A Mackay company has been awarded a $6 million tender for construction of a levee wall to complete a “missing link” on the northern bank of the Pioneer River.

The reinforced concrete blockwork and earth levee and associated works, such as culverts and drainage, will be built between Valetta Gardens and Kay Court.

An earth levee was constructed along the northern bank as part of the Valetta Gardens and Rivers Edge subdivisions.

But that left a “missing link” of about 800 metres between the subdivisions and Ron Camm Bridge.

An ordinary meeting of council last week awarded the $6.13 million contract to Vassallo Constructions Pty Ltd.

The project received grant funding from the Australian Government.

As part of that funding agreement, construction must be completed by the end of June 2024.

Mayor Greg Williamson said two tenders were received for this important levee project.

“The panel assessment of the tenders determined that Vassallo Constructions have the expertise to deliver the works as required and provide the best value for money to council,’’ he said.

“They have managed projects in the Mackay region up to $100 million and committed to looking locally first when employing people for these projects.”

Mayor Williamson said the levee would assist Mackay’s resilience to riverine flooding.

“It is fantastic to see that this missing link will be completed over the coming 18 months,’’ he said.

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Caption: Funding for the levee on the Pioneer River’s northern bank was pledged by the Labor party pre-election during Mr Albanese’s visit to Mackay in January, 2022. L-R Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert, Mayor Greg Williamson, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese ( shadow Prime Minister when image was taken). Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Heavy rainfall in January has caused significant damage to creek crossings on Cathu Access Road resulting in the closure of Cathu State Forest until at least 24 February 2023.

The closure applies to all public access including cars, 4WDs, motor bikes, mountain bikes, horse riders and hikers and includes the Jaxut camping area.

A re-assessment of risks and road conditions will be undertaken by 24 February however road repairs may take longer, and the closure may be extended. Cathu State Forest is 4km west of the Bruce Highway, 72km or one hour north of Mackay.

The status of the closure will be updated at www.hqplantations.com.au/closures for areas managed by HQP and www.parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/cathu for the rest of the state forest.

Both organisations are appealing to the public to respect these closures so that safe and responsible access to the plantations can be restored as soon as possible.

State forest closures fall under the Forestry Act 1959 and can be enforced by Police, QPWS Rangers and Plantation Officers. Fines for non-compliance currently range from $286 to $1,430.

State and local government-managed roads may still be open unless otherwise indicated by police, barriers or other signage.

Enquiries can be directed to QPWS at email central.qpws@des.qld.gov.au or call 4936 0570 or for HQP-managed areas email information@hqplantations.com.au or call 07 3882 8240.

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Caption

Cathu State Forest is closed until at least February 24 due to damaged roads. Image credit: Queensland Government Department of Environment and Science

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Whether in ‘High Fidelity’ or ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’, Hollywood has taught us that mixtapes are a perfect way to share one’s feelings.

Making a mixtape, or these days, a mix CD or Spotify playlist, is an incredibly rewarding experience for any music lover, so what better way to express your love and affection to your crush, partner, friends or family this Valentine's Day.

While a mixtape should absolutely include special songs that hold sentimental value between you and the recipient, here are a few love songs to really get your loved ones in the feels.

Get ready to dance and sing along to these fantastic tracks that you and those closest will surely adore.

• Queen – You’re My Best Friend

• The Temper Trap – Sweet Disposition

• Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight

• Mazzy Star – Fade Into You

• Dolly Parton – I Will Always Love You

• John Paul Young – Love Is In The Air

• Tourist – We Stayed Up All Night (featuring Ardyn)

