‘How do we reach them better, and what does that mean for the required skills and competencies of our workforce?’ A/Prof Spinks asked.
Rhiannon Price, Pharmacist at King Edward Memorial Hospital.[/caption]
Caspar Townsend MPS, Pharmacist at Perth Children's Hospital compounding unit[/caption]
Iraq Doali, NSW-based locum pharmacist and content creator[/caption]
PSA has announced the winners of the South Australian and Northern Territory Pharmacist Awards, recognising outstanding pharmacists who have demonstrated excellence in their practice and dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for their communities.
‘Congratulations to [the] SA/NT award winners, who are advancing patient care in their local communities and beyond,’ said PSA SA/NT President, Adjunct Professor Manya Angley FPS.
Pharmacist of the Year – Dr Paul Tait FPS
The PSA SA/NT Branch has named Dr Paul Tait FPS as Pharmacist of the Year 2026, recognising his outstanding leadership in digital health, palliative care, research and integrated care. With more than 30 years of experience spanning hospital practice, research and professional leadership – Dr Tait is widely recognised for strengthening pharmacists’ roles within integrated multidisciplinary care teams.
Contributing to PSA’s education resources and mentoring health professionals across disciplines have enhanced pharmacists’ confidence and impact in complex care environments.
Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Stephanie Lee MPS
Early Career Pharmacist of the Year, Stephanie Lee MPS has been recognised for innovation, expanded scope service delivery and leadership in rural healthcare. As the first community pharmacist in South Australia to administer long-acting injectable buprenorphine, she has significantly improved access to evidence-based treatment for opioid dependence, reducing barriers to care and supporting safer, more dignified patient outcomes.
Ms Lee is also a passionate advocate for community engagement, professional development, and integrated care. Through health education presentations, expanded-scope services including mental health first aid, urinary tract infection management, and oral contraceptive supply – alongside close collaboration with local hospitals – she has strengthened health literacy and care quality across her rural community of Bordertown.
Intern Pharmacist of the Year – Li Ann Ching MPS
Li Ann Ching MPS was recognised as the Intern Pharmacist of the Year for her outstanding performance and professionalism throughout her intern year, demonstrating a strong commitment to patient-centred care and expanded pharmacy services.
By delivering a wide range of professional services – including vaccination, heart health checks, travel consultations and hospital-to-home discharge reviews – Ms Ching has excelled in her commitment to patient health, while also supporting the provision of professional services in the pharmacy, such as dose administration aids and MedsChecks.
Lifetime Achievement Award – Grant Kardachi AM FPS
Grant Kardachi AM FPS was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in Adelaide, recognised for his extraordinary contribution to the pharmacy profession spanning over 5 decades. As a highly respected leader, advocate, and mentor, Mr Kardachi has played a pivotal role in shaping contemporary practice across Australia.
Widely regarded as a pioneer of consultant pharmacy, Mr Kardachi was a key player in the 1996 Community Pharmacy Model Practices Project, leading to the introduction of Home Medicines Reviews and Residential Medication Management Reviews. These essential healthcare services have transformed medicines stewardship and continue to improve the safe and effective use of medicines for Australians.
Serving more than 30 years of leadership, representing PSA at branch and national levels, including as National President from 2011 to 2015, Mr Kardachi has advanced professional standards, education, and patient-centred care.
PSA Gold Medal – Matthew Weimann
The PSA were also delighted to present Matthew Weimann with the prestigious PSA Gold Medal for his exceptional academic achievement. Following graduation, Mr Weimann is currently completing his intern year at The Queen Elizabeth Hospital where he is stimulated by his interactions with patients and clinical complexity.
The PSA Gold Medal recognises the student with the highest-grade point average, above 6.25, studying a Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of South Australia. The Gold Medal has been awarded in South Australia since 1896 but only when there is a candidate that meets the stringent requirements of this award. Mr Weimann joins this elite group of pharmacists to receive the Gold Medal.
‘These award recipients represent some of the best of the pharmacy profession,’ Prof Angley said. ‘Their innovation, dedication, and passion are essential as we respond to the evolving health needs of our communities.’
