside people, projects, and places that have shaped the Territory we know today.
Our journey began with a simple purpose: to create opportunity.
Over the decades, we’ve grown from humble beginnings into a trusted partner across the civil construction, infrastructure, and renewable energy sectors. But no matter how far we’ve expanded, one thing has never changed: our deep respect for and commitment to Territory people and places.
We’re not a workforce provider that just services the NT — we are the NT. Our workforce, our leadership, and our values are all deeply rooted here.
More Than Labour Hire
At Pandanus Workforce, we often challenge the traditional labels. We’re known as a Labour hire business — but we see ourselves as more than that.
We are a people-first organisation. We believe in long-term relationships, not short-term placements. We understand that behind every project are human stories — of families, of aspirations, of culture and connection. And we take the time to honor those stories in how we recruit, how we operate, and how we lead.
What’s made this approach sustainable over the last 50 years isn’t just strategy — it’s soul. We’ve been able to build something lasting by aligning our commercial success with community benefit. We invest in people — particularly local and First Nations talent — and that investment returns tenfold in commitment, capability, and community impact.
Territory Tough, Community Strong
Over the years, we’ve seen the Northern Territory grow through challenges, change, and opportunity. And we’ve been there — in the heat, in the dust, in the middle of it all — helping to build what comes next.
We’ve proudly supported major infrastructure works, solar farm projects, and regional workforce development, bringing together some of the best operators, trades, and labourers across the NT. But equally, we’ve been there at the grassroots: supporting individuals to enter the workforce, helping families create economic independence, and working with Traditional Owners to build pathways that honor both culture and commerce.
There’s no substitute for local knowledge. And there’s no shortcut to genuine relationships. These truths have shaped every decision we’ve made over the past 50 years — and will continue to guide us into the future.
Grounded Leadership
My recent trip to Tiwi wasn’t just a chance to reconnect — it was a personal reminder of why this business exists in the first place. Family. Country. Legacy. These are the foundations of Pandanus Workforce.
Leadership, to me, is not just about driving results. It’s about walking with people — listening, learning, and never forgetting the responsibilities we carry as leaders who serve both community and industry.
As we approach our 50-year milestone, I reflect on the generations before me who made sacrifices, who pushed through barriers, and who dreamed of a better future for their children. I carry those dreams today — and I see it as my responsibility to continue creating spaces where others can thrive, grow, and lead.
Looking Ahead to the Next 50
2026 won’t just be a celebration of where we’ve come from — it will be a launchpad for what’s next.
Our vision is to keep expanding opportunities across the Territory. To continue creating meaningful jobs. To strengthen relationships with Traditional Owners and local communities. And to keep setting the standard for what a culturally grounded, values-led workforce partner can be.
The future is bright — and it’s being built right here, by local hands, on local land, with local heart.
Thank you to our community, clients, workforce, and partners who have been part of the Pandanus journey. Here’s to the past 50 years — and to the next.
