Breaking the flare-up cycle
References
Price DB, Trudo F, Voorham J, et al. Averse outcomes from initiation of systemic corticosteroids for asthma: long-term observational study. J Asthma Allergy...
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[post_content] => Years of calculating exact medication dosages mirror Depinder Chhibber’s meticulous approach in the MasterChef kitchen, where every gram and garnish matters under intense pressure.
Depinder Chhibber has had a busy few years since last appearing on season 13 of MasterChef Australia in 2021.
In between appearing as a special guest chef on MasterChef India in 2023 to becoming a mother to two girls – she has still found time to stick to her pharmacy roots.
Ms Chhibber has even changed practice settings, moving from community pharmacy to industry, and onto hospital pharmacy when travelling with her husband for work.
‘The greatest gift I've ever received from my pharmacy degree is being able to get a job anywhere in the world,’ she said. ‘When we travelled around rural Australia, I had a job literally everywhere I went, and I couldn't be more grateful that I could work and help in those communities.’
Last year proved to be one of the most challenging yet rewarding years for Ms Chhibber, who balanced part-time work as a pharmacist, full-time motherhood while launching her supper club Ghar in Newcastle, New South Wales.
Ghar, which translates directly to ‘home’ in Hindi, perfectly captures the vibe Ms Chhibber sought to create with her supper club.
‘The food I’m serving is a sneak peek into every household in India – but elevated,’ she said. ‘Patrons are served individual portions on the same long table. Everyone interacts, because Indian food is all about community, sharing, and eating with your family and friends.’
Now, she is battling it out once again in the kitchen on MasterChef Australia: Back to Win, which brought back 24 standout contestants from previous seasons to compete in advanced challenges, eliminations, and immunity tests for a second chance at the title.
‘Because I wasn't busy enough, I went out and got onto MasterChef again,’ she laughed.
While Ms Chhibber said the MasterChef kitchen has the ‘same energy’ this time around, the stakes have risen.
‘It's very different from the previous season, because we're competing with people who have been in the food industry for many years and the competition is super stiff,’ she said.
Australian Pharmacist sat down with Ms Chhibber to discuss how her years in pharmacy have primed her for the most competitive season of MasterChef yet.
Clinical calm under kitchen pressure
During Pressure Tests, which occur during Masterchef elimination rounds, contestants must replicate a detailed recipe exactly – measuring ingredients, using precise techniques and plating as instructed. They must complete this task within a strict time limit and without any outside references – with accuracy, taste and presentation determining who stays and who goes.
To get through these tough tests, Ms Chhibber draws on her experience in the demanding world of dispensing medicines in a busy pharmacy.
When you’re on national television, the ‘miss one step and you’re out’ dynamic of pressure tests can be highly stressful. So too can dispensing Schedule 8 medicines, when a slight error could be career- or life-ending.
‘When you do a pressure test, you are highly focused. As much as they say you need to do one step at a time, you really need to multitask and move super fast at all times – because if you don't, you're not going to get through the recipe,’ she said.
‘As a pharmacist, you've got to multitask and work around different teams and steps. You're doing so many things at the same time – checking a script, looking over who's coming into your store and what Schedule 3 [medicine] has been handed out.’
Pharmacists are ultimately responsible for what goes on in the pharmacy, much like in a pressure test.
‘You've got a gas stove with three burners going, and at the same time you’ve got something in the oven on the other side. Then, the judges come and have a chat with you,’ Ms Chhibber said. ‘Staying calm under pressure, which I’ve learned over the years as a pharmacist, has really helped me this time around.’
From drug compounds to unexpected ingredients
In a MasterChef Mystery Box Challenge, each contestant is given a sealed box containing a hidden set of ingredients – often chosen by a guest chef. They must create a complete dish using only those ingredients and a limited ‘underbench’ pantry within 75 minutes. Once time’s up, the dishes are presented to the judges, who evaluate them on creativity, technical execution and flavour – with the top performers either earning immunity or other advantages in subsequent rounds.
Contestants will face entirely unknown ingredients in the mystery box, so their palate and resourcefulness really come into play, Ms Chhibber said.
‘That's very similar to reading medicine labels, because there'll be some ingredients that we won't know or have never experienced. But then you consult formulary references or search for similar compounds, or a particular drug class or excipient,’ she said. ‘You rely back on the basics to get you through that particular challenge.’
Counselling skills at the judging table
When a dish is ready for tasting, contestants present it to the judges – providing a brief summary that includes the dish’s name, highlights key ingredients and techniques, and describes the intended flavours.
With Ms Chhibber presenting a lot of Indian dishes, she distills her explanation just as she would when counselling a patient on a medication’s mechanism and effects.
‘We talk about medical jargon in pharmacy, but there’s a lot of food-related jargon as well,’ she said. ‘So I’ve had to simplify things for the judges in terms of ingredients or techniques. They’ve got it every time, so I must be doing something right.’
Balancing pharmacy passion with culinary ambitions
Although some may assume Ms Chhibber plans to pursue cooking full-time, she will always work as a pharmacist – even if only a couple of days a week.
‘I worked really hard to get to the point where I was where I am now, and it’s very hard to let that go,’ she said.
She is keen, however, to offer cooking ‘masterclasses’, much like the training session she presented while working in industry as a Senior Medical Affairs associate
‘Towards the end of my time in the pharmaceutical industry, I was presenting at a lot of conferences and running training sessions for our representatives that were working out on the field,’ Ms Chhibber said.
‘I think that would really resonate with running cooking classes, because it’s explaining new things to people and teaching them from the very bottom to develop those skills.’
Much like the breakfast mixer she co-hosted with PSA’s very own Chris Campbell on the ‘11 secret ingredients to the evolving role of pharmacists’ at PSA22, Ms Chhibber plans to make it fun.
‘That was one of the best things I've ever done which I would love to do again. I don’t think there was anyone who wasn’t paying attention or having a good time,’ she said. ‘It’s good to spice things up to keep it interesting.’
New pharmacy horizons
In terms of pharmacy, Ms Chhibber is keen to get more involved in Opioid Dependence Treatment.
‘I’ve done a lot of methadone dosing, which I really like because we get to see the changes and development in patients over the years,’ she said.
This process can take longer in some patients, who may not know how to ask for help.
‘But if they can come to a pharmacy and receive non-judgemental care, that’s something I feel quite passionate about,’ Ms Chhibber said.
Since becoming a mum, she’s also keen to offer paediatric care.
‘Now I've got a lot of personal experience with children and treating them for simple things that you don’t always need a GP for, I'm always encouraging parents to bring their kids to us to see if we can do something,’ she said.
‘They'd rather come into a pharmacy so they can get care earlier than wait for hours in the emergency department.’
Now that Network 10 has just issued the casting call for the next season of MasterChef Australia, Ms Chhibber encourages any other budding pharmacist chefs who are interested in cooking to give it a go.
‘Fortunately I was in a situation where my managers were very supportive and were more excited than I was,’ she said. ‘If you’ve got the right support, good stability, and can afford to do it, it's definitely worth it.’
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[post_content] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide further around-the-clock access to pharmacist care and expert advice for the community.
Terry White Chemmart Hallett Cove was officially unveiled as a 24/7 pharmacy – joining three others in Adelaide to offer non-urgent care outside usual hours – by PSA SA/NT President Dr Manya Angley FPS, Premier Peter Malinauskas, Treasurer Stephen Mullighan, Health Minister Chris Picton, and Member for Black Alex Dighton.
‘You never know when you’ll need health advice, medicines or support, Dr Angley said. ‘Having 24-hour access to pharmacist advice is a game changer for so many South Australians … meaning more people can access pharmacist services, from treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, to palliative care medicines to mental health first aid.’
Terry White Chemmart Hallet Cove joins a number of pharmacies around Australia operating around the clock, including:
Australian Pharmacist spoke with three pharmacists from across Australia who provide 24/7 pharmacy care to highlight just how vital this service is for communities.
Jeremy Sparks, Pharmacist in Charge of National Pharmacies Norwood[/caption]
‘We’ve dispensed more than 19,000 prescriptions, facilitating timely access to time-sensitive [medicines] such as antibiotics and analgesics for recently discharged or diagnosed patients, or just helping people who didn't realise they were out of their regular medications until they went to reach for a pill that wasn't there,’ he said.
‘We’ve also fielded around 4,000 calls, with most calls seeking advice on medication interactions, general medicines advice e.g. how to take, when to take, and if they should be worried about adverse effects), and the wide range of minor ailments we see in pharmacies every day, including bites, burns, rashes, gastrointestinal upsets and nausea.’
The highest demand out-of-hours prescriptions include inhalers for respiratory conditions, antibiotics and pain relief.
‘We like to think that providing timely access to medicines and analgesia has helped to prevent infections from progressing, and prevent or treat asthma attacks to reduce the amount of people presenting to EDs for easily preventable causes,’ Mr Sparks said.
‘Just recently we had a new mum discharged from hospital with her baby, and a parent needing antibiotics for a child’s ear infection. These are both situations where prompt access to their prescriptions improved outcomes.’
The team also fields a high volume of patient queries on minor wounds.
‘They can dress these wounds or assess and give recommendations about whether a visit to the hospital is really necessary.’
One of Norwood’s pharmacists encountered one of the strangest nights at the 24/7 pharmacy, where three patients who had all been on a flight from Sydney which ran late came in at separate intervals during the night.
‘The pilot decided to take off quickly from Sydney so they wouldn't miss the Adelaide Curfew, which unfortunately resulted in all their luggage being left behind,’ he said.
‘The first patient came in with eScripts to fill, the second thankfully just needed contact solution and a toothbrush, and the third was an elderly man with his son who needed his medication but had no scripts.’
With a speedy referral to a telehealth service, the Doctor immediately sent through eScripts for the elderly patient’s blood pressure and glaucoma medications.
‘And we were able to get him sorted without any missed doses.’
Lachlan Menouhos, Pharmacist Manager of Chemistworks in Wetherill Park[/caption]
‘Once they know we're open and they can get scripts filled all hours of the night, people who have been discharged from hospital come from all over Sydney – from the city to Campbelltown, Camden and the North Shore,’ he said.
A key service the pharmacy fulfills is an over-the-phone triage service – typically for older patients who need medicines advice or abnormal symptoms.
‘They call back the next day and they say, “thank you for referring me to the ED. It was a stomach ulcer or elevated blood pressure”.’
In terms of foot traffic, families typically benefit from the late-night service.
‘We see a lot of sick children after hours,’ Mr Menouhos said. ‘Often it’s parents who have been working during the day and couldn’t get to the doctor. They will get nappies, formula, and children’s Panadol and Nurofen.’
The after-hours service is greatly valued by the community. In 2023, 553 Chemistworks Wetherill Park customers completed a survey, finding that:
Mohamed Bassuny MPS, former Pharmacist Manager Bendigo UFS After Hours Pharmacy [/caption]
‘We covered a large demographic area, seeing patients as far as 60–70 kilometers away,’ he said. ‘So we decided to extend hours of service for the community, particularly with both Urgent Care Clinics and EDs being functional. You have to have a point of access for medication for these two services.’
As a ‘full scope’ pharmacy, the team prescribes medicines for patients under the Victorian Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot, which was recently made permanent.
‘When patients experience a severe UTI, we could provide a consultation, and prescribe and dispense, as well as analgesia, so they could have relief overnight,’ Mr Bassuny said.
‘If the patient went to the ED, they would have to wait long hours and only be able to get their medication dispensed the next day – as there is no pharmacy operating in the hospital overnight.’
Sometimes, the care that late-night pharmacies provide is life saving.
‘I had a patient come in with symptoms of a stroke – including heartburn and a tingling in the left arm – and they didn't know what's going on,’ he said.
After triaging the patient, Mr Bassuny called an ambulance.
‘Often patients push through until the next morning – but this is a critical time and can mean the difference between life and death,’ he said. ‘The patient came at a later time to thank us and said, “If you hadn't done that, the situation would have been much more serious”.’
[post_title] => How 24/7 pharmacies help to fill after-hours health gaps
[post_excerpt] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide around-the-clock access to pharmacist care for the community.
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[post_content] => Five pharmacists have been recognised in the 2025 PSA Victorian Pharmacy Awards, presented on Saturday night as part of the Victoria and Tasmania Annual Therapeutic Update in Melbourne.
The awards, presented by PSA Victoria President Dr Amy Page FPS, recognise pharmacists with an outstanding commitment to excellence in pharmacy practice, who demonstrate exceptional leadership, and who champion patient care.
‘These awardees represent the very best of our profession, from innovators and educators, to advocates who are improving patient care through pharmacy,’ Dr Page said.
‘PSA is proud to recognise pharmacists who not only deliver exceptional care but also lead with vision and purpose. Their work is a testament to the vital role pharmacists play in improving the health of all Australians.’
PSA Victorian Pharmacist of the Year – Sara Murdock MPS
Ms Murdock MPS is recognised for her outstanding leadership in community pharmacy, with over 20 years of service in Pascoe Vale. Her work has significantly contributed to public health through the implementation of accessible vaccination clinics, wellness programs, and interprofessional education initiatives.
Ms Murdock established the first local community vaccination clinic at a neighbourhood house and led school-based immunisation programs, improving vaccination rates and public confidence in pharmacist-led care. She also partnered with local sporting clubs to deliver wellness programs that support preventative health, mental wellbeing, and injury recovery – broadening the role of pharmacy in community health.
Her commitment to collaborative care is evident in her regular health education seminars for allied health professionals and her close work with GPs and aged care providers to ensure coordinated, person-centred care. In aged care, she delivers medication reviews, engages with residents and families, and trains nursing staff to optimise medication safety.
Ms Murdock is also a dedicated mentor, supporting pharmacists and students through practical guidance and leadership. Her ability to balance business ownership, single parenthood, and professional advocacy reflects her resilience and commitment to the profession.
Through her charity work and long-standing involvement in Rotary, Ms Murdock continues to advocate for health equity and support vulnerable populations. Her work exemplifies the vital role of pharmacists in delivering accessible, community-focused healthcare.