• Taylor Swift – Love Story

• Bee Gees – How Deep Is Your Love

• Dusty Springfield – The Look Of Love

• Japanese Breakfast – Everybody Wants To Love You

• Bruce Springsteen – Valentine’s Day

• Sonny & Cher – I Got You Babe

• Donnie & Joe Emerson – Baby

• The Cure – Friday I’m In Love

• The Beach Boys – Don’t Worry Baby

• INXS – Never Tear Us Apart

• Foreigner – I Want to Know What Love Is

• Kylie Minogue – Can’t Get You out of My Head

• Sinead O’Connor – Nothing Compares 2 U

• Willie Nelson – Valentine

• Nat King Cole – L-O-V-E

• The xx – Angels

• Jack Johnson – Better Together

• The Beatles – All You Need Is Love

• Kacey Musgraves – Golden Hour

• Etta James – At Last

• Elton John – Your Song

• Wolf Alice – Don’t Delete The Kisses

• Spandau Ballet – True

• George Benson – Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For You

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Campwin Beach’s Bear Cave is producing some the most exquisite timber carvings you could wish to see.

Mark Chisler worked as a diesel fitter for Plane Creek Mill from 1981 to his retirement in 2016, never once used a wood saw or claw hammer at work, yet today is busy in retirement working 25 hours a week in the Bear Cave on his carvings, which each take at least 40 hours’ work.

The Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre stocks some of his carvings. His range includes lions, dragons, sea horses, unicorns and inlaid tables, to name a few.

One table is inlaid with a sea horse, another has turtles and shells carved and inlaid and covered with liquid glass. Another has carved images from the Game of Thrones series.

The timber was sourced from the cuttings of large trees in River Street which were cut back by the council.

Mark moved to Campwin in 1984, marrying wife Kim in 1986.

“Campwin would have to be one of the loveliest beaches in Australia,” he said.

“We walk it each day and we often collect shells which I use in the carvings.

“There is a beach here some residents call Turtle Bay, despite it being rocky and not at all suitable for turtles, but we do have turtles nesting at Sarina Beach and sometimes at Campwin.”

The Bear Cave was built in 1990 as an annex to their home, and today Mark often puts in a 25-hour week on his creations, usually working 8-11am.

His first attempt at woodwork was a relief carving which still has pride of place in the Bear Cave, which today is filled with his creations.

“I use recyclable timbers to create the carvings which are made from pieces of ply; I’m not cutting down big trees to make them,” he said.

“I draw in freehand all the designs for the carvings and go from there.”

Mark’s father Noel Chisler worked as an engine driver in the railways for 40 years, retiring in 1988, at the age of 58. He was able to retire as he one of the first non-staff at the time to invest in superannuation when it was not available to drivers.

“He encouraged me to be in superannuation and it’s the best advice he ever gave.”

The Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre is open 9-1 Monday to Saturday and has a large range of crafts by talented local crafters.

By Charlie Payne

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Mark and Kim Chisler in the Bear Cave at Campwin Beach with one of Mark’s sea turtle carvings, which opens up for a favourite picture. Photos: Charlie Payne

Images:

Mark Chisler with one of his sea turtle carvings

A table inlaid with a seahorse

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Tammi O’Shea knows the people of Sarina as well as the halls of its hospital better than most.

The nurse unit manager has lived in Sarina since the tender age of four and made the decision to take up nursing in her early high school years.

“I have two aunties in nursing and a great aunt, so I’ve known since about Grade Nine that I wanted to be a nurse,” Tammi said.

After completing her degree at CQ University, she started working at Sarina Hospital as a post-grad registered nurse and over the course of the next 10 years she worked her way up to the position of nurse unit manager.

She loves her job and the Sarina lifestyle.

“It’s a four-minute drive to work, and I spend plenty of time on the floor,” Tammi said.

“Sarina is a great location with a fantastic team.

"We enjoy the opportunity to get to know our patients and provide them with more personalised care.”

Tammi has had the opportunity to visit the construction site of the new Sarina Hospital and is excited to watch it taking shape.

“I have been involved since the initial planning stages including reviewing the floor plans,” Tammi said.

“It has been awesome to see these plans come to life at the new site with more and more progress made each week.

