Staff start fruit day

 WESTPAC staff have decided to make a fresh start and live more healthy and active lives. 

They kicked off their new initiative last Wednesday with a “fruit day” where staff at the Down Town head office were encouraged to bring fruit to work every week as an alternative to fatty and sugary “junk food”.

The day was set up to promote the bank’s theme, “Health, Safety & Well Being at Westpac Pacific” which is designed to encourage staff to lead safe, healthy and active lives – in and out of the workplace. 

Fruit day is just one of a number of initiatives at the bank. 

Regional manager, SME and branch sales, Yawetau Salem has organised an early morning walking group for staff looking to get in shape.

“The walks give us a great start to the day, they relieve stress, help get us into shape,” Salem said. 

The bank supports a bi-annual sports day, where staff from branches all over the country descend on Port Moresby to compete against each other in the “Westpac Sporting Weekend”. 

According to head of retail banking, Adam Downie the benefits of a healthy workforce apply to both the company and its staff. 

“A healthy workforce can positively impact on absenteeism and staff energy levels,” he  said.