Along with the panels, plenaries, and presentations, PSA delegates have a packed social calendar. This year’s conference offered attendees a rich variety of opportunities to network, reconnect and even party.
Naturally, Australian Pharmacist was there to capture the highlights.
‘The best people ever’
On Day 1, the Welcome Reception saw delegates come together on the exhibition hall floor for drinks and hors d’oeuvres amid the stalls and displays.
Tadiwa Chikosi, a community pharmacist attending PSA’s national conference for the first time, said it had been eye-opening to discover the opportunities that are available as a pharmacist.
‘Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming, and I think pharmacists, as a community, are generally the best people ever,’ she said. ‘You can do a lot within the pharmacy space, and I think a lot more people need to think that way.’
Following the reception, Ms Chikosi was one of the many delegates who headed to the Pumphouse Sydney for the convention’s Housewarming Party.
‘People were mingling around and chatting – just networking,’ said Kennith Lam. ‘You do get to know more about each other.’
Honouring fellows
Credentialed Consultant Pharmacist Sharon Doolan FPS was thrilled to have attended the conference’s fellowship dinner, where she was honoured for having achieved her fellowship.
‘It’s nice to be recognised for not only our contribution to the PSA but our contribution to our communities,’ she said.
‘It was a very special night, and I think PSA made the event extremely warm and inviting.’
Breakfast with the national president
Day two began with the PSA member breakfast, which welcomed the morning with food, coffee and an illuminating panel chaired by PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS.
Irfan Hashmi appreciated the chance to learn about PSA’s new president, Professor Mark Naunton MPS.
‘He is very passionate about the profession,’ Mr Hashmi said. ‘Questions and answers were put to him, and he was very excited to answer all those questions.’
And the festivities continue as delegates ready to head into day three. Ben Bach said he was looking forward to the evening’s gala dinner, where guests will enjoy a night of fine dining, entertainment, and connection under the theme ‘dress to impress’.
‘You get to network with lots of different pharmacists – not just pharmacists, but professionals in the industry – in a very casual setting, so you learn a lot about them and who they are as people,’ he said.
‘You also get a bit of an excuse to dress up, which is always nice. It’s good to let your hair down.’