PSA Victorian Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Dr Wejdan Shahin MPS
Ms Shahin is recognised for her significant contributions to medication safety, pharmacist education, and digital health innovation. As a PSA-credentialed pharmacist, she has delivered Residential Medication Management Reviews, supporting safe and effective medicine use for older Australians.
Her leadership in education is demonstrated through her active role in PSA’s intern training program, where she develops and delivers workshops that strengthen clinical decision-making, communication, and medicines management skills. As a lecturer at RMIT University, Ms Shahin has embedded real-world case scenarios and role-playing into her teaching, enhancing student engagement and preparing graduates for patient-centred practice.
Ms Shahin’s commitment to inclusive healthcare is evident in her development of a medication adherence app for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. This project, supported by a competitive grant, aims to improve health literacy, reshape illness perceptions, and empower patients in self-management, highlighting her innovative approach to digital health.
She also mentors early career pharmacists, contributing to their confidence and readiness for practice. Her work aligns closely with PSA’s mission to support the profession and improve health outcomes through pharmacist-led care.
PSA Victorian Intern Pharmacist of the Year – Katelyn Beattie
Ms Beattie has demonstrated exceptional initiative, clinical insight, and leadership early in her pharmacy career. Within the first few months of her internship, she has taken an active role in dispensary operations, stepping in to guide workflow when needed and consistently prioritising patient care. Her proactive approach to improving pharmacy processes, enhancing efficiency and allowing more time for patient-focused care.
Ms Beattie’s work in the Webster (DAA) room has deepened her understanding of medication reconciliation and clinical risk management. Working closely with the DAA pharmacist, she has developed the skills to identify potential medication-related risks and suggest safer alternatives, such as optimising administration times. Her contributions have directly supported pharmacists in delivering safer, more effective care.
She has also built strong rapport with regular patients, who now actively seek her out for medication advice. This trust reflects her ability to communicate clearly and compassionately, and her commitment to helping patients achieve better health outcomes.
As part of a weekly intern learning group, Ms Beattie actively engages in tutorials and case discussions, often researching clinical questions and sharing her findings with peers. Her enthusiasm for learning and collaboration highlights her potential as a future leader in the profession.
PSA Victorian Lifetime Achievement Award – Joe Demarte FPS
Mr Demarte is recognised for his decades-long contribution to pharmacy practice, professional leadership, and health policy advocacy. Since qualifying as a pharmacist in 1973, Mr Demarte has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving pharmacy services and advancing the profession in Victoria and nationally.
Early in his career, Demarte established a community pharmacy in Brunswick that served a culturally diverse population. He introduced bilingual prescription labelling in languages such as Greek, Italian, and Turkish, and employed multilingual staff to ensure patients received clear, culturally appropriate medication counselling. His pharmacy extended trading hours and collaborated closely with local healthcare providers, setting a strong example of community-responsive care.
Demarte’s leadership within the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has been extensive. As National President from 2015, he played a pivotal role in securing a significant increase in funding for pharmacist-delivered professional services under the 6th Community Pharmacy Agreement – from $600 million to $1.26 billion. He also chaired PSA’s National Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee and the 6CPA Working Group.
At the state level, Demarte served as President of PSA’s Victorian Branch, where he oversaw the passage of the Pharmacists Act 2004, a key legislative milestone for the profession. He also represented PSA on national and state working groups focused on the responsible supply of pseudoephedrine, successfully advocating for continued patient access through pharmacies while addressing concerns about diversion.
Demarte continues to practise as a community pharmacist and remains a respected voice in pharmacy policy and practice. His career reflects a deep commitment to patient care, professional standards, and the evolution of pharmacy as a vital part of Australia’s healthcare system.
PSA Victorian Pharmacist Medal – Linda Ha
The Victorian Pharmacist Medal recognises the excellent contribution of pharmacists at the grass-root level in improving health outcomes and the wellbeing of the general public. This award seeks to tell the stories of the vital work of the quiet achievers within the pharmacy profession.
Ms Ha is recognised for her work as an aged care pharmacist, where she has delivered meaningful improvements to the health and wellbeing of some of Victoria’s most vulnerable residents. As one of the first onsite pharmacists in aged care prior to government funding, Ms Ha has led practical, patient-focused initiatives that have enhanced medication safety, reduced polypharmacy, and improved quality of life.
At Lifeview, she introduced an electronic psychotropic medication register with automated alerts, a pharmacist-led care plan evaluation process, and a time-sensitive medication protocol for Parkinson’s disease – each tailored to meet the real-world needs of residents and staff. Her stewardship program has reduced unnecessary antibiotic use, and her leadership in the EMBRACE trial has helped embed national dementia care guidelines into daily practice.
Ms Ha’s collaborative approach, including education for nurses, GPs, and families, has strengthened the role of pharmacists in aged care. Her work exemplifies the vital, often unseen, contributions pharmacists make at the frontline of care.
[post_title] => Victorian pharmacists leading innovation and excellence
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[post_content] => Australian and indeed international pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and pharmacy practice innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025) in Louisville Colorado, USA.
Ross completed his pharmacy training in the late 1950s via the old apprenticeship and materia medica-based course at University of Sydney while working at Hallam’s ‘Chemists to Sydney since 1883’ Pharmacy in Pitt Street (with another of our pharmacy innovators Ted Crook of Chemdata fame) before moving to the Hunter Street Branch, and then managing the King’s Cross premises.
His early desire to make things better and easier for pharmacists in the practice of their profession saw Ross develop a unique algorithm-based stock control system to use in these pharmacies.
This desire for improvement both professionally and personally saw him become closely involved with both hospital pharmacy and higher learning, resulting in his doctorates in educational training and development areas. How he applied this knowledge to the pharmacy sector, especially community pharmacy, created the basis of his lifelong commitment to the improvement of pharmacy practice – both in Australia and internationally.
His completion of the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia Fellowship program kindled the flame of how this model could be applied to community pharmacy which, with the support of PSA led to the formation of the Australian College of Pharmacy Practice (ACPP) – with Ross being its ‘founding father’, Registrar and Dean. That the College will once again be back under the aegis of PSA was welcome news to Ross in his last days.
[caption id="attachment_29498" align="aligncenter" width="500"]
L-R: Col (Rtd) Bill Kelly FPS, Dr Ross Holland AM FPS, Warwick Plunkett FPS and Peter Carroll FPS[/caption]
Ross’s vision of community pharmacists being able to undertake postgraduate studies in their chosen area of practice through distance learning created a wonderful opportunity undertaken by many in subsequent years, who were awarded Graduate Diplomas after having been subjected to the dreaded ‘Ross’s green pen’ marking comments.
The advent of remunerated medication reviews for pharmacists in Australia again saw Ross and ACPP come to the fore with specially developed training and education support programs. Likewise, the introduction and development of pharmaceutical care further cemented in place Ross’s vision of the expanded and rightful role of pharmacists in patient care – an area in which he contributed to extensively both nationally and internationally.
A prolific writer, Ross authored books on pharmacology and drug information, a wonderful series of journal articles (with his wife Christine) in the American Society of Health Systems Pharmacy journal on Transitions in Pharmacy Practice, as well as reviewing and editing numerous other works. His excellent work When to Refer published by PSA in 1999 was prescient – given that Australian pharmacists are now embracing a wider scope of practice.
Ross’s foray into the world of international pharmacy through both the International Federation of Pharmacy (FIP) and the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) saw his extensive contribution recognised with the awarding of his FIP Fellowship (2007) and the FAPA Ishidate Award (1988). His international training and development experience was also utilised to good effect with his involvement in Australian Government health-related aid programs in several South Pacific nations. He was also a past faculty member of the World Health Organization Regional Teacher Training Program, contributing to the development of clinical pharmacy in South Korea.
In recognition of his significant service to pharmacy practice, medical education and professional organisations, Ross was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2019 and was also made a Life Fellow of PSA – reflecting his enduring impact on the profession.
Ross was a true visionary in pharmacy and today’s pharmacists are benefitting greatly from his vision, energy and love of the profession to earn its rightful place in the delivery of patient care.
Ross is survived by his current wife, Christine, and children from his first marriage, Frederick, Adrienne, and Christopher. Ross is preceded in death by his first wife, Rosalind (Dec. 2001).
He leaves grandchildren and great grandchildren in Australia, an extended family in the US, and many loving friends, both within and outside of pharmacy.
[post_title] => Vale Dr Ross William Holland AM FPS
[post_excerpt] => Pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025).
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[post_content] => It’s no secret that Australia is bracing for one of the most intense influenza seasons in recent memory, with confirmed case numbers already reaching 89,165. And it’s not even winter yet – when influenza cases really start to take off.
Alarmingly, influenza vaccination is also at its lowest in some time, particularly among young children.
According to Dr Anthea Rhodes, paediatrician and Director of the Royal Children’s Hospital National Child Health Poll, the convergence of early flu activity and low vaccination rates is creating a perfect storm for severe illness and hospitalisation.
‘We were really struck, in the latest National Child Health Poll, how much confusion there still is among parents about whether or not it's recommended for kids [and] whether or not it's worthwhile,’ said Dr Rhodes on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne.
Why are the vaccination rates so low?
There has been an uptick in the number of children hospitalised for influenza in Victoria, Dr Rhodes said. But one of the most troubling revelations this season is the low rate of flu vaccination among children under 5 years of age, with just 13.9% of children in this age cohort receiving the vaccine.
‘As a community, we still think about flu as being an older person's illness,’ she said. ‘But in fact, younger kids, between 6 months and 5 years are the group second most likely to be hospitalised … with complications of flu.’
ONLY 3.9% of children < 5 years are up to date with flu vaccination.
Those complications include pneumonia – one of the leading causes of hospitalisation among Australian children.
Worryingly, many parents still view influenza as a mild illness in otherwise healthy kids, a perception Dr Rhodes says is both outdated and dangerous.
‘A third of parent respondents to the … poll indicated that they weren't aware that healthy kids can [get] seriously unwell from influenza,’ she said. ‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.’
Compounding the problem is a widespread misunderstanding about the need for annual vaccination.
‘Because the flu virus … keeps changing and moving around the world, we have to have a vaccine each year to get the best match for the strain that's in the community,’ Dr Rhodes said. ‘And people aren't aware of that.’
The National Child Health Poll also uncovered psychological barriers to vaccination, with rising rates of needle phobia among children.
‘We found that in children over 4, nearly a quarter are described as having a severe fear of needles, and 13% had parents tell us that’s the reason why they couldn't have the flu vaccine,’ Dr Rhodes said.
‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.'
DR ANTHEA RHODES
This fear often stems from a combination of anxiety and early negative experiences, such as those during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
‘Not everyone had a positive experience, [so] what we're seeing now is some of those kids coming back really fearful and avoiding having other vaccinations.’
Filling in childhood vaccination gaps
There is a naivety about the difference between a cold and the flu, said Karen Brown MPS, pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart in Arana Hills, Brisbane who regularly administers influenza vaccines to children 6 months and older.
[caption id="attachment_29505" align="alignright" width="234"]
Karen Brown MPS[/caption]
‘Even if they don't get sick enough to go to hospital, that parent doesn't have time to have a week off work to care for their child,’ she said.
While there has consistently been a focus on herd immunity and protecting those most vulnerable, the cost of living pressures has brought a new variable to the equation.
‘It’s always been about protecting grandma and grandpa, but now they realise, particularly if they know people who have had influenza, that if you have a really sick child for a week, it has a huge impact on your life.’
Ms Brown has been at the forefront of paediatric flu vaccination ever since Queensland allowed pharmacists to administer the vaccine to young children.
Her pharmacy has become a trusted destination for families due to its clear messaging and consistent availability.
‘We know what we're doing. We do every age group. There's no ‘will they won't they?’ They just know 7 days a week that they can walk in,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They know we'll always have the stock, we know the rules and the regulations, and they can walk in after school. We make it a really simple process.’
While infants and toddlers are a ‘piece of cake’ primary-school-aged children can be more challenging.
‘They know what's going on and they've got an opinion,’ she said.
But Brown and her team use a combination of humour, distraction and engagement to ease anxiety, with the pharmacy’s vaccination room decorated with caricatures of staff in a ‘Where’s Wally’-style poster to amuse their young patients
‘We’ll say to the kids, “Will I vaccinate you quicker than it takes for you to find my face?”’ she said.
Engaging children on their level is also crucial. “If they walk in with a superhero shirt on, you can say, “Who's your favourite superhero? What would Spider-Man do?’” she said.
Tackling rising needlephobia among children
While needlephobia is growing in prominence, there are ways to address, said Ms Brown – citing an example of a 6-year-old boy who was diagnosed with leukaemia 12 months earlier.
‘His mum gave us the heads up and said he is petrified of needles as a result of getting lots of chemo,’ she said.
In such cases, the key is to empower the child.
‘We said, “this is how it’s going to feel compared to having blood taken or having an infusion”. He also understood how important it was for him to get vaccinated to protect his immune system.’
Post-vaccination, it’s important to debrief with the child to prime them for the next time around.
[caption id="attachment_17706" align="aligncenter" width="500"]
Children after receiving their vaccinations at TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills, Brisbane. (Image: Karen Brown MPS)[/caption]
‘For example, you could say “remember for next time that you didn’t even feel me do it, and it’s not as bad as you thought”.’
Building trust and long-term loyalty
Childhood vaccination can be a powerful tool for pharmacies to build community trust.
‘That vaccine experience is a very good way to breed loyalty,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They will be customers of yours ongoing.’
‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.'
karen brown MPS
For hesitant pharmacists, she recommends administering your first vaccination to a child you’re familiar with – whether a family friend, someone from the local sporting club or a staff member’s child.
‘It’s almost like a trial,’ she said. ‘For example with COVID-19 vaccinations during the pandemic, my kids who were 7 and 8 years old at the time brought all their friends in, so they all did it together.’
And from there, it just gets easier. ‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.’
There are several session dedicated to vaccination at PSA25, held in Sydney from 1–3 August. Register here to attend.
[post_title] => ‘Get the flu vaccine for your kids as soon as you can’ warns paediatrician
[post_excerpt] => Why this paediatrician is speaking out about low childhood vaccination rates as more kids become hospitalised.