“I am excited to continue working on the transition across the highway which for me will involve tasks like recruitment of new nurses, staff training and familiarisation and equipment selection.

“A fresh new facility for Sarina is just what the doctor ordered!”

By Mackay Hospital and Health Services

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Caption: Foreground: Nurse Unit Manager Tammi O’Shea

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Picnicking at Sarina Beach will be better than ever, with two new covered barbecue areas set to be installed at Owen Jenkins Drive Park.

Council, in response to requests made by the Sarina Beach Progress Association, will be constructing two new park shelters and replacing the park’s old single barbecues with two new double hot plate units, which will also be wheelchair accessible.

The barbecues will be installed under the two new shelters for all weather use and protection.

Two additional picnic settings will also be fitted offering increased seating capacity in the popular beachside park.

As part of these upgrades, disabled car parking and path access to the existing and new picnic shelters will be constructed.

BH Building will be undertaking the work on behalf of council which started last month, with construction expected to take eight weeks to complete, weather permitting.

Construction will take place between the hours of 7am to 6pm, Monday to Friday. Some weekend work may also be required.

While works are under way the playground will remain operational, however parking along the front of the park will be temporarily closed.

Traffic control will be in place to assist motorists while the road is partially closed for two days, weather permitting.

One coconut palm will be removed to allow for construction of a pram ramp and new path. The palm tree will be replaced with three new shade trees.

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Two large items of property have been located by the Sarina police. Officers are keen to return them to the rightful owner.

If you are the owner or know the owner, please contact Sarina Police and quote QP2300043718.

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If you are looking for a unique experience, try a fun run on the beach at the upcoming CRUISIN’ THE COAST Sarina Beach event this May.

Held annually at the picturesque Sarina Beach, the fun run has grown in size each year and has become a trademark event for the region.

Powered by Community Bank Sarina, the 5km Community Walk plus 3km, 5km or 10km runs are returning favourites, with the 21.5km half marathon a challenge for those more experienced competitors.

The event is family friendly, and spectators are more than welcome to enjoy the hot coffee and spectacular views.

Check Community Bank Sarina Facebook page for all upcoming events and opportunities www.facebook.com/communitybanksarina

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Images from the 2022 Cruisin’ The Coast fun run

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Sarina High School students are kicking off the year with some extra cash in their pockets thanks to Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s annual scholarship program.

Zali Hooper and Chelsea Trusz were the deserving recipients of the 2023 scholarships, which provide support to assist SSHS students with their educational costs. The scholarship program is designed to promote and encourage community engagement, building the students’ confidence and developing them into the region’s future leaders.

Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank also is offering CQUniversity Scholarships for those commencing study in 2023. If you’re a first year apprentice or degree student through CQUniversity this year, you are eligible to apply for the $4000 apprenticeship scholarship or a $6000 higher education scholarship. There are two scholarships available per category and they can assist with travel costs associated with studying, learning materials like textbooks, the purchase of tools or a toolbox and other related work or study expenses.

Applications are open now and close 31 March, if you're interested in applying please contact executive@sarinacommunity.com.au for the application pack.

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Peak sugarcane industry body CANEGROWERS is calling on Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) to explain the reasoning behind its decision to abandon a long and successful commercial partnership with Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) for the operation of the state's bulk sugar terminals.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said the bulk sugar terminals, which give Australian sugar a competitive edge over other sugar exporting nations, were built on the back of investment by growers, but STL had failed to consult growers before announcing its decision.

"These terminals are industry assets, and they remain one of our main competitive advantages, allowing Australian sugar to be traded as a reliable, high quality, sustainable product into our most valuable markets in a timely manner," Mr Menkens said.

"There seems little justification for this change and it appears to be more about corporate manoeuvring."  

Mr Menkens also questioned why STL had not made clear in its public statements that the current operating agreement with QSL requires a three-year notice period.

