The award was presented to Mr Smirk at the 2025 Pharmacy WA Forum, held in Perth on August 7.
The prestigious award, presented only when an exceptional individual meets its high standards, honours the legacy of Kevin McAnuff -- a visionary pharmacist whose passion, leadership, and tireless advocacy transformed the role of community pharmacy in Australia.
“The award celebrates those who, like Mr McAnuff, embody excellence, commitment, and a deep sense of responsibility to both the profession and the public,” said Pharmacy Guild of Western Australia President Andrew Ngeow.
“Richard Smirk exemplifies these values in every respect.
With more than 43 years of experience as a community pharmacist, Richard’s contributions are as extensive as they are influential.
Pharmacy Guild of Western Australia President, Andrew Ngeow
Mr Smirk’s leadership journey began during his student years, where he served as President of the Western Australian Pharmacy Students' Association (WAPSA) and as Communications Officer on the National Australian Pharmacy Students’ Association (NAPSA) Committee.
His commitment to professional engagement continued as he took on the role of Editor of the PSWA’s Rescript magazine for some 13 years in the early 2000s, contributing valuable insights and fostering professional dialogue within the pharmacy community.
A former pharmacy proprietor and Guild member, Mr Smirk owned and operated three pharmacies for some 20 years.
“Richard has also contributed significantly to the development and regulation of the profession, serving as an examiner for a combined 25 years -- including 15 years for the Pharmacy Board of Australia and 10 years for PSWA/Pharmaceutical Council of WA,” said Mr Ngeow.
Mr Smirk currently serves as Chair of PSWA, where he has been a dedicated board member for more than 11 years.
“In addition, he plays a vital national role as Clinical Advisor, Pharmacy at the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and brings more than nine years of experience in health regulation to his current position in Perth.
“He has devoted countless hours of his time as a pharmacy owner, regulator, and governance leader to protect the community and foster the next generations of pharmacists.
“His integrity, expertise, and enduring service reflect the very spirit of the Kevin McAnuff Award.”
This award not only honours Mr Smirk’s exceptional career but also reaffirms the values that Kevin McAnuff championed: visionary leadership, tireless advocacy, and a lifelong commitment to improving the pharmacy profession for all Australians.