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[post_content] => Years of calculating exact medication dosages mirror Depinder Chhibber’s meticulous approach in the MasterChef kitchen, where every gram and garnish matters under intense pressure.
Depinder Chhibber has had a busy few years since last appearing on season 13 of MasterChef Australia in 2021.
In between appearing as a special guest chef on MasterChef India in 2023 to becoming a mother to two girls – she has still found time to stick to her pharmacy roots.
Ms Chhibber has even changed practice settings, moving from community pharmacy to industry, and onto hospital pharmacy when travelling with her husband for work.
‘The greatest gift I've ever received from my pharmacy degree is being able to get a job anywhere in the world,’ she said. ‘When we travelled around rural Australia, I had a job literally everywhere I went, and I couldn't be more grateful that I could work and help in those communities.’
Last year proved to be one of the most challenging yet rewarding years for Ms Chhibber, who balanced part-time work as a pharmacist, full-time motherhood while launching her supper club Ghar in Newcastle, New South Wales.
Ghar, which translates directly to ‘home’ in Hindi, perfectly captures the vibe Ms Chhibber sought to create with her supper club.
‘The food I’m serving is a sneak peek into every household in India – but elevated,’ she said. ‘Patrons are served individual portions on the same long table. Everyone interacts, because Indian food is all about community, sharing, and eating with your family and friends.’
Now, she is battling it out once again in the kitchen on MasterChef Australia: Back to Win, which brought back 24 standout contestants from previous seasons to compete in advanced challenges, eliminations, and immunity tests for a second chance at the title.
‘Because I wasn't busy enough, I went out and got onto MasterChef again,’ she laughed.
While Ms Chhibber said the MasterChef kitchen has the ‘same energy’ this time around, the stakes have risen.
‘It's very different from the previous season, because we're competing with people who have been in the food industry for many years and the competition is super stiff,’ she said.
Australian Pharmacist sat down with Ms Chhibber to discuss how her years in pharmacy have primed her for the most competitive season of MasterChef yet.
Clinical calm under kitchen pressure
During Pressure Tests, which occur during Masterchef elimination rounds, contestants must replicate a detailed recipe exactly – measuring ingredients, using precise techniques and plating as instructed. They must complete this task within a strict time limit and without any outside references – with accuracy, taste and presentation determining who stays and who goes.
To get through these tough tests, Ms Chhibber draws on her experience in the demanding world of dispensing medicines in a busy pharmacy.
When you’re on national television, the ‘miss one step and you’re out’ dynamic of pressure tests can be highly stressful. So too can dispensing Schedule 8 medicines, when a slight error could be career- or life-ending.
‘When you do a pressure test, you are highly focused. As much as they say you need to do one step at a time, you really need to multitask and move super fast at all times – because if you don't, you're not going to get through the recipe,’ she said.
‘As a pharmacist, you've got to multitask and work around different teams and steps. You're doing so many things at the same time – checking a script, looking over who's coming into your store and what Schedule 3 [medicine] has been handed out.’
Pharmacists are ultimately responsible for what goes on in the pharmacy, much like in a pressure test.
‘You've got a gas stove with three burners going, and at the same time you’ve got something in the oven on the other side. Then, the judges come and have a chat with you,’ Ms Chhibber said. ‘Staying calm under pressure, which I’ve learned over the years as a pharmacist, has really helped me this time around.’
From drug compounds to unexpected ingredients
In a MasterChef Mystery Box Challenge, each contestant is given a sealed box containing a hidden set of ingredients – often chosen by a guest chef. They must create a complete dish using only those ingredients and a limited ‘underbench’ pantry within 75 minutes. Once time’s up, the dishes are presented to the judges, who evaluate them on creativity, technical execution and flavour – with the top performers either earning immunity or other advantages in subsequent rounds.
Contestants will face entirely unknown ingredients in the mystery box, so their palate and resourcefulness really come into play, Ms Chhibber said.
‘That's very similar to reading medicine labels, because there'll be some ingredients that we won't know or have never experienced. But then you consult formulary references or search for similar compounds, or a particular drug class or excipient,’ she said. ‘You rely back on the basics to get you through that particular challenge.’
Counselling skills at the judging table
When a dish is ready for tasting, contestants present it to the judges – providing a brief summary that includes the dish’s name, highlights key ingredients and techniques, and describes the intended flavours.
With Ms Chhibber presenting a lot of Indian dishes, she distills her explanation just as she would when counselling a patient on a medication’s mechanism and effects.
‘We talk about medical jargon in pharmacy, but there’s a lot of food-related jargon as well,’ she said. ‘So I’ve had to simplify things for the judges in terms of ingredients or techniques. They’ve got it every time, so I must be doing something right.’
Balancing pharmacy passion with culinary ambitions
Although some may assume Ms Chhibber plans to pursue cooking full-time, she will always work as a pharmacist – even if only a couple of days a week.
‘I worked really hard to get to the point where I was where I am now, and it’s very hard to let that go,’ she said.
She is keen, however, to offer cooking ‘masterclasses’, much like the training session she presented while working in industry as a Senior Medical Affairs associate
‘Towards the end of my time in the pharmaceutical industry, I was presenting at a lot of conferences and running training sessions for our representatives that were working out on the field,’ Ms Chhibber said.
‘I think that would really resonate with running cooking classes, because it’s explaining new things to people and teaching them from the very bottom to develop those skills.’
Much like the breakfast mixer she co-hosted with PSA’s very own Chris Campbell on the ‘11 secret ingredients to the evolving role of pharmacists’ at PSA22, Ms Chhibber plans to make it fun.
‘That was one of the best things I've ever done which I would love to do again. I don’t think there was anyone who wasn’t paying attention or having a good time,’ she said. ‘It’s good to spice things up to keep it interesting.’
New pharmacy horizons
In terms of pharmacy, Ms Chhibber is keen to get more involved in Opioid Dependence Treatment.
‘I’ve done a lot of methadone dosing, which I really like because we get to see the changes and development in patients over the years,’ she said.
This process can take longer in some patients, who may not know how to ask for help.
‘But if they can come to a pharmacy and receive non-judgemental care, that’s something I feel quite passionate about,’ Ms Chhibber said.
Since becoming a mum, she’s also keen to offer paediatric care.
‘Now I've got a lot of personal experience with children and treating them for simple things that you don’t always need a GP for, I'm always encouraging parents to bring their kids to us to see if we can do something,’ she said.
‘They'd rather come into a pharmacy so they can get care earlier than wait for hours in the emergency department.’
Now that Network 10 has just issued the casting call for the next season of MasterChef Australia, Ms Chhibber encourages any other budding pharmacist chefs who are interested in cooking to give it a go.
‘Fortunately I was in a situation where my managers were very supportive and were more excited than I was,’ she said. ‘If you’ve got the right support, good stability, and can afford to do it, it's definitely worth it.’
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[post_content] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide further around-the-clock access to pharmacist care and expert advice for the community.
Terry White Chemmart Hallett Cove was officially unveiled as a 24/7 pharmacy – joining three others in Adelaide to offer non-urgent care outside usual hours – by PSA SA/NT President Dr Manya Angley FPS, Premier Peter Malinauskas, Treasurer Stephen Mullighan, Health Minister Chris Picton, and Member for Black Alex Dighton.
‘You never know when you’ll need health advice, medicines or support, Dr Angley said. ‘Having 24-hour access to pharmacist advice is a game changer for so many South Australians … meaning more people can access pharmacist services, from treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, to palliative care medicines to mental health first aid.’
Terry White Chemmart Hallet Cove joins a number of pharmacies around Australia operating around the clock, including:
Australian Pharmacist spoke with three pharmacists from across Australia who provide 24/7 pharmacy care to highlight just how vital this service is for communities.
Jeremy Sparks, Pharmacist in Charge of National Pharmacies Norwood[/caption]
‘We’ve dispensed more than 19,000 prescriptions, facilitating timely access to time-sensitive [medicines] such as antibiotics and analgesics for recently discharged or diagnosed patients, or just helping people who didn't realise they were out of their regular medications until they went to reach for a pill that wasn't there,’ he said.
‘We’ve also fielded around 4,000 calls, with most calls seeking advice on medication interactions, general medicines advice e.g. how to take, when to take, and if they should be worried about adverse effects), and the wide range of minor ailments we see in pharmacies every day, including bites, burns, rashes, gastrointestinal upsets and nausea.’
The highest demand out-of-hours prescriptions include inhalers for respiratory conditions, antibiotics and pain relief.
‘We like to think that providing timely access to medicines and analgesia has helped to prevent infections from progressing, and prevent or treat asthma attacks to reduce the amount of people presenting to EDs for easily preventable causes,’ Mr Sparks said.
‘Just recently we had a new mum discharged from hospital with her baby, and a parent needing antibiotics for a child’s ear infection. These are both situations where prompt access to their prescriptions improved outcomes.’
The team also fields a high volume of patient queries on minor wounds.
‘They can dress these wounds or assess and give recommendations about whether a visit to the hospital is really necessary.’
One of Norwood’s pharmacists encountered one of the strangest nights at the 24/7 pharmacy, where three patients who had all been on a flight from Sydney which ran late came in at separate intervals during the night.
‘The pilot decided to take off quickly from Sydney so they wouldn't miss the Adelaide Curfew, which unfortunately resulted in all their luggage being left behind,’ he said.
‘The first patient came in with eScripts to fill, the second thankfully just needed contact solution and a toothbrush, and the third was an elderly man with his son who needed his medication but had no scripts.’
With a speedy referral to a telehealth service, the Doctor immediately sent through eScripts for the elderly patient’s blood pressure and glaucoma medications.
‘And we were able to get him sorted without any missed doses.’
Lachlan Menouhos, Pharmacist Manager of Chemistworks in Wetherill Park[/caption]
‘Once they know we're open and they can get scripts filled all hours of the night, people who have been discharged from hospital come from all over Sydney – from the city to Campbelltown, Camden and the North Shore,’ he said.
A key service the pharmacy fulfills is an over-the-phone triage service – typically for older patients who need medicines advice or abnormal symptoms.
‘They call back the next day and they say, “thank you for referring me to the ED. It was a stomach ulcer or elevated blood pressure”.’
In terms of foot traffic, families typically benefit from the late-night service.
‘We see a lot of sick children after hours,’ Mr Menouhos said. ‘Often it’s parents who have been working during the day and couldn’t get to the doctor. They will get nappies, formula, and children’s Panadol and Nurofen.’
The after-hours service is greatly valued by the community. In 2023, 553 Chemistworks Wetherill Park customers completed a survey, finding that:
Mohamed Bassuny MPS, former Pharmacist Manager Bendigo UFS After Hours Pharmacy [/caption]
‘We covered a large demographic area, seeing patients as far as 60–70 kilometers away,’ he said. ‘So we decided to extend hours of service for the community, particularly with both Urgent Care Clinics and EDs being functional. You have to have a point of access for medication for these two services.’
As a ‘full scope’ pharmacy, the team prescribes medicines for patients under the Victorian Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot, which was recently made permanent.
‘When patients experience a severe UTI, we could provide a consultation, and prescribe and dispense, as well as analgesia, so they could have relief overnight,’ Mr Bassuny said.
‘If the patient went to the ED, they would have to wait long hours and only be able to get their medication dispensed the next day – as there is no pharmacy operating in the hospital overnight.’
Sometimes, the care that late-night pharmacies provide is life saving.
‘I had a patient come in with symptoms of a stroke – including heartburn and a tingling in the left arm – and they didn't know what's going on,’ he said.
After triaging the patient, Mr Bassuny called an ambulance.
‘Often patients push through until the next morning – but this is a critical time and can mean the difference between life and death,’ he said. ‘The patient came at a later time to thank us and said, “If you hadn't done that, the situation would have been much more serious”.’
[post_title] => How 24/7 pharmacies help to fill after-hours health gaps
[post_excerpt] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide around-the-clock access to pharmacist care for the community.
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[post_content] => Five pharmacists have been recognised in the 2025 PSA Victorian Pharmacy Awards, presented on Saturday night as part of the Victoria and Tasmania Annual Therapeutic Update in Melbourne.
The awards, presented by PSA Victoria President Dr Amy Page FPS, recognise pharmacists with an outstanding commitment to excellence in pharmacy practice, who demonstrate exceptional leadership, and who champion patient care.
‘These awardees represent the very best of our profession, from innovators and educators, to advocates who are improving patient care through pharmacy,’ Dr Page said.
‘PSA is proud to recognise pharmacists who not only deliver exceptional care but also lead with vision and purpose. Their work is a testament to the vital role pharmacists play in improving the health of all Australians.’
PSA Victorian Pharmacist of the Year – Sara Murdock MPS
Ms Murdock MPS is recognised for her outstanding leadership in community pharmacy, with over 20 years of service in Pascoe Vale. Her work has significantly contributed to public health through the implementation of accessible vaccination clinics, wellness programs, and interprofessional education initiatives.
Ms Murdock established the first local community vaccination clinic at a neighbourhood house and led school-based immunisation programs, improving vaccination rates and public confidence in pharmacist-led care. She also partnered with local sporting clubs to deliver wellness programs that support preventative health, mental wellbeing, and injury recovery – broadening the role of pharmacy in community health.
Her commitment to collaborative care is evident in her regular health education seminars for allied health professionals and her close work with GPs and aged care providers to ensure coordinated, person-centred care. In aged care, she delivers medication reviews, engages with residents and families, and trains nursing staff to optimise medication safety.
Ms Murdock is also a dedicated mentor, supporting pharmacists and students through practical guidance and leadership. Her ability to balance business ownership, single parenthood, and professional advocacy reflects her resilience and commitment to the profession.
Through her charity work and long-standing involvement in Rotary, Ms Murdock continues to advocate for health equity and support vulnerable populations. Her work exemplifies the vital role of pharmacists in delivering accessible, community-focused healthcare.
PSA Victorian Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Dr Wejdan Shahin MPS
Ms Shahin is recognised for her significant contributions to medication safety, pharmacist education, and digital health innovation. As a PSA-credentialed pharmacist, she has delivered Residential Medication Management Reviews, supporting safe and effective medicine use for older Australians.