"STL have not consulted with anyone in industry about this matter and they have chosen not to make it clear that their agreement with QSL has a three-year notice period," he said.

"While technically CANEGROWERS has no say in this agreement, given their stated intent, we call on STL to clearly explain to growers why they are determined to take this course of action."

There is no disputing that QSL has operated the terminals safely and efficiently, and its performance has been highly scrutinized.

Mark Gray, Chair of STL, stated: "In an effort to reduce costs, increase efficiencies and eliminate conflicts of interest, STL has decided to terminate its Operating Agreement with Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL). This move positions STL to better serve the industry in the future. As STL is already responsible for all operating costs and capital investment funding, it makes sense for us to operate the BSTs directly. A simplified structure will streamline operations, remove duplicated efforts, and clear up any conflicting interests in the current outsourced agreements."

Gray continued: "The duplication of costs from the QSL Board, Executive, support functions, insurance policies, and auditing requirements are unnecessary. Eliminating this duplication in corporate overhead costs will provide a permanent reduction in expenses, clarify accountability and responsibilities, and increase transparency, leading to potential additional cost savings for the sugar industry."

CANEGROWERS is now calling on STL to make clear:

1. how they intend to operate the terminals to deliver lower operating costs and an improvement in efficiency

2. how these cost savings will flow through to growers

3. what the forward operating strategy is for the terminals

4. how STL will ensure this strategy is used to benefit the Australian sugarcane industry and not be distracted seeking alternative business models driven by a focus on shareholder returns

"The successful operation of these terminals is vital to the overall success of Australia's sugarcane industry," Mr Menkens said.

"QSL's smooth and efficient operation of our terminals has ensured the industry maintained a competitive edge. This move by STL is threatening that competitive advantage and growers are rightly concerned. They deserve an explanation."

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Caption: Sugar Terminals Limited has announced it has decided to in-source the operations of its Bulk Sugar Terminals, located at Cairns, Mourilyan, Lucinda, Townsville, Mackay and Bundaberg. Image: Mackay Bulk Sugar Terminal

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CANEGROWERS Mackay Area Committee (MAC) met with Mackay Sugar representatives last week to improve industry collaboration and urge a successful crushing season in 2023.

Evaluating the key impacts of the 2022 crush, that extended into January 2023 and saw just short of 95% of the sugar cane crop processed, MAC Chairman Joseph Borg and Mackay Sugar Chairman and Nordzucker Group Manager Michael Gerloff, along with Mackay Sugar CEO Jannik Olejas, identified several key topics to address in the lead up to next season.

Acknowledging the impact of weather and the increasing crop during the season, Mr. Borg said, “Milling performance was certainly a vital topic we wanted to address, on behalf of Mackay local growers and harvester groups.

“Throughout last season, Mackay Sugar’s milling performance was substandard overall, despite some positive signs of improvement, such as the relatively good rate and reliability at Racecourse mill,” he said.

“The other key factor in seeing a more successful 2023 season is identifying solutions to overcome the widespread labour and skills shortage that is affecting both the growing sector and milling maintenance and operations.

“CANEGROWERS Mackay is already acting on behalf of the grower and harvesting sector on the issues, in the lead up to the coming season” Mr Borg said.

“Mr Gerloff clearly outlined Mackay Sugar’s strategy and reaffirmed Nordzucker’s commitment to the region, which has given me a level of confidence.”

For Mackay Sugar, the meeting was an important next step in maintaining open and transparent communication and collaboration with growers and industry representatives.

“Nordzucker Group invested in Mackay Sugar because we saw great value in the region and local industry and this has not changed,” Mr Gerloff explained.

“If anything, the significant increase in crop size we saw last year strengthens our commitment, and further fuels our plans to see Mackay Sugar operate as the sustainable and agile business we know it will be,” he said.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both parties confirmed the importance of ongoing collaboration and industry alignment when it comes to ensuring a sustainable business for all parties.