Her leadership in education is demonstrated through her active role in PSA’s intern training program, where she develops and delivers workshops that strengthen clinical decision-making, communication, and medicines management skills. As a lecturer at RMIT University, Ms Shahin has embedded real-world case scenarios and role-playing into her teaching, enhancing student engagement and preparing graduates for patient-centred practice.
Ms Shahin’s commitment to inclusive healthcare is evident in her development of a medication adherence app for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. This project, supported by a competitive grant, aims to improve health literacy, reshape illness perceptions, and empower patients in self-management, highlighting her innovative approach to digital health.
She also mentors early career pharmacists, contributing to their confidence and readiness for practice. Her work aligns closely with PSA’s mission to support the profession and improve health outcomes through pharmacist-led care.
PSA Victorian Intern Pharmacist of the Year – Katelyn Beattie
Ms Beattie has demonstrated exceptional initiative, clinical insight, and leadership early in her pharmacy career. Within the first few months of her internship, she has taken an active role in dispensary operations, stepping in to guide workflow when needed and consistently prioritising patient care. Her proactive approach to improving pharmacy processes, enhancing efficiency and allowing more time for patient-focused care.
Ms Beattie’s work in the Webster (DAA) room has deepened her understanding of medication reconciliation and clinical risk management. Working closely with the DAA pharmacist, she has developed the skills to identify potential medication-related risks and suggest safer alternatives, such as optimising administration times. Her contributions have directly supported pharmacists in delivering safer, more effective care.
She has also built strong rapport with regular patients, who now actively seek her out for medication advice. This trust reflects her ability to communicate clearly and compassionately, and her commitment to helping patients achieve better health outcomes.
As part of a weekly intern learning group, Ms Beattie actively engages in tutorials and case discussions, often researching clinical questions and sharing her findings with peers. Her enthusiasm for learning and collaboration highlights her potential as a future leader in the profession.
PSA Victorian Lifetime Achievement Award – Joe Demarte FPS
Mr Demarte is recognised for his decades-long contribution to pharmacy practice, professional leadership, and health policy advocacy. Since qualifying as a pharmacist in 1973, Mr Demarte has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving pharmacy services and advancing the profession in Victoria and nationally.
Early in his career, Demarte established a community pharmacy in Brunswick that served a culturally diverse population. He introduced bilingual prescription labelling in languages such as Greek, Italian, and Turkish, and employed multilingual staff to ensure patients received clear, culturally appropriate medication counselling. His pharmacy extended trading hours and collaborated closely with local healthcare providers, setting a strong example of community-responsive care.
Demarte’s leadership within the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has been extensive. As National President from 2015, he played a pivotal role in securing a significant increase in funding for pharmacist-delivered professional services under the 6th Community Pharmacy Agreement – from $600 million to $1.26 billion. He also chaired PSA’s National Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee and the 6CPA Working Group.
At the state level, Demarte served as President of PSA’s Victorian Branch, where he oversaw the passage of the Pharmacists Act 2004, a key legislative milestone for the profession. He also represented PSA on national and state working groups focused on the responsible supply of pseudoephedrine, successfully advocating for continued patient access through pharmacies while addressing concerns about diversion.
Demarte continues to practise as a community pharmacist and remains a respected voice in pharmacy policy and practice. His career reflects a deep commitment to patient care, professional standards, and the evolution of pharmacy as a vital part of Australia’s healthcare system.
PSA Victorian Pharmacist Medal – Linda Ha
The Victorian Pharmacist Medal recognises the excellent contribution of pharmacists at the grass-root level in improving health outcomes and the wellbeing of the general public. This award seeks to tell the stories of the vital work of the quiet achievers within the pharmacy profession.
Ms Ha is recognised for her work as an aged care pharmacist, where she has delivered meaningful improvements to the health and wellbeing of some of Victoria’s most vulnerable residents. As one of the first onsite pharmacists in aged care prior to government funding, Ms Ha has led practical, patient-focused initiatives that have enhanced medication safety, reduced polypharmacy, and improved quality of life.
At Lifeview, she introduced an electronic psychotropic medication register with automated alerts, a pharmacist-led care plan evaluation process, and a time-sensitive medication protocol for Parkinson’s disease – each tailored to meet the real-world needs of residents and staff. Her stewardship program has reduced unnecessary antibiotic use, and her leadership in the EMBRACE trial has helped embed national dementia care guidelines into daily practice.
Ms Ha’s collaborative approach, including education for nurses, GPs, and families, has strengthened the role of pharmacists in aged care. Her work exemplifies the vital, often unseen, contributions pharmacists make at the frontline of care.
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[title_attribute] => Victorian pharmacists leading innovation and excellence
[title] => Victorian pharmacists leading innovation and excellence
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[post_content] => Australian and indeed international pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and pharmacy practice innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025) in Louisville Colorado, USA.
Ross completed his pharmacy training in the late 1950s via the old apprenticeship and materia medica-based course at University of Sydney while working at Hallam’s ‘Chemists to Sydney since 1883’ Pharmacy in Pitt Street (with another of our pharmacy innovators Ted Crook of Chemdata fame) before moving to the Hunter Street Branch, and then managing the King’s Cross premises.
His early desire to make things better and easier for pharmacists in the practice of their profession saw Ross develop a unique algorithm-based stock control system to use in these pharmacies.
This desire for improvement both professionally and personally saw him become closely involved with both hospital pharmacy and higher learning, resulting in his doctorates in educational training and development areas. How he applied this knowledge to the pharmacy sector, especially community pharmacy, created the basis of his lifelong commitment to the improvement of pharmacy practice – both in Australia and internationally.
His completion of the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia Fellowship program kindled the flame of how this model could be applied to community pharmacy which, with the support of PSA led to the formation of the Australian College of Pharmacy Practice (ACPP) – with Ross being its ‘founding father’, Registrar and Dean. That the College will once again be back under the aegis of PSA was welcome news to Ross in his last days.
[caption id="attachment_29498" align="aligncenter" width="500"] L-R: Col (Rtd) Bill Kelly FPS, Dr Ross Holland AM FPS, Warwick Plunkett FPS and Peter Carroll FPS[/caption]
Ross’s vision of community pharmacists being able to undertake postgraduate studies in their chosen area of practice through distance learning created a wonderful opportunity undertaken by many in subsequent years, who were awarded Graduate Diplomas after having been subjected to the dreaded ‘Ross’s green pen’ marking comments.
The advent of remunerated medication reviews for pharmacists in Australia again saw Ross and ACPP come to the fore with specially developed training and education support programs. Likewise, the introduction and development of pharmaceutical care further cemented in place Ross’s vision of the expanded and rightful role of pharmacists in patient care – an area in which he contributed to extensively both nationally and internationally.
A prolific writer, Ross authored books on pharmacology and drug information, a wonderful series of journal articles (with his wife Christine) in the American Society of Health Systems Pharmacy journal on Transitions in Pharmacy Practice, as well as reviewing and editing numerous other works. His excellent work When to Refer published by PSA in 1999 was prescient – given that Australian pharmacists are now embracing a wider scope of practice.
Ross’s foray into the world of international pharmacy through both the International Federation of Pharmacy (FIP) and the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) saw his extensive contribution recognised with the awarding of his FIP Fellowship (2007) and the FAPA Ishidate Award (1988). His international training and development experience was also utilised to good effect with his involvement in Australian Government health-related aid programs in several South Pacific nations. He was also a past faculty member of the World Health Organization Regional Teacher Training Program, contributing to the development of clinical pharmacy in South Korea.
In recognition of his significant service to pharmacy practice, medical education and professional organisations, Ross was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2019 and was also made a Life Fellow of PSA – reflecting his enduring impact on the profession.
Ross was a true visionary in pharmacy and today’s pharmacists are benefitting greatly from his vision, energy and love of the profession to earn its rightful place in the delivery of patient care.
Ross is survived by his current wife, Christine, and children from his first marriage, Frederick, Adrienne, and Christopher. Ross is preceded in death by his first wife, Rosalind (Dec. 2001).
He leaves grandchildren and great grandchildren in Australia, an extended family in the US, and many loving friends, both within and outside of pharmacy.
[post_title] => Vale Dr Ross William Holland AM FPS
[post_excerpt] => Pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025).
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[post_content] => It’s no secret that Australia is bracing for one of the most intense influenza seasons in recent memory, with confirmed case numbers already reaching 89,165. And it’s not even winter yet – when influenza cases really start to take off.
Alarmingly, influenza vaccination is also at its lowest in some time, particularly among young children.
According to Dr Anthea Rhodes, paediatrician and Director of the Royal Children’s Hospital National Child Health Poll, the convergence of early flu activity and low vaccination rates is creating a perfect storm for severe illness and hospitalisation.
‘We were really struck, in the latest National Child Health Poll, how much confusion there still is among parents about whether or not it's recommended for kids [and] whether or not it's worthwhile,’ said Dr Rhodes on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne.
Why are the vaccination rates so low?
There has been an uptick in the number of children hospitalised for influenza in Victoria, Dr Rhodes said. But one of the most troubling revelations this season is the low rate of flu vaccination among children under 5 years of age, with just 13.9% of children in this age cohort receiving the vaccine.
‘As a community, we still think about flu as being an older person's illness,’ she said. ‘But in fact, younger kids, between 6 months and 5 years are the group second most likely to be hospitalised … with complications of flu.’
ONLY 3.9% of children < 5 years are up to date with flu vaccination.
Those complications include pneumonia – one of the leading causes of hospitalisation among Australian children.
Worryingly, many parents still view influenza as a mild illness in otherwise healthy kids, a perception Dr Rhodes says is both outdated and dangerous.
‘A third of parent respondents to the … poll indicated that they weren't aware that healthy kids can [get] seriously unwell from influenza,’ she said. ‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.’
Compounding the problem is a widespread misunderstanding about the need for annual vaccination.
‘Because the flu virus … keeps changing and moving around the world, we have to have a vaccine each year to get the best match for the strain that's in the community,’ Dr Rhodes said. ‘And people aren't aware of that.’
The National Child Health Poll also uncovered psychological barriers to vaccination, with rising rates of needle phobia among children.
‘We found that in children over 4, nearly a quarter are described as having a severe fear of needles, and 13% had parents tell us that’s the reason why they couldn't have the flu vaccine,’ Dr Rhodes said.
‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.'
DR ANTHEA RHODES
This fear often stems from a combination of anxiety and early negative experiences, such as those during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
‘Not everyone had a positive experience, [so] what we're seeing now is some of those kids coming back really fearful and avoiding having other vaccinations.’
Filling in childhood vaccination gaps
There is a naivety about the difference between a cold and the flu, said Karen Brown MPS, pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart in Arana Hills, Brisbane who regularly administers influenza vaccines to children 6 months and older.
[caption id="attachment_29505" align="alignright" width="234"] Karen Brown MPS[/caption]
‘Even if they don't get sick enough to go to hospital, that parent doesn't have time to have a week off work to care for their child,’ she said.
While there has consistently been a focus on herd immunity and protecting those most vulnerable, the cost of living pressures has brought a new variable to the equation.
‘It’s always been about protecting grandma and grandpa, but now they realise, particularly if they know people who have had influenza, that if you have a really sick child for a week, it has a huge impact on your life.’
Ms Brown has been at the forefront of paediatric flu vaccination ever since Queensland allowed pharmacists to administer the vaccine to young children.
Her pharmacy has become a trusted destination for families due to its clear messaging and consistent availability.
‘We know what we're doing. We do every age group. There's no ‘will they won't they?’ They just know 7 days a week that they can walk in,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They know we'll always have the stock, we know the rules and the regulations, and they can walk in after school. We make it a really simple process.’
While infants and toddlers are a ‘piece of cake’ primary-school-aged children can be more challenging.
‘They know what's going on and they've got an opinion,’ she said.
But Brown and her team use a combination of humour, distraction and engagement to ease anxiety, with the pharmacy’s vaccination room decorated with caricatures of staff in a ‘Where’s Wally’-style poster to amuse their young patients
‘We’ll say to the kids, “Will I vaccinate you quicker than it takes for you to find my face?”’ she said.
Engaging children on their level is also crucial. “If they walk in with a superhero shirt on, you can say, “Who's your favourite superhero? What would Spider-Man do?’” she said.
Tackling rising needlephobia among children
While needlephobia is growing in prominence, there are ways to address, said Ms Brown – citing an example of a 6-year-old boy who was diagnosed with leukaemia 12 months earlier.
‘His mum gave us the heads up and said he is petrified of needles as a result of getting lots of chemo,’ she said.
In such cases, the key is to empower the child.
‘We said, “this is how it’s going to feel compared to having blood taken or having an infusion”. He also understood how important it was for him to get vaccinated to protect his immune system.’
Post-vaccination, it’s important to debrief with the child to prime them for the next time around.
[caption id="attachment_17706" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Children after receiving their vaccinations at TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills, Brisbane. (Image: Karen Brown MPS)[/caption]
‘For example, you could say “remember for next time that you didn’t even feel me do it, and it’s not as bad as you thought”.’
Building trust and long-term loyalty
Childhood vaccination can be a powerful tool for pharmacies to build community trust.
‘That vaccine experience is a very good way to breed loyalty,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They will be customers of yours ongoing.’
‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.'
karen brown MPS
For hesitant pharmacists, she recommends administering your first vaccination to a child you’re familiar with – whether a family friend, someone from the local sporting club or a staff member’s child.
‘It’s almost like a trial,’ she said. ‘For example with COVID-19 vaccinations during the pandemic, my kids who were 7 and 8 years old at the time brought all their friends in, so they all did it together.’
And from there, it just gets easier. ‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.’
There are several session dedicated to vaccination at PSA25, held in Sydney from 1–3 August. Register here to attend.
[post_title] => ‘Get the flu vaccine for your kids as soon as you can’ warns paediatrician
[post_excerpt] => Why this paediatrician is speaking out about low childhood vaccination rates as more kids become hospitalised.
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[post_content] => Years of calculating exact medication dosages mirror Depinder Chhibber’s meticulous approach in the MasterChef kitchen, where every gram and garnish matters under intense pressure.
Depinder Chhibber has had a busy few years since last appearing on season 13 of MasterChef Australia in 2021.
In between appearing as a special guest chef on MasterChef India in 2023 to becoming a mother to two girls – she has still found time to stick to her pharmacy roots.
Ms Chhibber has even changed practice settings, moving from community pharmacy to industry, and onto hospital pharmacy when travelling with her husband for work.
‘The greatest gift I've ever received from my pharmacy degree is being able to get a job anywhere in the world,’ she said. ‘When we travelled around rural Australia, I had a job literally everywhere I went, and I couldn't be more grateful that I could work and help in those communities.’
Last year proved to be one of the most challenging yet rewarding years for Ms Chhibber, who balanced part-time work as a pharmacist, full-time motherhood while launching her supper club Ghar in Newcastle, New South Wales.
Ghar, which translates directly to ‘home’ in Hindi, perfectly captures the vibe Ms Chhibber sought to create with her supper club.
‘The food I’m serving is a sneak peek into every household in India – but elevated,’ she said. ‘Patrons are served individual portions on the same long table. Everyone interacts, because Indian food is all about community, sharing, and eating with your family and friends.’
Now, she is battling it out once again in the kitchen on MasterChef Australia: Back to Win, which brought back 24 standout contestants from previous seasons to compete in advanced challenges, eliminations, and immunity tests for a second chance at the title.
‘Because I wasn't busy enough, I went out and got onto MasterChef again,’ she laughed.
While Ms Chhibber said the MasterChef kitchen has the ‘same energy’ this time around, the stakes have risen.
‘It's very different from the previous season, because we're competing with people who have been in the food industry for many years and the competition is super stiff,’ she said.
Australian Pharmacist sat down with Ms Chhibber to discuss how her years in pharmacy have primed her for the most competitive season of MasterChef yet.
Clinical calm under kitchen pressure
During Pressure Tests, which occur during Masterchef elimination rounds, contestants must replicate a detailed recipe exactly – measuring ingredients, using precise techniques and plating as instructed. They must complete this task within a strict time limit and without any outside references – with accuracy, taste and presentation determining who stays and who goes.
To get through these tough tests, Ms Chhibber draws on her experience in the demanding world of dispensing medicines in a busy pharmacy.
When you’re on national television, the ‘miss one step and you’re out’ dynamic of pressure tests can be highly stressful. So too can dispensing Schedule 8 medicines, when a slight error could be career- or life-ending.
‘When you do a pressure test, you are highly focused. As much as they say you need to do one step at a time, you really need to multitask and move super fast at all times – because if you don't, you're not going to get through the recipe,’ she said.
‘As a pharmacist, you've got to multitask and work around different teams and steps. You're doing so many things at the same time – checking a script, looking over who's coming into your store and what Schedule 3 [medicine] has been handed out.’
Pharmacists are ultimately responsible for what goes on in the pharmacy, much like in a pressure test.
‘You've got a gas stove with three burners going, and at the same time you’ve got something in the oven on the other side. Then, the judges come and have a chat with you,’ Ms Chhibber said. ‘Staying calm under pressure, which I’ve learned over the years as a pharmacist, has really helped me this time around.’
From drug compounds to unexpected ingredients
In a MasterChef Mystery Box Challenge, each contestant is given a sealed box containing a hidden set of ingredients – often chosen by a guest chef. They must create a complete dish using only those ingredients and a limited ‘underbench’ pantry within 75 minutes. Once time’s up, the dishes are presented to the judges, who evaluate them on creativity, technical execution and flavour – with the top performers either earning immunity or other advantages in subsequent rounds.
Contestants will face entirely unknown ingredients in the mystery box, so their palate and resourcefulness really come into play, Ms Chhibber said.
‘That's very similar to reading medicine labels, because there'll be some ingredients that we won't know or have never experienced. But then you consult formulary references or search for similar compounds, or a particular drug class or excipient,’ she said. ‘You rely back on the basics to get you through that particular challenge.’
Counselling skills at the judging table
When a dish is ready for tasting, contestants present it to the judges – providing a brief summary that includes the dish’s name, highlights key ingredients and techniques, and describes the intended flavours.
With Ms Chhibber presenting a lot of Indian dishes, she distills her explanation just as she would when counselling a patient on a medication’s mechanism and effects.
‘We talk about medical jargon in pharmacy, but there’s a lot of food-related jargon as well,’ she said. ‘So I’ve had to simplify things for the judges in terms of ingredients or techniques. They’ve got it every time, so I must be doing something right.’
Balancing pharmacy passion with culinary ambitions
Although some may assume Ms Chhibber plans to pursue cooking full-time, she will always work as a pharmacist – even if only a couple of days a week.
‘I worked really hard to get to the point where I was where I am now, and it’s very hard to let that go,’ she said.
She is keen, however, to offer cooking ‘masterclasses’, much like the training session she presented while working in industry as a Senior Medical Affairs associate
‘Towards the end of my time in the pharmaceutical industry, I was presenting at a lot of conferences and running training sessions for our representatives that were working out on the field,’ Ms Chhibber said.
‘I think that would really resonate with running cooking classes, because it’s explaining new things to people and teaching them from the very bottom to develop those skills.’
Much like the breakfast mixer she co-hosted with PSA’s very own Chris Campbell on the ‘11 secret ingredients to the evolving role of pharmacists’ at PSA22, Ms Chhibber plans to make it fun.
‘That was one of the best things I've ever done which I would love to do again. I don’t think there was anyone who wasn’t paying attention or having a good time,’ she said. ‘It’s good to spice things up to keep it interesting.’
New pharmacy horizons
In terms of pharmacy, Ms Chhibber is keen to get more involved in Opioid Dependence Treatment.
‘I’ve done a lot of methadone dosing, which I really like because we get to see the changes and development in patients over the years,’ she said.
This process can take longer in some patients, who may not know how to ask for help.
‘But if they can come to a pharmacy and receive non-judgemental care, that’s something I feel quite passionate about,’ Ms Chhibber said.
Since becoming a mum, she’s also keen to offer paediatric care.
‘Now I've got a lot of personal experience with children and treating them for simple things that you don’t always need a GP for, I'm always encouraging parents to bring their kids to us to see if we can do something,’ she said.
‘They'd rather come into a pharmacy so they can get care earlier than wait for hours in the emergency department.’
Now that Network 10 has just issued the casting call for the next season of MasterChef Australia, Ms Chhibber encourages any other budding pharmacist chefs who are interested in cooking to give it a go.
‘Fortunately I was in a situation where my managers were very supportive and were more excited than I was,’ she said. ‘If you’ve got the right support, good stability, and can afford to do it, it's definitely worth it.’
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[post_content] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide further around-the-clock access to pharmacist care and expert advice for the community.
Terry White Chemmart Hallett Cove was officially unveiled as a 24/7 pharmacy – joining three others in Adelaide to offer non-urgent care outside usual hours – by PSA SA/NT President Dr Manya Angley FPS, Premier Peter Malinauskas, Treasurer Stephen Mullighan, Health Minister Chris Picton, and Member for Black Alex Dighton.
‘You never know when you’ll need health advice, medicines or support, Dr Angley said. ‘Having 24-hour access to pharmacist advice is a game changer for so many South Australians … meaning more people can access pharmacist services, from treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, to palliative care medicines to mental health first aid.’
Terry White Chemmart Hallet Cove joins a number of pharmacies around Australia operating around the clock, including:
Australian Pharmacist spoke with three pharmacists from across Australia who provide 24/7 pharmacy care to highlight just how vital this service is for communities.
Jeremy Sparks, Pharmacist in Charge of National Pharmacies Norwood[/caption]
‘We’ve dispensed more than 19,000 prescriptions, facilitating timely access to time-sensitive [medicines] such as antibiotics and analgesics for recently discharged or diagnosed patients, or just helping people who didn't realise they were out of their regular medications until they went to reach for a pill that wasn't there,’ he said.
‘We’ve also fielded around 4,000 calls, with most calls seeking advice on medication interactions, general medicines advice e.g. how to take, when to take, and if they should be worried about adverse effects), and the wide range of minor ailments we see in pharmacies every day, including bites, burns, rashes, gastrointestinal upsets and nausea.’
The highest demand out-of-hours prescriptions include inhalers for respiratory conditions, antibiotics and pain relief.
‘We like to think that providing timely access to medicines and analgesia has helped to prevent infections from progressing, and prevent or treat asthma attacks to reduce the amount of people presenting to EDs for easily preventable causes,’ Mr Sparks said.
‘Just recently we had a new mum discharged from hospital with her baby, and a parent needing antibiotics for a child’s ear infection. These are both situations where prompt access to their prescriptions improved outcomes.’
The team also fields a high volume of patient queries on minor wounds.
‘They can dress these wounds or assess and give recommendations about whether a visit to the hospital is really necessary.’
One of Norwood’s pharmacists encountered one of the strangest nights at the 24/7 pharmacy, where three patients who had all been on a flight from Sydney which ran late came in at separate intervals during the night.
‘The pilot decided to take off quickly from Sydney so they wouldn't miss the Adelaide Curfew, which unfortunately resulted in all their luggage being left behind,’ he said.
‘The first patient came in with eScripts to fill, the second thankfully just needed contact solution and a toothbrush, and the third was an elderly man with his son who needed his medication but had no scripts.’
With a speedy referral to a telehealth service, the Doctor immediately sent through eScripts for the elderly patient’s blood pressure and glaucoma medications.
‘And we were able to get him sorted without any missed doses.’
Lachlan Menouhos, Pharmacist Manager of Chemistworks in Wetherill Park[/caption]
‘Once they know we're open and they can get scripts filled all hours of the night, people who have been discharged from hospital come from all over Sydney – from the city to Campbelltown, Camden and the North Shore,’ he said.
A key service the pharmacy fulfills is an over-the-phone triage service – typically for older patients who need medicines advice or abnormal symptoms.
‘They call back the next day and they say, “thank you for referring me to the ED. It was a stomach ulcer or elevated blood pressure”.’
In terms of foot traffic, families typically benefit from the late-night service.
‘We see a lot of sick children after hours,’ Mr Menouhos said. ‘Often it’s parents who have been working during the day and couldn’t get to the doctor. They will get nappies, formula, and children’s Panadol and Nurofen.’
The after-hours service is greatly valued by the community. In 2023, 553 Chemistworks Wetherill Park customers completed a survey, finding that:
Mohamed Bassuny MPS, former Pharmacist Manager Bendigo UFS After Hours Pharmacy [/caption]
‘We covered a large demographic area, seeing patients as far as 60–70 kilometers away,’ he said. ‘So we decided to extend hours of service for the community, particularly with both Urgent Care Clinics and EDs being functional. You have to have a point of access for medication for these two services.’
As a ‘full scope’ pharmacy, the team prescribes medicines for patients under the Victorian Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot, which was recently made permanent.
‘When patients experience a severe UTI, we could provide a consultation, and prescribe and dispense, as well as analgesia, so they could have relief overnight,’ Mr Bassuny said.
‘If the patient went to the ED, they would have to wait long hours and only be able to get their medication dispensed the next day – as there is no pharmacy operating in the hospital overnight.’
Sometimes, the care that late-night pharmacies provide is life saving.
‘I had a patient come in with symptoms of a stroke – including heartburn and a tingling in the left arm – and they didn't know what's going on,’ he said.
After triaging the patient, Mr Bassuny called an ambulance.
‘Often patients push through until the next morning – but this is a critical time and can mean the difference between life and death,’ he said. ‘The patient came at a later time to thank us and said, “If you hadn't done that, the situation would have been much more serious”.’
[post_title] => How 24/7 pharmacies help to fill after-hours health gaps
[post_excerpt] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide around-the-clock access to pharmacist care for the community.
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[post_content] => Five pharmacists have been recognised in the 2025 PSA Victorian Pharmacy Awards, presented on Saturday night as part of the Victoria and Tasmania Annual Therapeutic Update in Melbourne.
The awards, presented by PSA Victoria President Dr Amy Page FPS, recognise pharmacists with an outstanding commitment to excellence in pharmacy practice, who demonstrate exceptional leadership, and who champion patient care.
‘These awardees represent the very best of our profession, from innovators and educators, to advocates who are improving patient care through pharmacy,’ Dr Page said.
‘PSA is proud to recognise pharmacists who not only deliver exceptional care but also lead with vision and purpose. Their work is a testament to the vital role pharmacists play in improving the health of all Australians.’
PSA Victorian Pharmacist of the Year – Sara Murdock MPS
Ms Murdock MPS is recognised for her outstanding leadership in community pharmacy, with over 20 years of service in Pascoe Vale. Her work has significantly contributed to public health through the implementation of accessible vaccination clinics, wellness programs, and interprofessional education initiatives.
Ms Murdock established the first local community vaccination clinic at a neighbourhood house and led school-based immunisation programs, improving vaccination rates and public confidence in pharmacist-led care. She also partnered with local sporting clubs to deliver wellness programs that support preventative health, mental wellbeing, and injury recovery – broadening the role of pharmacy in community health.
Her commitment to collaborative care is evident in her regular health education seminars for allied health professionals and her close work with GPs and aged care providers to ensure coordinated, person-centred care. In aged care, she delivers medication reviews, engages with residents and families, and trains nursing staff to optimise medication safety.
Ms Murdock is also a dedicated mentor, supporting pharmacists and students through practical guidance and leadership. Her ability to balance business ownership, single parenthood, and professional advocacy reflects her resilience and commitment to the profession.
Through her charity work and long-standing involvement in Rotary, Ms Murdock continues to advocate for health equity and support vulnerable populations. Her work exemplifies the vital role of pharmacists in delivering accessible, community-focused healthcare.
PSA Victorian Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Dr Wejdan Shahin MPS
Ms Shahin is recognised for her significant contributions to medication safety, pharmacist education, and digital health innovation. As a PSA-credentialed pharmacist, she has delivered Residential Medication Management Reviews, supporting safe and effective medicine use for older Australians.