“We all want the same thing - and that’s productive crops with efficient crushing seasons, making the most of what our region can deliver,” said Mr Olejas.

“Whilst we can’t control things like the weather, we can deliver improved performance in the mills with the ultimate ambition to ensure that even the largest of crops - farmed and safeguarded by committed growers - can be processed.”

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QUICK QUIZ CAN MAKE YOU $100 RICHER

How much do you know about dengue fever?

Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regional councils are calling on residents to take the dengue quiz as part of their annual awareness campaign.

The quiz will test your knowledge on how dengue is spread, where dengue mosquitoes breed, and how you can help prevent the spread.

Everyone who enters the competition will go into the draw to win one of five $100 Porters Mitre 10 vouchers.

The annual dengue campaign is part of an EHWIM (Environmental Health Whitsunday Isaac and Mackay) initiative.

Mayor Greg Williamson said dengue was something that everyone living in the tropics needed to be mindful of.

“The wet season is upon us, and dengue mosquitos (Aedes aegypti) will be breeding,” he said.

“They breed in stagnant water around the home left in buckets, pot plant bases and containers, as well as gutters.

“That’s why it’s so important to tip out any stagnant water, throw out any rubbish lying around your yard, clean out your gutters and store items that can hold water in a dry place.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall said residents living in north and central Queensland communities needed to be aware of the signs to look for when it came to dengue.

“The symptoms of dengue fever include headaches, fevers, aches and pains, nausea, vomiting and, in some rare cases, can result in death,” she said.

“If you experience any of these symptoms, please see a doctor immediately.”

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said residents in an area prone to mosquitos should take adequate steps to protect themselves from being bitten.

“When outdoors, make sure you wear long sleeves, trousers, a hat and use an effective insect repellent,” she said.

“To prevent mosquitoes from entering your house, check your window and door screens to ensure they don’t have any holes in them.

“You can also spray surface spray at all the entry points to your house to deter insects from entering your house.”

To complete the dengue quiz and go into the draw to win one of five Porter’s Mitre 10 vouchers visit mackay.qld.gov.au/dengue. Entries will close at 5pm on Sunday, March 12, and you must be a resident living in Mackay, Isaac or Whitsunday regional council areas to be eligible.

For further dengue prevention tips visit health.qld.gov.au/dengue.

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Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or something a bit more creative, a festive drink is a great way to add a touch of romance to your Valentine's Day celebration.

With a bit of sweetness and a bit of excitement, a romantic Valentine's Day cocktail could be a classic Champagne Cocktail, made by adding a sugar cube, a few drops of bitters, and a splash of brandy to a flute of champagne. The bubbles and festive nature of champagne, combined with the sweet and slightly bitter flavor from the sugar and bitters, make for a celebratory and romantic drink.

Non-alcoholic option – use non-alcoholic champagne and omit the brandy.

Spice things up with a Love Potion Cocktail, made by mixing raspberry liqueur, triple sec, and vodka with a splash of cranberry juice and a squeeze of lime. The sweet and fruity flavors, combined with the hint of tartness from the cranberry and lime, create a delicious and romantic drink that is perfect for toasting to your love.

Did someone say Strawberry Mimosa? This cocktail is made by mixing champagne with strawberry puree or syrup. The combination of bubbles and sweetness from the strawberries makes for a delicious and romantic drink. You can also add a splash of orange juice for added flavour.

Make it pretty as a petal with a Rose Petal Martini. This cocktail is made by mixing gin, vermouth, and rose water. The addition of rose water adds a subtle floral flavour that is both unique and romantic. You can also rim the glass with edible rose petals for added decoration.

Whether you enjoy something sweet and fruity or something a bit more complex, these drinks are sure to impress your special someone.

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Dating is hard enough in this day and age – regardless of your age. But for me it’s gotten to a point where even those nearest and dearest are concerned about my lack of love life!

Scotty, my co-host, has taken it upon himself to help me along this Valentine’s Day by taking over my Tinder and entering me in our True Love on A Treadmill comp on the 16th of February. We’re getting a bunch of single men and women from Mackay and the Whitsundays to join us at Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre for a round of speed dating… at speed. If you’re unlucky in love, it’s a low-pressure way to put yourself out there. You can register on our website star1019.com.au – with prizes to also be won!

If you’re already loved up with a boo than here’s my cute but easy guide to making your lover swoon this V-Day:

● Flowers are great but they die, buy your girl a voucher to her favourite hairdresser or beauty salon instead.

● Ladies, don’t skimp on the gifts! Your man will only be a more reluctant gift giver if it’s another day he has to work out what to give you but he gets nothing in return – why not put together an IOU booklet? It could be fun, cheeky or useful!

● Don’t underestimate how romantic it can be to go sit at a nice spot like the Slade Point Lookout or Mount P Lookout with some nibbles and have a good conversation.

● And if all else fails (or you’re single) agree to gift to yourself because the person who loves you the most should be you!

Happy loving from your unlucky in love cupid,

- Kaley

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With added stress and workplace pressure rising, external family dynamics and increased living costs it’s no wonder that 1-in-5 employees took time off over the past year for mental health.

That’s 20 per cent of your workforce.

Issues faced by your employees can keep them from doing their best work and as a result can lead to high staff turnover, absenteeism, presenteeism, lost productivity and a loss in revenue.

The cost to workplaces is substantial – $10.9 billion – according to a recent PwC commissioned by beyondblue, Australian Government and the Mentally Healthy Workplace Alliance.

There is good news though, while there are major costs to Australian workplaces, there are also significant rewards for those who do something about it. For every $1 spent on creating a mentally healthy workplace there is on average a $2.30 return.

Creating a mentally healthy workplace involves a variety of steps with one of most crucial being the introduction of employee assistance programs (EAP).

Through employee assistance programs like selectability’s EAP+ you can support your team while supporting your business.

Employee assistance programs (EAP) are designed to support and enhance the emotional, mental and general psychological wellbeing of your employees and their family. The program is designed to boost employee’s performance by helping them to resolve personal and work-related issues.

selectability partners with organisations to deliver a range of EAP services to support employee wellbeing.

Acting General Manager Clinical Services Kate Stevens said selectability’s approach emphasised early intervention and included a range of proactive preventative measures and strategies.

“Through our EAP+ we work alongside employees and support them to build resilience, which in turn can improve workplace performance,” said Kate.

“Mentally heathy workplaces take effort from everyone. Ensuring employees are happy and well supported at work is one of the most important jobs for any employer.

“There are situations that arise that can prevent employees from doing their best work. This can lead to a reduction in productivity while also negatively impacting other employees.

“As a result, employers have come to recognise the benefits of EAP in keeping their employees healthy and happy.”

Here are four benefits of signing up to selectability’s employee assistance program…

✔  Reduction in staff turnover

Having EAP that is accessible to all can build loyalty. Employees who feel valued are less likely to be unhappy in the workplace and quit.

✔  Reduction in sick days and workplace absenteeism

Did you know that absenteeism is often a result of an employee’s personal problems? EAP encourages employees to deal with problems that otherwise left can escalate.

✔  Improve staff morale

Stress related issues including decreased performance and absenteeism affect the whole workforce not just the individual. Someone experiencing high level of stress may become defensive, argumentative and less communicative at work. EAP can help by providing support as well as an outlet to discuss their issues.

✔  Increase performance and productivity

Those dealing with unresolved issues tend to lose sleep. They may also lose concentration, have accidents, overreact and underperform. Often these attitudes are infectious and will spread throughout teams. Accessing an EAP session can be a simple solution to keep the workplace healthy and happy.

Take care of your employees and they will take care of your business.

For more information email clinical@selectability.com.au or call 1800 573 253.

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