Her leadership in education is demonstrated through her active role in PSA’s intern training program, where she develops and delivers workshops that strengthen clinical decision-making, communication, and medicines management skills. As a lecturer at RMIT University, Ms Shahin has embedded real-world case scenarios and role-playing into her teaching, enhancing student engagement and preparing graduates for patient-centred practice.
Ms Shahin’s commitment to inclusive healthcare is evident in her development of a medication adherence app for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. This project, supported by a competitive grant, aims to improve health literacy, reshape illness perceptions, and empower patients in self-management, highlighting her innovative approach to digital health.
She also mentors early career pharmacists, contributing to their confidence and readiness for practice. Her work aligns closely with PSA’s mission to support the profession and improve health outcomes through pharmacist-led care.
PSA Victorian Intern Pharmacist of the Year – Katelyn Beattie
Ms Beattie has demonstrated exceptional initiative, clinical insight, and leadership early in her pharmacy career. Within the first few months of her internship, she has taken an active role in dispensary operations, stepping in to guide workflow when needed and consistently prioritising patient care. Her proactive approach to improving pharmacy processes, enhancing efficiency and allowing more time for patient-focused care.
Ms Beattie’s work in the Webster (DAA) room has deepened her understanding of medication reconciliation and clinical risk management. Working closely with the DAA pharmacist, she has developed the skills to identify potential medication-related risks and suggest safer alternatives, such as optimising administration times. Her contributions have directly supported pharmacists in delivering safer, more effective care.
She has also built strong rapport with regular patients, who now actively seek her out for medication advice. This trust reflects her ability to communicate clearly and compassionately, and her commitment to helping patients achieve better health outcomes.
As part of a weekly intern learning group, Ms Beattie actively engages in tutorials and case discussions, often researching clinical questions and sharing her findings with peers. Her enthusiasm for learning and collaboration highlights her potential as a future leader in the profession.
PSA Victorian Lifetime Achievement Award – Joe Demarte FPS
Mr Demarte is recognised for his decades-long contribution to pharmacy practice, professional leadership, and health policy advocacy. Since qualifying as a pharmacist in 1973, Mr Demarte has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving pharmacy services and advancing the profession in Victoria and nationally.
Early in his career, Demarte established a community pharmacy in Brunswick that served a culturally diverse population. He introduced bilingual prescription labelling in languages such as Greek, Italian, and Turkish, and employed multilingual staff to ensure patients received clear, culturally appropriate medication counselling. His pharmacy extended trading hours and collaborated closely with local healthcare providers, setting a strong example of community-responsive care.
Demarte’s leadership within the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has been extensive. As National President from 2015, he played a pivotal role in securing a significant increase in funding for pharmacist-delivered professional services under the 6th Community Pharmacy Agreement – from $600 million to $1.26 billion. He also chaired PSA’s National Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee and the 6CPA Working Group.
At the state level, Demarte served as President of PSA’s Victorian Branch, where he oversaw the passage of the Pharmacists Act 2004, a key legislative milestone for the profession. He also represented PSA on national and state working groups focused on the responsible supply of pseudoephedrine, successfully advocating for continued patient access through pharmacies while addressing concerns about diversion.
Demarte continues to practise as a community pharmacist and remains a respected voice in pharmacy policy and practice. His career reflects a deep commitment to patient care, professional standards, and the evolution of pharmacy as a vital part of Australia’s healthcare system.
PSA Victorian Pharmacist Medal – Linda Ha
The Victorian Pharmacist Medal recognises the excellent contribution of pharmacists at the grass-root level in improving health outcomes and the wellbeing of the general public. This award seeks to tell the stories of the vital work of the quiet achievers within the pharmacy profession.
Ms Ha is recognised for her work as an aged care pharmacist, where she has delivered meaningful improvements to the health and wellbeing of some of Victoria’s most vulnerable residents. As one of the first onsite pharmacists in aged care prior to government funding, Ms Ha has led practical, patient-focused initiatives that have enhanced medication safety, reduced polypharmacy, and improved quality of life.
At Lifeview, she introduced an electronic psychotropic medication register with automated alerts, a pharmacist-led care plan evaluation process, and a time-sensitive medication protocol for Parkinson’s disease – each tailored to meet the real-world needs of residents and staff. Her stewardship program has reduced unnecessary antibiotic use, and her leadership in the EMBRACE trial has helped embed national dementia care guidelines into daily practice.
Ms Ha’s collaborative approach, including education for nurses, GPs, and families, has strengthened the role of pharmacists in aged care. Her work exemplifies the vital, often unseen, contributions pharmacists make at the frontline of care.
[post_title] => Victorian pharmacists leading innovation and excellence
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[post_content] => Australian and indeed international pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and pharmacy practice innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025) in Louisville Colorado, USA.
Ross completed his pharmacy training in the late 1950s via the old apprenticeship and materia medica-based course at University of Sydney while working at Hallam’s ‘Chemists to Sydney since 1883’ Pharmacy in Pitt Street (with another of our pharmacy innovators Ted Crook of Chemdata fame) before moving to the Hunter Street Branch, and then managing the King’s Cross premises.
His early desire to make things better and easier for pharmacists in the practice of their profession saw Ross develop a unique algorithm-based stock control system to use in these pharmacies.
This desire for improvement both professionally and personally saw him become closely involved with both hospital pharmacy and higher learning, resulting in his doctorates in educational training and development areas. How he applied this knowledge to the pharmacy sector, especially community pharmacy, created the basis of his lifelong commitment to the improvement of pharmacy practice – both in Australia and internationally.
His completion of the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia Fellowship program kindled the flame of how this model could be applied to community pharmacy which, with the support of PSA led to the formation of the Australian College of Pharmacy Practice (ACPP) – with Ross being its ‘founding father’, Registrar and Dean. That the College will once again be back under the aegis of PSA was welcome news to Ross in his last days.
[caption id="attachment_29498" align="aligncenter" width="500"] L-R: Col (Rtd) Bill Kelly FPS, Dr Ross Holland AM FPS, Warwick Plunkett FPS and Peter Carroll FPS[/caption]
Ross’s vision of community pharmacists being able to undertake postgraduate studies in their chosen area of practice through distance learning created a wonderful opportunity undertaken by many in subsequent years, who were awarded Graduate Diplomas after having been subjected to the dreaded ‘Ross’s green pen’ marking comments.
The advent of remunerated medication reviews for pharmacists in Australia again saw Ross and ACPP come to the fore with specially developed training and education support programs. Likewise, the introduction and development of pharmaceutical care further cemented in place Ross’s vision of the expanded and rightful role of pharmacists in patient care – an area in which he contributed to extensively both nationally and internationally.
A prolific writer, Ross authored books on pharmacology and drug information, a wonderful series of journal articles (with his wife Christine) in the American Society of Health Systems Pharmacy journal on Transitions in Pharmacy Practice, as well as reviewing and editing numerous other works. His excellent work When to Refer published by PSA in 1999 was prescient – given that Australian pharmacists are now embracing a wider scope of practice.
Ross’s foray into the world of international pharmacy through both the International Federation of Pharmacy (FIP) and the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) saw his extensive contribution recognised with the awarding of his FIP Fellowship (2007) and the FAPA Ishidate Award (1988). His international training and development experience was also utilised to good effect with his involvement in Australian Government health-related aid programs in several South Pacific nations. He was also a past faculty member of the World Health Organization Regional Teacher Training Program, contributing to the development of clinical pharmacy in South Korea.
In recognition of his significant service to pharmacy practice, medical education and professional organisations, Ross was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2019 and was also made a Life Fellow of PSA – reflecting his enduring impact on the profession.
Ross was a true visionary in pharmacy and today’s pharmacists are benefitting greatly from his vision, energy and love of the profession to earn its rightful place in the delivery of patient care.
Ross is survived by his current wife, Christine, and children from his first marriage, Frederick, Adrienne, and Christopher. Ross is preceded in death by his first wife, Rosalind (Dec. 2001).
He leaves grandchildren and great grandchildren in Australia, an extended family in the US, and many loving friends, both within and outside of pharmacy.
[post_title] => Vale Dr Ross William Holland AM FPS
[post_excerpt] => Pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025).
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[post_content] => It’s no secret that Australia is bracing for one of the most intense influenza seasons in recent memory, with confirmed case numbers already reaching 89,165. And it’s not even winter yet – when influenza cases really start to take off.
Alarmingly, influenza vaccination is also at its lowest in some time, particularly among young children.
According to Dr Anthea Rhodes, paediatrician and Director of the Royal Children’s Hospital National Child Health Poll, the convergence of early flu activity and low vaccination rates is creating a perfect storm for severe illness and hospitalisation.
‘We were really struck, in the latest National Child Health Poll, how much confusion there still is among parents about whether or not it's recommended for kids [and] whether or not it's worthwhile,’ said Dr Rhodes on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne.
Why are the vaccination rates so low?
There has been an uptick in the number of children hospitalised for influenza in Victoria, Dr Rhodes said. But one of the most troubling revelations this season is the low rate of flu vaccination among children under 5 years of age, with just 13.9% of children in this age cohort receiving the vaccine.
‘As a community, we still think about flu as being an older person's illness,’ she said. ‘But in fact, younger kids, between 6 months and 5 years are the group second most likely to be hospitalised … with complications of flu.’
ONLY 3.9% of children < 5 years are up to date with flu vaccination.
Those complications include pneumonia – one of the leading causes of hospitalisation among Australian children.
Worryingly, many parents still view influenza as a mild illness in otherwise healthy kids, a perception Dr Rhodes says is both outdated and dangerous.
‘A third of parent respondents to the … poll indicated that they weren't aware that healthy kids can [get] seriously unwell from influenza,’ she said. ‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.’
Compounding the problem is a widespread misunderstanding about the need for annual vaccination.
‘Because the flu virus … keeps changing and moving around the world, we have to have a vaccine each year to get the best match for the strain that's in the community,’ Dr Rhodes said. ‘And people aren't aware of that.’
The National Child Health Poll also uncovered psychological barriers to vaccination, with rising rates of needle phobia among children.
‘We found that in children over 4, nearly a quarter are described as having a severe fear of needles, and 13% had parents tell us that’s the reason why they couldn't have the flu vaccine,’ Dr Rhodes said.
‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.'
DR ANTHEA RHODES
This fear often stems from a combination of anxiety and early negative experiences, such as those during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
‘Not everyone had a positive experience, [so] what we're seeing now is some of those kids coming back really fearful and avoiding having other vaccinations.’
Filling in childhood vaccination gaps
There is a naivety about the difference between a cold and the flu, said Karen Brown MPS, pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart in Arana Hills, Brisbane who regularly administers influenza vaccines to children 6 months and older.
[caption id="attachment_29505" align="alignright" width="234"] Karen Brown MPS[/caption]
‘Even if they don't get sick enough to go to hospital, that parent doesn't have time to have a week off work to care for their child,’ she said.
While there has consistently been a focus on herd immunity and protecting those most vulnerable, the cost of living pressures has brought a new variable to the equation.
‘It’s always been about protecting grandma and grandpa, but now they realise, particularly if they know people who have had influenza, that if you have a really sick child for a week, it has a huge impact on your life.’
Ms Brown has been at the forefront of paediatric flu vaccination ever since Queensland allowed pharmacists to administer the vaccine to young children.
Her pharmacy has become a trusted destination for families due to its clear messaging and consistent availability.
‘We know what we're doing. We do every age group. There's no ‘will they won't they?’ They just know 7 days a week that they can walk in,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They know we'll always have the stock, we know the rules and the regulations, and they can walk in after school. We make it a really simple process.’
While infants and toddlers are a ‘piece of cake’ primary-school-aged children can be more challenging.
‘They know what's going on and they've got an opinion,’ she said.
But Brown and her team use a combination of humour, distraction and engagement to ease anxiety, with the pharmacy’s vaccination room decorated with caricatures of staff in a ‘Where’s Wally’-style poster to amuse their young patients
‘We’ll say to the kids, “Will I vaccinate you quicker than it takes for you to find my face?”’ she said.
Engaging children on their level is also crucial. “If they walk in with a superhero shirt on, you can say, “Who's your favourite superhero? What would Spider-Man do?’” she said.
Tackling rising needlephobia among children
While needlephobia is growing in prominence, there are ways to address, said Ms Brown – citing an example of a 6-year-old boy who was diagnosed with leukaemia 12 months earlier.
‘His mum gave us the heads up and said he is petrified of needles as a result of getting lots of chemo,’ she said.
In such cases, the key is to empower the child.
‘We said, “this is how it’s going to feel compared to having blood taken or having an infusion”. He also understood how important it was for him to get vaccinated to protect his immune system.’
Post-vaccination, it’s important to debrief with the child to prime them for the next time around.
[caption id="attachment_17706" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Children after receiving their vaccinations at TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills, Brisbane. (Image: Karen Brown MPS)[/caption]
‘For example, you could say “remember for next time that you didn’t even feel me do it, and it’s not as bad as you thought”.’
Building trust and long-term loyalty
Childhood vaccination can be a powerful tool for pharmacies to build community trust.
‘That vaccine experience is a very good way to breed loyalty,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They will be customers of yours ongoing.’
‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.'
karen brown MPS
For hesitant pharmacists, she recommends administering your first vaccination to a child you’re familiar with – whether a family friend, someone from the local sporting club or a staff member’s child.
‘It’s almost like a trial,’ she said. ‘For example with COVID-19 vaccinations during the pandemic, my kids who were 7 and 8 years old at the time brought all their friends in, so they all did it together.’
And from there, it just gets easier. ‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.’
There are several session dedicated to vaccination at PSA25, held in Sydney from 1–3 August. Register here to attend.
[post_title] => ‘Get the flu vaccine for your kids as soon as you can’ warns paediatrician
[post_excerpt] => Why this paediatrician is speaking out about low childhood vaccination rates as more kids become hospitalised.
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[post_content] => Years of calculating exact medication dosages mirror Depinder Chhibber’s meticulous approach in the MasterChef kitchen, where every gram and garnish matters under intense pressure.
Depinder Chhibber has had a busy few years since last appearing on season 13 of MasterChef Australia in 2021.
In between appearing as a special guest chef on MasterChef India in 2023 to becoming a mother to two girls – she has still found time to stick to her pharmacy roots.
Ms Chhibber has even changed practice settings, moving from community pharmacy to industry, and onto hospital pharmacy when travelling with her husband for work.
‘The greatest gift I've ever received from my pharmacy degree is being able to get a job anywhere in the world,’ she said. ‘When we travelled around rural Australia, I had a job literally everywhere I went, and I couldn't be more grateful that I could work and help in those communities.’
Last year proved to be one of the most challenging yet rewarding years for Ms Chhibber, who balanced part-time work as a pharmacist, full-time motherhood while launching her supper club Ghar in Newcastle, New South Wales.
Ghar, which translates directly to ‘home’ in Hindi, perfectly captures the vibe Ms Chhibber sought to create with her supper club.
‘The food I’m serving is a sneak peek into every household in India – but elevated,’ she said. ‘Patrons are served individual portions on the same long table. Everyone interacts, because Indian food is all about community, sharing, and eating with your family and friends.’
Now, she is battling it out once again in the kitchen on MasterChef Australia: Back to Win, which brought back 24 standout contestants from previous seasons to compete in advanced challenges, eliminations, and immunity tests for a second chance at the title.
‘Because I wasn't busy enough, I went out and got onto MasterChef again,’ she laughed.
While Ms Chhibber said the MasterChef kitchen has the ‘same energy’ this time around, the stakes have risen.
‘It's very different from the previous season, because we're competing with people who have been in the food industry for many years and the competition is super stiff,’ she said.
Australian Pharmacist sat down with Ms Chhibber to discuss how her years in pharmacy have primed her for the most competitive season of MasterChef yet.
Clinical calm under kitchen pressure
During Pressure Tests, which occur during Masterchef elimination rounds, contestants must replicate a detailed recipe exactly – measuring ingredients, using precise techniques and plating as instructed. They must complete this task within a strict time limit and without any outside references – with accuracy, taste and presentation determining who stays and who goes.
To get through these tough tests, Ms Chhibber draws on her experience in the demanding world of dispensing medicines in a busy pharmacy.
When you’re on national television, the ‘miss one step and you’re out’ dynamic of pressure tests can be highly stressful. So too can dispensing Schedule 8 medicines, when a slight error could be career- or life-ending.
‘When you do a pressure test, you are highly focused. As much as they say you need to do one step at a time, you really need to multitask and move super fast at all times – because if you don't, you're not going to get through the recipe,’ she said.
‘As a pharmacist, you've got to multitask and work around different teams and steps. You're doing so many things at the same time – checking a script, looking over who's coming into your store and what Schedule 3 [medicine] has been handed out.’
Pharmacists are ultimately responsible for what goes on in the pharmacy, much like in a pressure test.
‘You've got a gas stove with three burners going, and at the same time you’ve got something in the oven on the other side. Then, the judges come and have a chat with you,’ Ms Chhibber said. ‘Staying calm under pressure, which I’ve learned over the years as a pharmacist, has really helped me this time around.’
From drug compounds to unexpected ingredients
In a MasterChef Mystery Box Challenge, each contestant is given a sealed box containing a hidden set of ingredients – often chosen by a guest chef. They must create a complete dish using only those ingredients and a limited ‘underbench’ pantry within 75 minutes. Once time’s up, the dishes are presented to the judges, who evaluate them on creativity, technical execution and flavour – with the top performers either earning immunity or other advantages in subsequent rounds.
Contestants will face entirely unknown ingredients in the mystery box, so their palate and resourcefulness really come into play, Ms Chhibber said.
‘That's very similar to reading medicine labels, because there'll be some ingredients that we won't know or have never experienced. But then you consult formulary references or search for similar compounds, or a particular drug class or excipient,’ she said. ‘You rely back on the basics to get you through that particular challenge.’
Counselling skills at the judging table
When a dish is ready for tasting, contestants present it to the judges – providing a brief summary that includes the dish’s name, highlights key ingredients and techniques, and describes the intended flavours.
With Ms Chhibber presenting a lot of Indian dishes, she distills her explanation just as she would when counselling a patient on a medication’s mechanism and effects.
‘We talk about medical jargon in pharmacy, but there’s a lot of food-related jargon as well,’ she said. ‘So I’ve had to simplify things for the judges in terms of ingredients or techniques. They’ve got it every time, so I must be doing something right.’
Balancing pharmacy passion with culinary ambitions
Although some may assume Ms Chhibber plans to pursue cooking full-time, she will always work as a pharmacist – even if only a couple of days a week.
‘I worked really hard to get to the point where I was where I am now, and it’s very hard to let that go,’ she said.
She is keen, however, to offer cooking ‘masterclasses’, much like the training session she presented while working in industry as a Senior Medical Affairs associate
‘Towards the end of my time in the pharmaceutical industry, I was presenting at a lot of conferences and running training sessions for our representatives that were working out on the field,’ Ms Chhibber said.
‘I think that would really resonate with running cooking classes, because it’s explaining new things to people and teaching them from the very bottom to develop those skills.’
Much like the breakfast mixer she co-hosted with PSA’s very own Chris Campbell on the ‘11 secret ingredients to the evolving role of pharmacists’ at PSA22, Ms Chhibber plans to make it fun.
‘That was one of the best things I've ever done which I would love to do again. I don’t think there was anyone who wasn’t paying attention or having a good time,’ she said. ‘It’s good to spice things up to keep it interesting.’
New pharmacy horizons
In terms of pharmacy, Ms Chhibber is keen to get more involved in Opioid Dependence Treatment.
‘I’ve done a lot of methadone dosing, which I really like because we get to see the changes and development in patients over the years,’ she said.
This process can take longer in some patients, who may not know how to ask for help.
‘But if they can come to a pharmacy and receive non-judgemental care, that’s something I feel quite passionate about,’ Ms Chhibber said.
Since becoming a mum, she’s also keen to offer paediatric care.
‘Now I've got a lot of personal experience with children and treating them for simple things that you don’t always need a GP for, I'm always encouraging parents to bring their kids to us to see if we can do something,’ she said.
‘They'd rather come into a pharmacy so they can get care earlier than wait for hours in the emergency department.’
Now that Network 10 has just issued the casting call for the next season of MasterChef Australia, Ms Chhibber encourages any other budding pharmacist chefs who are interested in cooking to give it a go.
‘Fortunately I was in a situation where my managers were very supportive and were more excited than I was,’ she said. ‘If you’ve got the right support, good stability, and can afford to do it, it's definitely worth it.’
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[post_content] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide further around-the-clock access to pharmacist care and expert advice for the community.
Terry White Chemmart Hallett Cove was officially unveiled as a 24/7 pharmacy – joining three others in Adelaide to offer non-urgent care outside usual hours – by PSA SA/NT President Dr Manya Angley FPS, Premier Peter Malinauskas, Treasurer Stephen Mullighan, Health Minister Chris Picton, and Member for Black Alex Dighton.
‘You never know when you’ll need health advice, medicines or support, Dr Angley said. ‘Having 24-hour access to pharmacist advice is a game changer for so many South Australians … meaning more people can access pharmacist services, from treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections, to palliative care medicines to mental health first aid.’
Terry White Chemmart Hallet Cove joins a number of pharmacies around Australia operating around the clock, including:
Australian Pharmacist spoke with three pharmacists from across Australia who provide 24/7 pharmacy care to highlight just how vital this service is for communities.
Jeremy Sparks, Pharmacist in Charge of National Pharmacies Norwood[/caption]
‘We’ve dispensed more than 19,000 prescriptions, facilitating timely access to time-sensitive [medicines] such as antibiotics and analgesics for recently discharged or diagnosed patients, or just helping people who didn't realise they were out of their regular medications until they went to reach for a pill that wasn't there,’ he said.
‘We’ve also fielded around 4,000 calls, with most calls seeking advice on medication interactions, general medicines advice e.g. how to take, when to take, and if they should be worried about adverse effects), and the wide range of minor ailments we see in pharmacies every day, including bites, burns, rashes, gastrointestinal upsets and nausea.’
The highest demand out-of-hours prescriptions include inhalers for respiratory conditions, antibiotics and pain relief.
‘We like to think that providing timely access to medicines and analgesia has helped to prevent infections from progressing, and prevent or treat asthma attacks to reduce the amount of people presenting to EDs for easily preventable causes,’ Mr Sparks said.
‘Just recently we had a new mum discharged from hospital with her baby, and a parent needing antibiotics for a child’s ear infection. These are both situations where prompt access to their prescriptions improved outcomes.’
The team also fields a high volume of patient queries on minor wounds.
‘They can dress these wounds or assess and give recommendations about whether a visit to the hospital is really necessary.’
One of Norwood’s pharmacists encountered one of the strangest nights at the 24/7 pharmacy, where three patients who had all been on a flight from Sydney which ran late came in at separate intervals during the night.
‘The pilot decided to take off quickly from Sydney so they wouldn't miss the Adelaide Curfew, which unfortunately resulted in all their luggage being left behind,’ he said.
‘The first patient came in with eScripts to fill, the second thankfully just needed contact solution and a toothbrush, and the third was an elderly man with his son who needed his medication but had no scripts.’
With a speedy referral to a telehealth service, the Doctor immediately sent through eScripts for the elderly patient’s blood pressure and glaucoma medications.
‘And we were able to get him sorted without any missed doses.’
Lachlan Menouhos, Pharmacist Manager of Chemistworks in Wetherill Park[/caption]
‘Once they know we're open and they can get scripts filled all hours of the night, people who have been discharged from hospital come from all over Sydney – from the city to Campbelltown, Camden and the North Shore,’ he said.
A key service the pharmacy fulfills is an over-the-phone triage service – typically for older patients who need medicines advice or abnormal symptoms.
‘They call back the next day and they say, “thank you for referring me to the ED. It was a stomach ulcer or elevated blood pressure”.’
In terms of foot traffic, families typically benefit from the late-night service.
‘We see a lot of sick children after hours,’ Mr Menouhos said. ‘Often it’s parents who have been working during the day and couldn’t get to the doctor. They will get nappies, formula, and children’s Panadol and Nurofen.’
The after-hours service is greatly valued by the community. In 2023, 553 Chemistworks Wetherill Park customers completed a survey, finding that:
Mohamed Bassuny MPS, former Pharmacist Manager Bendigo UFS After Hours Pharmacy [/caption]
‘We covered a large demographic area, seeing patients as far as 60–70 kilometers away,’ he said. ‘So we decided to extend hours of service for the community, particularly with both Urgent Care Clinics and EDs being functional. You have to have a point of access for medication for these two services.’
As a ‘full scope’ pharmacy, the team prescribes medicines for patients under the Victorian Community Pharmacist Statewide Pilot, which was recently made permanent.
‘When patients experience a severe UTI, we could provide a consultation, and prescribe and dispense, as well as analgesia, so they could have relief overnight,’ Mr Bassuny said.
‘If the patient went to the ED, they would have to wait long hours and only be able to get their medication dispensed the next day – as there is no pharmacy operating in the hospital overnight.’
Sometimes, the care that late-night pharmacies provide is life saving.
‘I had a patient come in with symptoms of a stroke – including heartburn and a tingling in the left arm – and they didn't know what's going on,’ he said.
After triaging the patient, Mr Bassuny called an ambulance.
‘Often patients push through until the next morning – but this is a critical time and can mean the difference between life and death,’ he said. ‘The patient came at a later time to thank us and said, “If you hadn't done that, the situation would have been much more serious”.’
[post_title] => How 24/7 pharmacies help to fill after-hours health gaps
[post_excerpt] => On 1 June 2025, Adelaide’s fourth 24/7 pharmacy opened to provide around-the-clock access to pharmacist care for the community.
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[post_content] => Five pharmacists have been recognised in the 2025 PSA Victorian Pharmacy Awards, presented on Saturday night as part of the Victoria and Tasmania Annual Therapeutic Update in Melbourne.
The awards, presented by PSA Victoria President Dr Amy Page FPS, recognise pharmacists with an outstanding commitment to excellence in pharmacy practice, who demonstrate exceptional leadership, and who champion patient care.
‘These awardees represent the very best of our profession, from innovators and educators, to advocates who are improving patient care through pharmacy,’ Dr Page said.
‘PSA is proud to recognise pharmacists who not only deliver exceptional care but also lead with vision and purpose. Their work is a testament to the vital role pharmacists play in improving the health of all Australians.’
PSA Victorian Pharmacist of the Year – Sara Murdock MPS
Ms Murdock MPS is recognised for her outstanding leadership in community pharmacy, with over 20 years of service in Pascoe Vale. Her work has significantly contributed to public health through the implementation of accessible vaccination clinics, wellness programs, and interprofessional education initiatives.
Ms Murdock established the first local community vaccination clinic at a neighbourhood house and led school-based immunisation programs, improving vaccination rates and public confidence in pharmacist-led care. She also partnered with local sporting clubs to deliver wellness programs that support preventative health, mental wellbeing, and injury recovery – broadening the role of pharmacy in community health.
Her commitment to collaborative care is evident in her regular health education seminars for allied health professionals and her close work with GPs and aged care providers to ensure coordinated, person-centred care. In aged care, she delivers medication reviews, engages with residents and families, and trains nursing staff to optimise medication safety.
Ms Murdock is also a dedicated mentor, supporting pharmacists and students through practical guidance and leadership. Her ability to balance business ownership, single parenthood, and professional advocacy reflects her resilience and commitment to the profession.
Through her charity work and long-standing involvement in Rotary, Ms Murdock continues to advocate for health equity and support vulnerable populations. Her work exemplifies the vital role of pharmacists in delivering accessible, community-focused healthcare.
PSA Victorian Early Career Pharmacist of the Year – Dr Wejdan Shahin MPS
Ms Shahin is recognised for her significant contributions to medication safety, pharmacist education, and digital health innovation. As a PSA-credentialed pharmacist, she has delivered Residential Medication Management Reviews, supporting safe and effective medicine use for older Australians.
Her leadership in education is demonstrated through her active role in PSA’s intern training program, where she develops and delivers workshops that strengthen clinical decision-making, communication, and medicines management skills. As a lecturer at RMIT University, Ms Shahin has embedded real-world case scenarios and role-playing into her teaching, enhancing student engagement and preparing graduates for patient-centred practice.
Ms Shahin’s commitment to inclusive healthcare is evident in her development of a medication adherence app for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. This project, supported by a competitive grant, aims to improve health literacy, reshape illness perceptions, and empower patients in self-management, highlighting her innovative approach to digital health.
She also mentors early career pharmacists, contributing to their confidence and readiness for practice. Her work aligns closely with PSA’s mission to support the profession and improve health outcomes through pharmacist-led care.
PSA Victorian Intern Pharmacist of the Year – Katelyn Beattie
Ms Beattie has demonstrated exceptional initiative, clinical insight, and leadership early in her pharmacy career. Within the first few months of her internship, she has taken an active role in dispensary operations, stepping in to guide workflow when needed and consistently prioritising patient care. Her proactive approach to improving pharmacy processes, enhancing efficiency and allowing more time for patient-focused care.
Ms Beattie’s work in the Webster (DAA) room has deepened her understanding of medication reconciliation and clinical risk management. Working closely with the DAA pharmacist, she has developed the skills to identify potential medication-related risks and suggest safer alternatives, such as optimising administration times. Her contributions have directly supported pharmacists in delivering safer, more effective care.
She has also built strong rapport with regular patients, who now actively seek her out for medication advice. This trust reflects her ability to communicate clearly and compassionately, and her commitment to helping patients achieve better health outcomes.
As part of a weekly intern learning group, Ms Beattie actively engages in tutorials and case discussions, often researching clinical questions and sharing her findings with peers. Her enthusiasm for learning and collaboration highlights her potential as a future leader in the profession.
PSA Victorian Lifetime Achievement Award – Joe Demarte FPS
Mr Demarte is recognised for his decades-long contribution to pharmacy practice, professional leadership, and health policy advocacy. Since qualifying as a pharmacist in 1973, Mr Demarte has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to improving pharmacy services and advancing the profession in Victoria and nationally.
Early in his career, Demarte established a community pharmacy in Brunswick that served a culturally diverse population. He introduced bilingual prescription labelling in languages such as Greek, Italian, and Turkish, and employed multilingual staff to ensure patients received clear, culturally appropriate medication counselling. His pharmacy extended trading hours and collaborated closely with local healthcare providers, setting a strong example of community-responsive care.
Demarte’s leadership within the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has been extensive. As National President from 2015, he played a pivotal role in securing a significant increase in funding for pharmacist-delivered professional services under the 6th Community Pharmacy Agreement – from $600 million to $1.26 billion. He also chaired PSA’s National Finance, Audit and Risk Management Committee and the 6CPA Working Group.
At the state level, Demarte served as President of PSA’s Victorian Branch, where he oversaw the passage of the Pharmacists Act 2004, a key legislative milestone for the profession. He also represented PSA on national and state working groups focused on the responsible supply of pseudoephedrine, successfully advocating for continued patient access through pharmacies while addressing concerns about diversion.
Demarte continues to practise as a community pharmacist and remains a respected voice in pharmacy policy and practice. His career reflects a deep commitment to patient care, professional standards, and the evolution of pharmacy as a vital part of Australia’s healthcare system.
PSA Victorian Pharmacist Medal – Linda Ha
The Victorian Pharmacist Medal recognises the excellent contribution of pharmacists at the grass-root level in improving health outcomes and the wellbeing of the general public. This award seeks to tell the stories of the vital work of the quiet achievers within the pharmacy profession.
Ms Ha is recognised for her work as an aged care pharmacist, where she has delivered meaningful improvements to the health and wellbeing of some of Victoria’s most vulnerable residents. As one of the first onsite pharmacists in aged care prior to government funding, Ms Ha has led practical, patient-focused initiatives that have enhanced medication safety, reduced polypharmacy, and improved quality of life.
At Lifeview, she introduced an electronic psychotropic medication register with automated alerts, a pharmacist-led care plan evaluation process, and a time-sensitive medication protocol for Parkinson’s disease – each tailored to meet the real-world needs of residents and staff. Her stewardship program has reduced unnecessary antibiotic use, and her leadership in the EMBRACE trial has helped embed national dementia care guidelines into daily practice.
Ms Ha’s collaborative approach, including education for nurses, GPs, and families, has strengthened the role of pharmacists in aged care. Her work exemplifies the vital, often unseen, contributions pharmacists make at the frontline of care.
[post_title] => Victorian pharmacists leading innovation and excellence
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[post_content] => Australian and indeed international pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and pharmacy practice innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025) in Louisville Colorado, USA.
Ross completed his pharmacy training in the late 1950s via the old apprenticeship and materia medica-based course at University of Sydney while working at Hallam’s ‘Chemists to Sydney since 1883’ Pharmacy in Pitt Street (with another of our pharmacy innovators Ted Crook of Chemdata fame) before moving to the Hunter Street Branch, and then managing the King’s Cross premises.
His early desire to make things better and easier for pharmacists in the practice of their profession saw Ross develop a unique algorithm-based stock control system to use in these pharmacies.
This desire for improvement both professionally and personally saw him become closely involved with both hospital pharmacy and higher learning, resulting in his doctorates in educational training and development areas. How he applied this knowledge to the pharmacy sector, especially community pharmacy, created the basis of his lifelong commitment to the improvement of pharmacy practice – both in Australia and internationally.
His completion of the Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia Fellowship program kindled the flame of how this model could be applied to community pharmacy which, with the support of PSA led to the formation of the Australian College of Pharmacy Practice (ACPP) – with Ross being its ‘founding father’, Registrar and Dean. That the College will once again be back under the aegis of PSA was welcome news to Ross in his last days.
[caption id="attachment_29498" align="aligncenter" width="500"] L-R: Col (Rtd) Bill Kelly FPS, Dr Ross Holland AM FPS, Warwick Plunkett FPS and Peter Carroll FPS[/caption]
Ross’s vision of community pharmacists being able to undertake postgraduate studies in their chosen area of practice through distance learning created a wonderful opportunity undertaken by many in subsequent years, who were awarded Graduate Diplomas after having been subjected to the dreaded ‘Ross’s green pen’ marking comments.
The advent of remunerated medication reviews for pharmacists in Australia again saw Ross and ACPP come to the fore with specially developed training and education support programs. Likewise, the introduction and development of pharmaceutical care further cemented in place Ross’s vision of the expanded and rightful role of pharmacists in patient care – an area in which he contributed to extensively both nationally and internationally.
A prolific writer, Ross authored books on pharmacology and drug information, a wonderful series of journal articles (with his wife Christine) in the American Society of Health Systems Pharmacy journal on Transitions in Pharmacy Practice, as well as reviewing and editing numerous other works. His excellent work When to Refer published by PSA in 1999 was prescient – given that Australian pharmacists are now embracing a wider scope of practice.
Ross’s foray into the world of international pharmacy through both the International Federation of Pharmacy (FIP) and the Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) saw his extensive contribution recognised with the awarding of his FIP Fellowship (2007) and the FAPA Ishidate Award (1988). His international training and development experience was also utilised to good effect with his involvement in Australian Government health-related aid programs in several South Pacific nations. He was also a past faculty member of the World Health Organization Regional Teacher Training Program, contributing to the development of clinical pharmacy in South Korea.
In recognition of his significant service to pharmacy practice, medical education and professional organisations, Ross was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2019 and was also made a Life Fellow of PSA – reflecting his enduring impact on the profession.
Ross was a true visionary in pharmacy and today’s pharmacists are benefitting greatly from his vision, energy and love of the profession to earn its rightful place in the delivery of patient care.
Ross is survived by his current wife, Christine, and children from his first marriage, Frederick, Adrienne, and Christopher. Ross is preceded in death by his first wife, Rosalind (Dec. 2001).
He leaves grandchildren and great grandchildren in Australia, an extended family in the US, and many loving friends, both within and outside of pharmacy.
[post_title] => Vale Dr Ross William Holland AM FPS
[post_excerpt] => Pharmacy has lost one of its true servants and innovators with the passing of Dr Ross Holland (6 May 1938 – 16 May 2025).
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[post_content] => It’s no secret that Australia is bracing for one of the most intense influenza seasons in recent memory, with confirmed case numbers already reaching 89,165. And it’s not even winter yet – when influenza cases really start to take off.
Alarmingly, influenza vaccination is also at its lowest in some time, particularly among young children.
According to Dr Anthea Rhodes, paediatrician and Director of the Royal Children’s Hospital National Child Health Poll, the convergence of early flu activity and low vaccination rates is creating a perfect storm for severe illness and hospitalisation.
‘We were really struck, in the latest National Child Health Poll, how much confusion there still is among parents about whether or not it's recommended for kids [and] whether or not it's worthwhile,’ said Dr Rhodes on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne.
Why are the vaccination rates so low?
There has been an uptick in the number of children hospitalised for influenza in Victoria, Dr Rhodes said. But one of the most troubling revelations this season is the low rate of flu vaccination among children under 5 years of age, with just 13.9% of children in this age cohort receiving the vaccine.
‘As a community, we still think about flu as being an older person's illness,’ she said. ‘But in fact, younger kids, between 6 months and 5 years are the group second most likely to be hospitalised … with complications of flu.’
ONLY 3.9% of children < 5 years are up to date with flu vaccination.
Those complications include pneumonia – one of the leading causes of hospitalisation among Australian children.
Worryingly, many parents still view influenza as a mild illness in otherwise healthy kids, a perception Dr Rhodes says is both outdated and dangerous.
‘A third of parent respondents to the … poll indicated that they weren't aware that healthy kids can [get] seriously unwell from influenza,’ she said. ‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.’
Compounding the problem is a widespread misunderstanding about the need for annual vaccination.
‘Because the flu virus … keeps changing and moving around the world, we have to have a vaccine each year to get the best match for the strain that's in the community,’ Dr Rhodes said. ‘And people aren't aware of that.’
The National Child Health Poll also uncovered psychological barriers to vaccination, with rising rates of needle phobia among children.
‘We found that in children over 4, nearly a quarter are described as having a severe fear of needles, and 13% had parents tell us that’s the reason why they couldn't have the flu vaccine,’ Dr Rhodes said.
‘Around half of serious cases are in previously completely well children. So this is a serious illness that can affect any child.'
DR ANTHEA RHODES
This fear often stems from a combination of anxiety and early negative experiences, such as those during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
‘Not everyone had a positive experience, [so] what we're seeing now is some of those kids coming back really fearful and avoiding having other vaccinations.’
Filling in childhood vaccination gaps
There is a naivety about the difference between a cold and the flu, said Karen Brown MPS, pharmacist at TerryWhite Chemmart in Arana Hills, Brisbane who regularly administers influenza vaccines to children 6 months and older.
[caption id="attachment_29505" align="alignright" width="234"] Karen Brown MPS[/caption]
‘Even if they don't get sick enough to go to hospital, that parent doesn't have time to have a week off work to care for their child,’ she said.
While there has consistently been a focus on herd immunity and protecting those most vulnerable, the cost of living pressures has brought a new variable to the equation.
‘It’s always been about protecting grandma and grandpa, but now they realise, particularly if they know people who have had influenza, that if you have a really sick child for a week, it has a huge impact on your life.’
Ms Brown has been at the forefront of paediatric flu vaccination ever since Queensland allowed pharmacists to administer the vaccine to young children.
Her pharmacy has become a trusted destination for families due to its clear messaging and consistent availability.
‘We know what we're doing. We do every age group. There's no ‘will they won't they?’ They just know 7 days a week that they can walk in,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They know we'll always have the stock, we know the rules and the regulations, and they can walk in after school. We make it a really simple process.’
While infants and toddlers are a ‘piece of cake’ primary-school-aged children can be more challenging.
‘They know what's going on and they've got an opinion,’ she said.
But Brown and her team use a combination of humour, distraction and engagement to ease anxiety, with the pharmacy’s vaccination room decorated with caricatures of staff in a ‘Where’s Wally’-style poster to amuse their young patients
‘We’ll say to the kids, “Will I vaccinate you quicker than it takes for you to find my face?”’ she said.
Engaging children on their level is also crucial. “If they walk in with a superhero shirt on, you can say, “Who's your favourite superhero? What would Spider-Man do?’” she said.
Tackling rising needlephobia among children
While needlephobia is growing in prominence, there are ways to address, said Ms Brown – citing an example of a 6-year-old boy who was diagnosed with leukaemia 12 months earlier.
‘His mum gave us the heads up and said he is petrified of needles as a result of getting lots of chemo,’ she said.
In such cases, the key is to empower the child.
‘We said, “this is how it’s going to feel compared to having blood taken or having an infusion”. He also understood how important it was for him to get vaccinated to protect his immune system.’
Post-vaccination, it’s important to debrief with the child to prime them for the next time around.
[caption id="attachment_17706" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Children after receiving their vaccinations at TerryWhite Chemmart Arana Hills, Brisbane. (Image: Karen Brown MPS)[/caption]
‘For example, you could say “remember for next time that you didn’t even feel me do it, and it’s not as bad as you thought”.’
Building trust and long-term loyalty
Childhood vaccination can be a powerful tool for pharmacies to build community trust.
‘That vaccine experience is a very good way to breed loyalty,’ Ms Brown said. ‘They will be customers of yours ongoing.’
‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.'
karen brown MPS
For hesitant pharmacists, she recommends administering your first vaccination to a child you’re familiar with – whether a family friend, someone from the local sporting club or a staff member’s child.
‘It’s almost like a trial,’ she said. ‘For example with COVID-19 vaccinations during the pandemic, my kids who were 7 and 8 years old at the time brought all their friends in, so they all did it together.’
And from there, it just gets easier. ‘Kid’s consults can be way more fun than the adult ones. You can have a really good time. Some of them can be really cheeky, funny, sassy, and you get a lot of reward out of it.’
There are several session dedicated to vaccination at PSA25, held in Sydney from 1–3 August. Register here to attend.
[post_title] => ‘Get the flu vaccine for your kids as soon as you can’ warns paediatrician
[post_excerpt] => Why this paediatrician is speaking out about low childhood vaccination rates as more kids become hospitalised.
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